
Where to go · Vale of Glamorgan
Forest bathing at Coed y Bwl
A small ancient ash wood near St Bride's Major, best known for its carpet of wild daffodils in early spring.
Coed y Bwl is a small nature reserve of about two hectares, run by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, a kilometre east of St Bride's Major. It is an ancient ash wood and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Elm once filled the southern end; after Dutch elm disease it was replanted with ash, lime and wild cherry, while ash, sycamore and field maple grow to the north. It is best known for wild daffodils.
This is a place for a short, unhurried visit rather than a long walk. In early spring wild daffodils and wood anemones cover the ground at the southern end, followed by bluebells on the northern slopes. Park in the lay-by next to the reserve, opposite the bridge. The paths are not suitable for wheelchairs, though you can see the flowers from the road. Ash dieback work means some paths may be closed, so follow the signs, and keep dogs on a lead.
Practical
- Managed by
- Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales
- Parking
- Lay-by next to the reserve, opposite the bridge
- Terrain
- Woodland paths, not wheelchair accessible
- Nearest station
- Bridgend
- Facilities
- None
- Opening and entry
- Free; some paths may close during ash dieback work
- Official page
- welshwildlife.org
Last updated 4 November 2026. Paths, parking and access can change, so check before you visit. Spotted something out of date? Please let us know.
Guides nearby
A guide within 15 miles of Coed y Bwl
More woodlands in Vale of Glamorgan
All venues in Vale of Glamorgan
Cosmeston Lakes Country ParkQuarry lakes, meadow and woodland near Penarth, with easy level paths
Dyffryn GardensNational Trust garden with a 22 acre arboretum of trees from around the world
Hensol ForestMixed forest around a quiet lake north of Welsh St Donats, with plenty of pathsPhotos: Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, Dominic Nelson (CC BY-SA 4.0); Dyffryn Gardens, Ruth Sharville (CC BY-SA 2.0); Hensol Forest, Guy Butler-Madden (CC BY-SA 2.0).