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19. The Byddwn Nature Reserve

This small nature reserve, which gives excellent views of the Brecon Beacons, is a section of the former Brecon to Merthyr railway line. Originally built as the Brecon to Hay-on-Wye tramroad, it became a railway in 1864. The line closed in 1964 and became a nature reserve in 1980.

What to look out for:

To the left of the flower-rich grassland at the site entrance is a row of trees that include oak, beech, wych elm and mountain ash. The woodland beyond contains a pond that is home to both common frogs and toads.

The disused railway is an important feature in the landscape for commuting and foraging bats, including the rare lesser horseshoe bat.

In the spring and summer the repetitive call of the chiffchaff, the musical warble of the blackcap and the soft, descending call of the willow warbler can be heard.

How to get there:

From Brecon follow the A40 east for 2 miles, and turn left, then right for Groesffordd. Just before entering Groesffordd turn right again for Llanfihangel Tal-y-llyn. After half a mile, a wide verge on the right indicates the starting point for foot access. Proceed through the left hand gate and walk along the disused railway line for half a mile until you come to the reserve entrance gate.

Nearest town: Groesffordd. Post code LD3 7SU.

OS map sheet 160. Grid reference SO 087 277

Accessing the Reserve:

The reserve is an open access reserve, you are allowed to visit the reserve on foot for your quiet enjoyment of the wildlife present. Please keep dogs under close control.

A path runs the length of the reserve along the old railway bed.

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Good views of the Brecon Beacons can be had from the reserve

Click on image for a larger view Knapweed provides a splash of purple in the flower-rich grassland


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