Afon Irfon facts for kids
The Afon Irfon (which means River Irfon in Welsh) is a river in Powys, Wales. It starts high up in the Cambrian Mountains. The river flows through the Abergwesyn Valley. It passes the Nant Irfon National Nature Reserve. It also goes through Llanwrtyd Wells. Finally, it joins the River Wye at Builth Wells. The very beginning of the Irfon is in an area sometimes called the 'Desert of Wales'.
The Afon Irfon is also the name for a special protected area. This area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It protects the important natural features in the upper parts of the river.
Where Does the River Irfon Flow?
The Afon Irfon starts about 540 meters (1,770 feet) above sea level. This is on the upper slopes of Bryn Garw in the Cambrian Mountains. From there, it flows south. It passes the bottom of a place called the Devil's Staircase.
The river then goes through the Abergwesyn Valley. It flows into a beautiful area known as Camddwr Bleiddiad, which means "Wolves' Gorge." After this, it reaches the Wolves' Pool. The river then passes a forest filled with sessile oak trees.
The Afon Irfon joins the Afon Gwesyn at Abergwesyn. It then flows under the Irfon Forest. It also passes the Nant Irfon National Nature Reserve. The river continues towards Llanwrtyd Wells.
Finally, the river flows eastwards. It passes Llangammarch Wells and Garth. It is overlooked by the Mynydd Epynt hills. The Afon Irfon then joins the River Wye at Builth Wells. This journey is about 28 winding miles from its source.
The name 'Irfon' might come from the same origin as the River Irvine in Scotland. People have suggested different meanings for this name over time.
Afon Irfon's Place in History
The Afon Irfon is famous in Welsh history. A very important event happened on its banks. Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, who was the last independent Prince of Wales, was killed here. This happened near a place called Cilmeri on December 11, 1282. This event was a major turning point in Welsh history.
The River in Books
The Abergwesyn Valley is mentioned in a famous book. The story of a boy who couldn't jump safely across the Wolves' Gorge is also told. This was written by George Borrow. His travel book, called Wild Wales: Its People, Language and Scenery, was published in 1862. It describes the beautiful places and interesting stories of Wales.
Gallery
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The Irfon flowing down the Abergwesyn Valley, dropping into the 'Wolves' Gorge' in the middle-ground of the picture
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Afon Irfon flows through the narrow Wolves' Gorge into the Wolves' Pool in the Abergwesyn Valley
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Afon Irfon at Llangammarch Wells
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Wolves' Gorge
