The Arch, near Aberystwyth
Walks through huge beech trees with views over...
Black Covert, near Aberystwyth
What's here
The Birch Grove Walk is closed as the path is blocked by fallen trees.
Welcome
Black Covert is a peaceful spot by the River Ystwyth which flows through this steep sided valley on its way to Aberystwyth.
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.
Black Covert was once part of the nearby Trawsgoed (Crosswood) Estate and a covert is an area for raising game, probably pheasants here.
Walking trails
The walking trails are waymarked from start to finish.
Look out for the information panel at the start of the trails.
Find out about walking trail grades.
Riverside Walk
- Grade: Easy
- Distance: 1½ miles/2.7 kilometres
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.
Birch Grove Walk
- Grade: Moderate
- Distance: 1¾ miles/2.8 kilometres
- Trail information: There are many long climbs and steep descents along this trail.
The Birch Grove 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.
Closures and diversions
Sometimes we need to close or divert trails for your safety whilst we undertake maintenance work or other operations.
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 on site and any temporary diversion signs.
How to get here
Location
Black Covert is 9 miles south east of Aberystwyth.
It is in the county of Ceredigion.
Ordnance Survey map
Black Covert is on Ordnance Survey (OS) Explorer map 213.
The OS grid reference is SN 667 729.
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.
Public transport
The nearest mainline railway station is in Aberystwyth.
For details of public transport visit the Traveline Cymru website.
Parking
Parking is free of charge.
Overnight parking is not permitted.
Contact details
There are no staff at this location.
Contact our customer team for general enquiries during office hours, Monday to Friday.
Related document downloads
Black Covert site information
PDF [789.9 KB]
Other places in Mid Wales
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