Coed-y-Cerrig National Nature Reserve

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Overview

The varied ancient semi-natural woodland of the Coed-y-Cerrig NNR north of Abergavenny contains magnificent beeches, bluebells and butterflies. The wet woodland area at the bottom of the valley is populated mainly by alder and willow, while on the drier soil of the slopes, ash and hazel flourish. Beech, oak and small-leaved lime dominate the hilltop. Although the wet woodland covers a small area, it is considered to be one of the best examples of an alluvial forest in the UK. Wildflowers include yellow pimpernel, herb Paris, wood anemone, bluebells, primroses, lords-and-ladies, nettle-leaved bellflower and early purple orchid. Hazelnuts scattered across the forest floor indicate the presence of dormice, which nest either in dense undergrowth, holes in trees or in boxes specially put up for the purpose. A good range of birds can be seen including woodland warblers and woodpeckers. Numerous butterfly species have been noted here, including the rare silver-washed fritillary.

Location

Stanton

About the area

In their bid to control the borderlands of Monmouthshire – also known as the Marches – the Normans built a triangle of castles: Grosmont, Skenfrith and White. At first, they were simple wooden structures strengthened by earthworks, but when the lively Welsh refused to stop attacking them, it was decided more permanent fortresses were needed.