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Afon Merddwr facts for kids

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Afon Merddwr
Merddwr river at Pentrefoelas.jpg
Afon Merddwr at Pentrefoelas
Afon Merddwr is located in Conwy
Afon Merddwr
Location of the mouth within Conwy
Native name Afon Merddwr
Country Wales
Counties Gwynedd
Physical characteristics
Main source Mwdwl-eithin
53°03′40″N 3°37′16″W / 53.061°N 3.621°W / 53.061; -3.621
River mouth River Conwy
53°02′42″N 3°42′25″W / 53.045°N 3.707°W / 53.045; -3.707
Length 16 km (9.9 mi)

The Afon Merddwr is a river found in the southern part of Conwy county, Wales. It is a smaller river that flows into a larger one, the River Conwy. This meeting point is close to the village of Pentrefoelas.

The Afon Merddwr is about 10 kilometers (or 6 miles) long. Its name comes from the Welsh language. "Merddwr" means "backwater" or "stagnant water." This name might describe how the river flowed in the past. It could also refer to the quality of its water.

Where the River Starts and Flows

The Afon Merddwr begins high up on a hill. This hill is called Mwdwl-eithin, and it stands 532 meters tall. It is the highest point in an area known as Mynydd Hiraethog.

The River's Early Journey

At first, the river has a different name. It is called Afon Llaethog, which means "Milky River." It flows towards the south. Then, it turns and flows west. This turn happens near a small village named Glasfryn.

Flowing Through Wetlands

As the river continues, many smaller streams join it. These streams flow down from the surrounding hills. The Afon Merddwr then passes through areas of wetland and marshes. These are wet, boggy lands.

Near a place called Rhydlydan, another small stream joins the Afon Merddwr. This stream is named Afon Nug. It also flows down from the hills above Pentrefoelas.

Special Marshland Area

The marshes where the Afon Nug and Afon Merddwr meet are very important. They are protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This special area is known as Corsydd Nug a Merddwr. It means "Nug and Merddwr Marshes."

The Final Stretch

The river then flows alongside the A5 road. It goes under a bridge for the B5113 road near Pentrefoelas. From there, it flows for another 2 kilometers. Finally, it joins the River Conwy, just north of Ysbyty Ifan.

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