The Arch, near Aberystwyth
Walks through huge beech trees with views over...
Black Covert is a peaceful spot by the River Ystwyth which flows through this steep sided valley on its way to Aberystwyth.
It got its name from the nearby Trawsgoed (Crosswood) Estate it was once part of - a ‘covert’ is an area for raising game, in this case most likely pheasants.
The Ystwyth Riverside Walk is an easy trail through the beech woodland which is carpeted with bluebells in spring.
The more strenuous Birch Grove Woodland Walk goes up to a viewpoint on a 2000 year-old hillfort.
There’s also a short trail for horseriders.
The picnic area is within the shelter of large ash, birch and sweet chestnut trees.
The walking trails are waymarked from start to finish.
Look out for the information panel at the start of the trails.
Find out about walking trail grades.
This trail offers a gentle walk alongside the river Ystwyth, returning through woodland filled with the scent of resin.
Bluebells carpet the ground under the beech trees in spring and there are lots of fungi in the autumn.
You may even catch the lightning streak of a kingfisher hunting along the river.
The trail passes an attractive pond and climbs up to the 2000 year-old hillfort of Allt Fedw.
There is a bench at the viewpoint from where you can take in panoramic views across rolling hills and valleys all the way to Mid Wales’ highest mountain, Pumlumon.
Enjoy a variety of surfaces, woodlands and open areas and take in distant views beyond the woodland.
Sometimes we need to close or divert trails for your safety whilst we undertake maintenance work or other operations.
We may have to close a site in extreme weather, such as high winds or snow and ice, due to the risk of injury to visitors or staff.
Please always follow any instructions on site and any temporary diversion signs.
Black Covert is 9 miles south east of Aberystwyth.
It is in the county of Ceredigion.
Black Covert is on Ordnance Survey (OS) Explorer map 213.
The OS grid reference is SN 667 729.
Take the B4340 from Aberystwyth to Trawsgoed.
After going through Abermagwr, turn right over the bridge (signed Llanilar B4575) then turn immediately left and left again into the car park.
The nearest mainline railway station is in Aberystwyth.
For details of public transport visit the Traveline Cymru website.
Parking is free of charge.
Overnight parking is not permitted.
There are no staff at this location.
Contact our customer team for general enquiries during office hours, Monday to Friday.