Discover Clyro: Nature, Trails and History

Clyro lies within a registered historic landscape. An ancient route connecting Inner Wales with England also passed through the village. The historic landscape places Clyro within a historic landscape area, while the route tells the story of a connection between two regions. As you explore the village’s history, these two themes offer different perspectives: the landscape setting and journeys made in the past.

Historical traces in Clyro

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 around 50 metres across in the other direction. These approximate measurements refer to the summit, not the entire site. This gives a clearer idea of the size described: it is the area at the top of the castle mound.

Clyro Court Farm is also home to a prehistoric chambered tomb made of upright stone slabs. It complements the medieval castle monument with evidence from prehistoric times. Historically, these represent two different periods: the prehistoric tomb and the medieval castle site. Visitors interested in archaeology can consider these distinct eras as separate topics.

Cwm Byddog: Woodland and Nature Conservation

Cwm Byddog is a wooded valley with ancient oaks that have been pollarded. A profusion of colourful flowers appears in spring. The woodland is of international importance because of the age of its trees. Conservation work is aimed at enabling the nationally rare hazel dormouse to survive there. The spring flowers and ancient trees therefore represent two different aspects of nature: the distinctive springtime scenery and the woodland’s ecological importance.

A natural trail leads through the trees and across the stream in the nature reserve. From Clyro, take 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 latest information before setting out.

Walking routes and their starting points

The two walking routes differ mainly in their starting points and waypoints. Route No. 1 starts at Clyro Post Office, passes Clyro Brook and is two miles long. Route No. 2 starts at Clyro Church and passes Lower House Farm and Court Evan Gwynne; it is also two miles long. Their equal distance makes a direct comparison possible, while their starting points and named places distinguish the routes. You can use the respective starting points and waypoints to help you find your way. Conditions on the walking routes can change; check them before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Sarn, Llanwern, Llangorse, Llanwddyn, Mochdre, Newbridge On Wye, Trecastle, Builth Wells

For the broader travel overview: Powys.