Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre, near Aberystwyth
Red kite feeding, family fun and trails for walking,...
Black Covert Woodland, near Aberystwyth
Sheltered picnic site with riverside walk
What's here
The Birchgrove Walk is closed as the path is blocked by fallen trees.
Coronavirus update
Our sites and most visitor facilities are open but, under the current coronavirus restrictions in Wales, this is intended only for the use of people who live locally.
You are strongly advised – in line with current Welsh Government regulations – not to drive to any of our sites to exercise unless you have specific health or mobility issues.
We have changed the normal route for some of our trails to help you maintain social distancing – please follow signs on site.
Welcome
Black Covert is a peaceful spot by the River Ystwyth which flows through this steep sided valley on its way to Aberystwyth.
Black Covert got its name from the Trawsgoed (Crosswood) Estate it was once part of. A ‘covert’ is an area for raising game, probably pheasants here.
There is a picnic area within the shelter of large ash, birch and sweet chestnut trees and a wooden bench right by the crystal clear water.
The Riverside Walk is a short route through the beech woodland which is carpeted with bluebells in spring.
The Birchgrove Walk climbs its way up to the ancient hillfort of Allt-Fedw where there is a viewpoint overlooking rolling hills and valleys.
Walking trails
All of the walking trails are circular and are waymarked from the car park.
Riverside Walk
1½ miles, 2.7 kilometres, easy
This trail offers a gentle walk from the picnic site alongside the River Ystwyth.
It returns through the woodland which is filled with the scent of resin and swathes of bluebells in spring.
Birchgrove Walk
2.2 miles, 3.5 kilometres, moderate
The Birchgrove Walk passes a tranquil pond as it makes its way up to the 2000 year old hill fort of Allt-Fedw.
Here there is a viewpoint with panoramic views over rolling hills and valleys.
There are many long climbs and steep descents along this trail.
Closures and diversions
Please note:
- Sometimes we need to close or divert trails for your safety whilst we undertake maintenance work or forest operations
- Occasionally we may have to close a site in extreme weather, such as high winds or snow and ice due to the risk of injury to visitors or staff
- Please always follow any instructions onsite and make sure you follow any temporary diversion signs in place
How to get here
Location
Black Covert is 9 miles south east of Aberystwyth.
It is in the county of Ceredigion.
Parking is free of charge.
Directions
Take the B4340 from Aberystwyth to Trawsgoed. After going through Abermagwr, turn right over the bridge (signed Llanilar B4575) then turn immediately left and left again into the car park.
Ordnance Survey map
Black Covert is on Ordnance Survey (OS) map 213.
The OS grid reference is SN 667 729.
Public transport
The nearest train station is in Aberystwyth.
The bus service from Aberystwyth to Tregaron via Pontrhydfendigaid stops near Black Covert car park.
For details of public transport visit the Traveline Cymru website.
Contact details
Tel: 0300 065 3000
Email: enquiries@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk
Downloads
Related document downloads
Location map
PDF [163.7 KB]
