A Walk in the Ystwyth Valley.

After last night's gale this morning it was at least dry though there was a cold wind blowing from the north-west. We all made sure to be wrapped up warmly on our walk only to discover that with the sun shining and in the shelter of the trees it was in fact rather warm for most of our walk.

Today's route took us along the River Ystwyth and along the lush valley through what was once the estate of Trawscoed Mansion (more info to follow).

As we walked through the woodland  we kept getting glimpses of the river. It was easy to see why the local kayaking club use this part of the river for white water training though other parts looked tranquil and perfect for a spot of paddling in warmer weather.

Unlike last week there was not too much mud to contend with even when we crossed small streams making their way towards the river.

Eventually we crossed the river across the metal Llanilar suspension bridge which was great fun. I was the last person crossing and it was hard to resist bouncing up and down to make the bridge swing and sway but resist I did as there were some members of our group whom I don't think would have appreciated that.

Once over the bridge we began heading back on the other side of the valley stopping for lunch at a well appointed football field in Llanilar. 

From there we walked along stony farm tracks, no mud! past undulating fields with dramatic single oak trees no doubt planted by a past owner of the Trawscoed estate.

In the distance we could see the grand Trawscoed Mansion which was the former seat of the Earls of Lisburne whose family the Vaughans had owned the estate since the 1200's. (More info to follow).

Eventually reaching an avenue of magnificent trees (poplars?) and back to the road which soon led us to the car park in the woods where our cars were parked.

At the end of the avenue smoke was rising from the chimney of the former lodge house.

More photos to come in the week.