Walking – The Arch
Length: Various
Time: Various
Start: Forestry Commission Car Park (Free)
Finish: Forestry Commission Car Park (Free)
Rating: Easy To Medium
The Arch is a historic stone archway which now stands by itself a few miles east of Devil’s Bridge. The Arch was erected in 1810 by local land owner Thomas Johnes, who also owned the nearby Hafod Estate in celebration of the Golden Jubilee of King George III.
As well as a picnic area, there are a total of 3 well sign posted circular walks which all start and end in the car park. The circular trails take in the beautiful woodland and picturesque views of the Cambrian Mountains, and are all well looked after by the Forestry Commission.
Although it is only 30 minutes from Aberystwyth by car, The Arch remains relatively quiet throughout the year, even at peak times and offers a relaitvely peaceful and tranquil environment for all the family to enjoy.
Walks at The Arch include:
The Panorama Walk:
A short but breath taking walk which offers wonderful views of the surrounding hills and mountains, which can be enjoyed from a conveniently placed bench half way round!
Ancient Beech Trail:
A slightly longer walk which takes in the magnificent 200 year old beech trees planted by Thomas Johnes. The trees are home to a range of less common bird life, and you can regularly see red kites magestically soaring overhead. Thomas Johnes carried out huge landscaping and woodland planting projects in the area between 1780 and 1813 to make it the beautiful place that it is today.
The Woodland Trail:
Another wonderful circular walk though the trees, which takes in even more species of tree and bird, all who call this place their home. Bird species include Kestrel, Redpoll, Sparrowhawk and Long-tailed Tits and once again, the wonderful Red Kites.
And if you’re still in the mood for more, why not visit the beautiful Hafod Estate which is only two miles further inland. For more information onthe Hafod Estate, please see our guide.
