Dinefwr Park wildlife walk
This 3-mile circular walk takes in some of the great wildlife-spotting places in Dinefwr’s historic parkland, famed for its abundance of wildlife and stunning valley views, as well as a medieval castle and 17th-century mansion. Some of the 'veteran' trees are thought to be more than 700 years old and support such a high diversity of lichens and invertebrates that the park has been declared a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a National Nature Reserve.
Trail not accessible in winter
Please note the Deer Park is closed between November and March so the trail can’t be accessed during this time.
Total steps: 8
Total steps: 8
Start point
Car park at Dinefwr Park, grid ref: SN615224
Step 1
Turn right out of the car park towards the castle. Go over the cattle grid and carry on down the stone track until you get to the deer house. Then follow the heron waymarks (River Walk). Head downhill, and Mynachdy, an old red-brick gamekeeper's cottage, is soon passed on your left.
Step 2
Beyond the former deer house (now a holiday cottage), turn right through a gate into Bogwood and follow a boardwalk to the millpond.
Step 3
Once you come out of the deer park, cross the millpond wall with the pumphouse on your left. Follow the tree-lined land on your right towards the floodplain.
Step 4
The River Tywi forms the oxbow lakes that mark the southern boundary of Dinefwr. Follow the tree line on a path, with the ruins of 12th-century Dinefwr Castle towering above to your left.
Step 5
With the river to your right, walk through the Twyi Valley.
Step 6
Turn left here on a path to Llandyfeisant church.
Step 7
Continue until you reach the church at Llandyfeisant. An important feature in the designed landscape, this church was largely rebuilt in the 19th century but actually has medieval origins.
Step 8
On the track back to the car park, pass the site of a large Roman fort over the hill to your right. Archaeological surveys show that it existed, but nothing is visible above ground. All that remains is for you to admire the long-horned White Park cattle as you cross the parkland and return to your start point.
End point
Car park at Dinefwr Park, grid ref: SN615224
Trail map
More near here
Dinefwr
Historic Newton House surrounded by a National Nature Reserve and 18th century landscape Deer Park.
‘Capability’ Brown walk at Dinefwr
Walk beside historic ancient trees on a circular route in a landscape designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown, with the chance to spot the resident fallow deer.
Ragwen Point walk
The Ragwen Point walk is a clifftop trail to a secluded bay with stunning views along the way.
Get in touch
Dinefwr Park, Newton House, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, SA19 6RT
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking in Wales
Explore wide open landscapes, gentler coastal strolls or energetic hikes for something a little more challenging. We've rounded up some of the best places to walk in Wales.
Visiting Newton House at Dinefwr
Nestled in Dinefwr’s parkland near Llandeilo, Newton House is a relaxed and informal Welsh country house. A visit here incorporates both the historic and the contemporary.
Explore the parkland at Dinefwr
Take a stroll through Dinefwr Park near Llandeilo, a stunning 800-acre estate where you can spot a variety of wildlife and some of the oldest trees in Britain.
Eating and shopping at Dinefwr
Take a seat in the café inside Newton House and enjoy a range of hot and cold food, bakes and ice creams. In the car park, the outdoor “You Are Here” café is a convenient spot for takeaway drinks and snacks, before heading off for a walk or White Park Cattle watching.
Ancient tree walks
Explore ancient woodland at the places in our care and visit centuries-old oak, sweet chestnut, yew and even cherry trees.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.