Historic background

This large area contains little in the way of historical character. Its underlying, rocky nature has meant that it was formerly ‘waste’ and was never improved, and although it contains two upland farms these are 19th century in date and probably relate to the period when the field walls were erected. The eastern side of the area is covered by 20th century pine forest, although there is some ancient woodland (Coed Cae-yn-y-coed) on the northern slopes above the Dwyryd and up into Ceunant Llenyrch. Llyn Tecwyn Uchaf is a 20th century reservoir in the centre of the area.

Key historic landscape characteristics

Drystone walls, forestry, reservoir

The area is divided almost into half by current land-use practices, although the underlying geology (and pre-20th century forestry historic features) mean it can be treated as one. The western part is still open, showing the rocky mountain land, crossed by a few straight (19th century) drystone walls, and containing two small upland farmsteads (see photograph). The area has never been agriculturally improved (there is too little soil anyway), although a number of sheepfolds show that it continues to be grazed. There is also a large, artificial reservoir here connected with domestic water supply.

The eastern part of the area is covered by 20th century forestry (probably planted in the 1950s), under which lies a continuation of the drystone walling. It surrounds an area of semi-natural woodland which covers the steep, north-facing hill slope above the Dwyryd. Apart from this wood, there is little of historical interest here.

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