The Wern

From sweeping views over the Monnow Valley to microcosms of plants and minibeasts living on the dry stone walls, there’s a lot to discover at this reserve.

Location

Craig-y-Dorth
Monmouth
A static map of The Wern

Know before you go

Size
3 hectares
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Entry fee

No
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Parking information

There is a very small lay-by at the entrance to the reserve (grid ref: SO 485 087).

Walking trails

The reserve lies on a steep slope. There are well used footpaths including a public footpath leading from the reserve entrance.

Access

The site is on a steep slope.

Dogs

Dogs permitted

When to visit

Opening times

Open at all times

Best time to visit

All year

About the reserve

The different habitats on this reserve include bracken-covered slopes, with areas of open woodland and scattered mature silver birch and yew trees, and a small area of heathland. The archaeological features of this reserve now provide important homes for plants and animals too. Dry stone walls form boundaries around the reserve and an old millstone outcrop and quarry lies within the reserve.  

The stone walls at the reserve are particularly important for lichens, mosses and ferns. They are also a valuable refuge for invertebrates, such as spiders and snails, and reptiles, such as common lizards and adders, which use them for hibernation, feeding and resting. 

Directions
By car
Follow the B4293 south from Monmouth for approximately
4 km. Take a right-turn, signposted Craig y Dorth, onto a road which goes steeply downhill. Continue down this road, passing the telephone box at Troy View Farm, and approximately 1 km further on, opposite a right-hand turn just past Little Wern, you will reach a footpath sign on the left with a very small lay-by / parking area. The entrance to the reserve is located here (grid ref: SO 485 087).

Near the reserve
New Grove Meadows, Pentwyn Farm, Wyeswood Common and Prisk Wood all lie to the north and west of the reserve.

Public footpaths are located in the surrounding countryside.

Contact us

Gwent Wildlife Trust
Contact number: 01600 740600
Contact email: info@gwentwildlife.org