River Honddu (Monmouthshire) facts for kids
The River Honddu (Welsh: Afon Honddu) is a river in southeast Wales. It flows through the beautiful Black Mountains. These mountains are part of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The river's name is pronounced hon-thee.
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What Does "Honddu" Mean?
The name "Honddu" has a long history. Old versions of the name, like Hothenei, suggest it comes from a Welsh word. This word, 'hawdd', means something like "pleasant" or "easy." Over time, the name changed a bit to become "Honddu."
The Journey of the River Honddu
The River Honddu starts its journey high up in the mountains. It begins in Powys, near a famous spot called the Gospel Pass. From there, it flows south through a valley known as the Vale of Ewyas.
As it continues, the river enters Monmouthshire. It passes by a village called Llanvihangel Crucorney. After this, the Honddu turns northeast. It then joins another river, the River Monnow. This meeting point is right on the Wales-England border.
River Branches and Streams
The Honddu has many small streams that join it. These streams flow down the steep sides of the Vale of Ewyas. The biggest stream that adds to the Honddu's flow is called the Nant Bwch.
How the Ice Age Changed the River
Long, long ago, during the last ice age, the Honddu might have flowed differently. Scientists think it probably continued south past Llanvihangel Crucorney. But a huge pile of rock and dirt, left by a glacier, blocked its way. This pile is called a terminal moraine. It forced the river to change direction.
The way the Honddu and the Monnow flow today seems to be linked to an ancient crack in the Earth. This crack is called the Neath Disturbance. It runs through the valley near the Sugarloaf mountain.
The Valley's Shape
The upper part of the Honddu valley has a special shape. It looks like a "U." This U-shape is a sign that glaciers once moved through here. Glaciers are like giant, slow-moving rivers of ice. They carve out valleys as they move.
It's not fully clear where the ice came from that shaped this valley. Some people think ice from the Wye valley might have flowed over the Gospel Pass. However, no rocks from the Wye valley have been found here yet to prove this idea.
Places to Visit Along the Honddu
The valley of the River Honddu is a popular place for visitors. Many people come to explore the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Llanthony Priory
One of the most famous spots is Llanthony Priory. These are the ruins of an old monastery. It's a beautiful and historic place that many tourists enjoy seeing.
Cwmyoy Village
Further down the valley, you'll find the village of Cwmyoy. This village is famous for its church. The church building looks a bit twisted! This is because the whole village is built on an old landslide. The ground beneath it has moved over time, causing the church to lean.
