Dolaucothi parkland walk
A gentle stroll around the grounds of the Dolaucothi mansion, taking in a riverside walk and the main approach.
In spring the ground is carpeted with bluebells and in autumn this is a great place to find fungi.
Map
Start:
Dolaucothi Gold Mines car park, grid ref: SN662403
1
Cross the road from the car park and go through the gate into the clearing. You'll see lots of stumps in this area where trees have been felled. Native trees like birch, ash and oak will grow up here to replace them, changing this into a wonderful wood.
2
Follow the path. On your right you will see the beautifully tranquil Dolaucothi Estate Caravan Park.
Dolaucothi estate caravan park
Nestled in ‘Ogofau’ opencast pit; a landscape created by the Romans using nothing but the most primitive of hand tools. This caravan site is surrounded by history, geology, wildlife and wonderful scenery. The site is fondly referred to as one of the hidden gems of Carmarthenshire and a great place for a holiday escape.
3
Follow the path along by the River Gothi, looking out for kingfishers and otters which are sometimes seen on this stretch. Go through the gate onto the track and turn left, down to the bridge.
Ornamental bridge
Why would you build such a pretty bridge to take a farm track over the river? This used to be the east drive to Dolaucothi Mansion. The bridge was built to this pattern in 1836 to take pony traps and carriages, reminding visitors that they'd come to a fine estate.
4
Cross over the bridge and turn right through the gate, heading for the corner of the walled garden. Behind these massive stone walls is a grass paddock grazed by sheep. 200 years ago, though, it was an elegant garden, stocked with exotic plants, where the ladies of the house took their exercise.
5
Follow the path, keeping the walled garden to your right. There are all kinds of shrubs and conifers growing here, the remains of the garden that was here in the 1800s. Climb over the stile and carry on along the path.
6
Before you climb the next stile, can you spot the grotto amongst the tree roots? This too was part of the garden design. Go up the steps then turn left off the track onto a narrow path through the trees, above the river bank.
7
Follow the path to where it joins the main drive near the gateway to the road. The visitor centre (and toilet) is just along the road to your right. Here you can find out more about the area and the Dolaucothi Estate. Turn left at the junction to return to the Gold Mine car park.
End:
Dolaucothi Gold Mines car park, grid ref: SN662403
