Parc Cwm Darran

Parc Cwm Darran.

Parc Cwm Darran lies at the site of the Ogilvie colliery where coal was mined from 1923 until 1975. We started by walking along the Ogilvie lake. There are a few sculptures to the side of the path and numerous pieces of outdoor gym equipment (the Ogilvie Olympics obstacle course) together with old mine wheels. We climbed in an easterly direction away from the park and took a slight diversion to look at a waterfall and moments later we were at the top of it. Continuing our climb we spotted a farm with birds in its yard – geese, ducks and hens. In the distance we could see cows and sheep chasing after a tractor delivering food.

Entering a wooded area, we turned south. The bare trunks of the trees created a picturesque scene around us.

A Grave Yard has a stone marking the entrance: ‘site of Tegernacus inscribed stone removed to the National Museum of Wales for preservation’. A replica declares ‘Here lies Tegernacus, son of Martius’. The original stone probably dates back to the early 7thC but may be much older marking the grave of a Roman soldier from their campaign in the area 47 – 113 AD. There is also the Capel Brithdir Monument now housed in St Gwladys church, Bargoed and a Celtic cross.

We descended to a stream near Pen y Garreg farm and from here started our return travelling generally north. The farmer must have a sense of humour – a sign said ‘Warning Do Not Feed the Moose’.

Further evidence of the Roman presence in the area was found at Caradoc’s Bridge, near Deri. Caradoc was a Silurian leader who fought against the Roman occupation in Wales but was eventually captured and taken to Rome.

We passed under a road bridge, with a fast flowing stream running beside an excellent path. We followed a river for a short distance and climbed to Twyn y Fidffawydd (hillock of the beech hedge). At this point, about 1 mile from the end of the walk, a fine rain started to fall. We picked up our speed and headed along the ridge bracing ourselves against a strong cross wind. Then down into the valley and shelter from the wind. The day had been mostly overcast with occasional weak sunshine, a good walk with lots of variety and decent paths throughout. Walk 7.7 miles ascent 1800ft. Map 166.