I picked up this book a few years ago hoping it would contain information about the village and local woodlands. There isn’t much about Tongwynlais but it’s a fascinating read.

1961

Glamorgan Forests – Forestry Commission Guide

Glamorgan Forests is a comprehensive guide that covers the woodlands, plants and animals of the area. It was edited by Herbert L. Edlin, who was the Publications Officer for the Forestry Commission.

The book is a collection of works from various academics, numerous photographs and some useful Welsh translations.

The front and back inside covers contain beautiful illustrated maps of forests in Wales, England and Scotland. Several sections also include a charming drawing to accompany the text.

Forestry Commission

The Forestry Commission was merged into Natural Resources Wales in 2013. They manage Fforest Fawr, a popular destination for locals and visitors. This general area is called “Coed Caerdydd” in the book, a name that’s being used today for a tree planting project in Cardiff.

Coed Caerdydd

“It is unusual for cities to rub shoulders with forests. Yet on the outskirts of Cardiff – and within half an hour’s journey of the City Centre – the Forestry Commission has charge of a number of small scattered woodlands which together form the forest known as Coed Caerdydd.

“The first acquisitions of land for this forest were made in 1952, and progressively since then additions have been made until the total area now stands at 1,350 acres. The major sections of Coed Caerdydd comprise the Castell Coch woods near Tongwynlais some five miles north-west of Cardiff, the Cwrt yr Ala woods near Dinas Powis some four miles south-west of Cardiff, and the Wenvoe Castle Estate woodlands which lie between Barry and Wenvoe some six miles south-west of Cardiff.

“A special feature of all these woods is the high proportion of broad-leaved trees, including beech, oak, sycamore and ash, which are being grown; and where soil and other conditions are favourable and where amenity is an important consideration, the Commission will continue to plant these broadleaved species either pure in small groups or in mixture with conifers such as Japanese larch, Norway spruce or Scots pine.”

“In Castell Coch there are also many green rides open to the public; and a most enjoyable, but hilly, three mile walk may be made starting from the castle itself, following a circular route through the plantations past the Blue Pool and ancient earthworks, and finishing up again at the castle.”

Fforest Ganol and Cwm Nofydd

Fforest Fawr is very well known but Fforest Ganol and Cwm Nofydd are often overlooked. Both are owned and managed by Cardiff Council.

2026

North Cardiff Woodlands Project

The North Cardiff Woodlands Project is a partnership between Cardiff Council, Natural Resources Wales and the Wildlife Trust South & West Wales. They are working with user groups and local communities to restore the woods, while ensuring appropriate and safe access for everyone.

The North Cardiff Woodlands are a special place for both nature and humans. This project is about both thriving together. The woods are home to sensitive species and habitats and provide space for people to connect with nature and leave the city behind.

North Cardiff Woodlands Project

There’s an upcoming public event where you can meet the Community Ranger and find out more about the project. The event is from 7pm on 15th June 2026 at Pentyrch Rugby Club.