Denbigh Moors facts for kids
The Denbigh Moors (called Mynydd Hiraethog in Welsh) is a high, open area in north-east Wales. You can find it between the famous Snowdonia mountains and the Clwydian Range. This special place is located in Conwy and Denbighshire.
The Denbigh Moors are home to some big reservoirs, like Llyn Brenig and Llyn Alwen. It also has the Clocaenog Forest, which is a very important place. This forest is one of the last spots in Wales where you can find wild red squirrels! There's also a wide-open area called the Hafod Elwy Moor National Nature Reserve.
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Exploring the Moors
The Denbigh Moors are known for their beautiful, wild landscapes. It's a great place to explore nature and see some amazing views.
Highest Points and Rivers
The very top of the Denbigh Moors is a peak called Mwdwl-eithin. It stands tall at about 532 meters (1,745 feet) above sea level. That makes it even higher than Exmoor in England!
Another important peak is Moel Seisiog, which is about 467 meters (1,532 feet) high. This mountain is special because it's where the River Elwy begins its journey. On the western side of the moors, you can see the Moel Maelogan wind farm. It overlooks the beautiful Conwy Valley.
There are three other peaks on the Denbigh Moors that are over 500 meters (1,640 feet) tall:
- Craig Bron-banog (502 meters)
- Gorsedd Bran (518 meters)
- Foel Goch (Marial Gwyn) (519 meters)
Lakes and Reservoirs
The Denbigh Moors have many important water bodies. Besides the large Llyn Brenig and Alwen Reservoir, there are two good-sized natural lakes:
You can also find two smaller lakes, Llyn Bran and Llyn y Foel-frech. Another reservoir here is Aled Isaf Reservoir, which means "lower Aled Reservoir." These lakes and reservoirs are important for water supply and for wildlife.
Historic Buildings
You can find some interesting old buildings on the Denbigh Moors.
Gwylfa Hiraethog
One of these is the ruined hunting lodge called Gwylfa Hiraethog. People sometimes call it Plas Pren, which means "Timber Hall," because it was first built with wood. This lodge sits high up at 498 meters (1,633 feet). It was built by a wealthy grocery businessman named Hudson Kearley, 1st Viscount Devonport.
The Sportsmans Arms
Close to the old hunting lodge, you'll find one of the highest inns (like a small hotel or pub) in all of Britain. It's called the Sportsmans Arms. It's a great spot for visitors to rest and enjoy the views.
