Ddol Uchaf Nature Reserve
A former quarry, Ddol Uchaf is made up of a variety of habitats, including grassland, woodland, ponds, and river. The limestone soil supports a wide range of wildflowers, including kidney vetch and common-spotted orchid.
Springtime flowers carpet the woodland, which is made up predominantly of sycamore, ash, and willow. Residues of clay left behind from the quarrying of tufa helps to catch rainwater to form ponds, which are occupied by all 3 species of our native newt, Smooth, Palmate, and Greater Crested.
HOW THE SITE IS MANAGED
Woodland is managed by selective thinning, and the grassland is cut by hand, using scythes. Silt is removed from the ponds each year, and portions cleared, to ensure that the water is kept clean and open.
About us
DIRECTIONS
The reserve is located approx. 1 km east of Afonwen, on the A541 between Mold and Denbigh. Heading east, turn left off the A541 at Y Ddôl Chapel and follow the lane for 400m. Turn left at the junction – the entrance and car park are on the left opposite The Mill (SJ 142 713).
Know before you go…
Size – 4 hectares
Entry fee -No
Parking information – Small car park by the main entrance, additional parking 5 minutes walk away in lay by on A541
Grazing animals – No
Walking trails – A circular path around the reserve
Access -An easy gradient pathway to the east side of the reserve, though this can become muddy. The circular path around the reserve is mostly flat, easy walking but currently unsuitable for wheelchairs because of steps in some places. It can be wet and slippery after rain.
Dogs -On a lead
This reserve is in the care of The North Wales Wildlife Trust. For more information about this and other reserves in North Wales.
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