A medieval castle mound, a wooded valley and two walks of equal length give Clyro a range of starting points for a trip focused on nature and history. Clyro Castle is an archaeological monument, while Cwm Byddog brings together woodland, a stream and spring flowers. There are also two walks with different starting points and landmarks.
Clyro Castle and the historic landscape
Clyro Castle is a designated medieval motte-and-bailey monument. The summit of the castle mound measures about 60 metres from northeast to southwest and approximately 50 metres across. Its greater extent therefore follows the northeast–southwest axis; the second measurement describes the cross-axis. The term “motte-and-bailey monument” draws attention to the site’s form: the castle mound and the ditch. This makes it possible to place the monument in context both by period and by its approximate dimensions.
An ancient route connecting inland Wales with England passed through Clyro. This is a different historical point of reference from the individual monument: the route describes a connection through Clyro. The village is also within the registered historic landscape. Together, these connections range from the castle mound and an earlier route to the landscape in which Clyro lies.
Cwm Byddog: woodland, stream and spring flowers
The wooded valley of Cwm Byddog is characterised by old oaks that have been pollarded and a colourful display of flowers in spring. The woodland is of international significance because of the age of its trees. At the same time, the nature reserve is managed to help the nationally rare dormouse survive there. These details highlight two different ecological aspects: the old trees and management focused on protecting a particular species.
A natural trail leads through the trees and across the stream in the nature reserve. Woodland and water are therefore part of the same route. From Clyro, you can reach Cwm Byddog via the signposted road to Newchurch. After half a mile, turn right; the entrance is immediately on the left. Road and trail conditions can change; check the guidance before your visit.
Two walks with different landmarks
Walk No. 1 is a two-mile walking route from Clyro Post Office via Clyro Brook. Walk No. 2 starts at Clyro Church, passes Lower House Farm and Court Evan Gwynne, and is also two miles long. The stated distance is the same for both, so the main points of comparison are the starting points and landmarks. Clyro Brook is part of the first route description, while the second names the church, farm and Court Evan Gwynne as reference points. Conditions can change, so check the latest guidance before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Presteigne, Llanwrtyd Wells, Llanidloes, Libanus, Cwm-twrch Uchaf, Van, Knighton, Church Stoke
For the wider travel overview: Powys.
