River Alun, Pembrokeshire facts for kids
The River Alun is a small but important river in Northwest Pembrokeshire, Wales. It flows through the ancient city of St Davids, which is the smallest city in the United Kingdom. Even though it's a short river, the Alun plays a big part in the local area's history and nature.
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Where Does the River Alun Flow?
The River Alun starts its journey from a spring near the village of Brawdy, which is a few miles east of St Davids. A spring is a natural place where water flows out from the ground. From there, the river travels westwards, making its way through the beautiful countryside of the St Davids Peninsula.
The River's Path Through St Davids
As the Alun reaches St Davids, it flows right through the heart of the city. It passes by the famous St Davids Cathedral and the ruins of the Bishop's Palace. The river then continues its journey towards the coast.
Journey to the Sea
After leaving St Davids, the River Alun flows into the sea at Porthclais. Porthclais is a small, historic harbour that has been used for centuries. It's a very pretty spot, popular with visitors and locals alike. The river's journey from its source to the sea is only about 7 miles (11 kilometers) long.
Wildlife Around the River Alun
Even though the River Alun is small, it supports a variety of wildlife. Rivers are important habitats for many different plants and animals. The clean water and surrounding areas provide homes and food for them.
Animals You Might See
Along the banks of the River Alun, you might spot small mammals like otters. Otters are playful creatures that love to swim and fish. You could also see water voles, which are small rodents that live near water. Birds like dippers and grey wagtails are often seen near the river, looking for insects and small fish.
Fish in the River
The river is home to various types of fish. Brown trout are common in many Welsh rivers, and the Alun is no exception. These fish need clean, clear water to survive. Their presence shows that the river is healthy.
Plants Along the Banks
The areas around the River Alun are rich in plant life. You might find willow trees and alder trees growing near the water. These trees help to keep the riverbanks stable and provide shade for the water, which is good for fish. Wildflowers also grow here, adding colour to the landscape, especially in spring and summer.
The River's Role in St Davids' History
The River Alun has been important to St Davids for a very long time. Rivers often played a key role in the development of towns and cities, providing water for people and animals.
Water for the Cathedral and Palace
In the past, the river was a vital source of fresh water for the people living in St Davids. It would have supplied water for the St Davids Cathedral and the Bishop's Palace. Water was needed for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Power for Mills
Rivers were also used to power mills. Mills are buildings where grain is ground into flour, or other materials are processed. The flowing water would turn a large wheel, which then powered the machinery inside the mill. There might have been small mills along the River Alun in the past, helping the local community.
St Davids: A Unique City
St Davids is a very special place, and the River Alun flows right through it. It is named after Saint David, the patron saint of Wales.
The Smallest City in the UK
St Davids is officially a city because it has a cathedral. However, it's very small, with a population of only about 1,800 people. This makes it the smallest city in the United Kingdom. Despite its size, it attracts many visitors who come to see its historic buildings and beautiful coastal scenery.
Connection to Pembrokeshire
The River Alun is just one part of the natural beauty of Pembrokeshire. Pembrokeshire is a county in Southwest Wales known for its stunning coastline, national park, and rich history. The area is popular for hiking, surfing, and exploring ancient sites. The River Alun adds to the charm of this unique part of Wales.
Images for kids
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The river in St Davids
