Craig y Parcau Local Nature Reserve
At over three point two hectares, Craig-y-parcau is an oak and ash woodland on a steep slope of the Ogmore River. It is a haven for wildlife with several footpaths. We manage it so the local community can access nature.
Paths in Craig-y-Parcau
There is a circular walk of about three quarters of a mile. It is quite flat in parts but does require you to use steps. Sections are muddy and uneven. Look for the ‘robin waymarkers’ which will help to guide you round.
The top path through the woods is part of the River Ogmore and Merthyr Mawr Circular Walk, which you could continue on with.
Plant species:
- ash
- bluebell
- hartstongue fern
- herb robert
- lesser celandine
- sessile oak
- wood anemone
- wood sorrel
- yellow archangel
Animal species:
- blue tit
- chiff chaff
- Daubenton’s bat
- green woodpecker
- kingfisher
- otter
- robin
- tree creeper
- willow warbler
Otter spotters should look out for their oily droppings which are usually on a prominent stone near the riverbank where they are likely to nest.
If you spot these or other species here, please take a photo and show us via social media.
Nature keeper statue
This park features the Keeper of the Ogmore.
Local history
The wood is close to ‘The Dancing Stone’. Its legend is that when the cock crows on Christmas morning, the ancient stone dances down to the river for a wash.
Location:
Public car parks are available in Bridgend town centre, which is a few hundred metres from the wood.
Volunteer or take a school trip here
If you want to help this site, make an educational visit, or do countryside volunteering in general, please contact us.
Contact
Bridgend County Borough Council
Email:
Biodiversity@bridgend.gov.uk