Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest
part of the National Forest for Wales
Ponterwyd, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3AB
Visit WebsiteCombine a dog friendly and family friendly day out with a stop off at Bwlch Nant yr Arian. Part of the National Forest for Wales, it’s home to a visitor centre, shop, café and two children’s playgrounds, as well as having three different waymarked walking trails to choose from.
- Children Welcome
- Coffee Machine
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Refreshments
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
The real reason you’re going to want to visit Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest is to see the daily red kite feeding. Every day at 2pm in winter or 3pm in British summer time, up to 150 kites descend from the surrounding countryside. It’s a great opportunity to see these incredible birds up close.
The family friendly red kite trail around the lake is a great way to learn more about Wales’ most famous raptor – pick up a discovery backpack from the visitor centre for some binoculars and a magnifying glass.
The visitor centre itself is worth visiting alone. Perched on a dramatic hilltop, straddling the boundary between the lowlands and uplands, it has commanding views of Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains.
Dogs are welcome to join you on the trails and in the shop and café – just make sure to keep them on a lead or under close control.
For The Dogs
Don’t forget your dog’s lead, and treats and poop bags are a backpack staple!
Opening Hours
The visitor centre is open from 11am to 4pm seven days a week (except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day).
Parking
Park in the pay & display car park. The nearest postcode is SY23 3AB.
The Area
Ceredigion is one of the best places to see Britain’s native wildlife, with dolphins, otters, seals and red kites all calling this wild and remote part of Wales home. Being somewhat overlooked by tourists in favour of Wales’ national parks, it’s also a great option for reactive dog owners looking for a quieter staycation spot.
