Opening of footpaths has been a big bonus to the area even if the MAFF guidelines to open areas have not all been followed. We are now able to use activity sites for caving and climbing in the Brecon Beacons National Park which were previously closed.

A list of open and accessible attractions in the area as well as details of Foot and Mouth (FMD) and the minimal effect it has had on Swansea and Gower on our website. 

We welcome feedback so that we can provide just the right amount of information to encourage visitors to come to the area and stay longer once they have arrived.

IN THIS EDITION

Holiday Activities at Clyne Farm Centre
Adopt a Pony Days
A Walk or Ride Through Local History
Eating Out

Next Edition Activities for Everyone

Holiday Activities at Clyne Farm Centre

FREE TASTER SESSIONS Our FREE activity taster sessions are a popular feature for guests staying at Clyne Farm. Now we are extending these to people staying at our partner accommodation providers. Booking in advance is neede but you will have to be quick as there are only a limited number of places. The only conditions are:

• booking in advance on 01792 403333
• limited to ages eight and upwards
• limited to guests staying with you for five days or more

Activities Can include archery, indoor climbing, orienteering and horseriding

Times Monday 23 April 9.30am to 12.30pm and 1.00pm to 4.00pm

Again last week it was flat calm for our surfing day so we are hoping for something better this week.  Simon's special super soft beginners boards ensure that you can get started in almost any conditions. Wetsuits are also provided even for very small people

Our other activity days revolve around our range of outdoor activities including archery, indoor climbing, orienteering, horseriding, climbing and abseiling, gorge walking, rock hopping, caving, canoeing and Challenge Valley - the muddiest assault course in the world!!!!! 

We have a weekend special of Caving and Canoeing on Saturday followed by an on-site day on Sunday

ACTIVITIES for week beginning Monday 23rd April 2001

You can find further details of our full or half day activities (Details) or holidaying in our very popular self catering cottages. Details on our website.

Adopt a Pony Days 

Now that both Clyne Common and Clyne Valley Country Park are fully operational we are able to offer our usual riding routes. Adopt a Pony days continue to be very popular as they are a great way for parents to have some time to themselves while the children come to us and look after a pony for a day. 

Full details of our hacks and lessons are on our web site as well as pictures of the horses and staff. 

Thought of the Week We are told that if we vaccinate animals against FMD we cannot export. Why is it that countries such as South Africa and Argentina who control the disease by ring vaccination are able to export to the United Kingdom and European countries?

A Walk or Ride through Local History 

This week I'm suggesting a cycle ride which can also be a walk - or vice versa!  The walk or ride through Clyne Valley is familiar to many people but I wonder just how many have ventured beyond the Railway Inn at Upper Killay. The easy terrain means that a walk or cycle fronm Blackpill along the line of the old London and Midland railway track (now tarmacced) to Gowerton is a good afternoon out.

The route follows Swansea's industrial past through much of its length. Sadly the interpretative signboards and maps are well past their sell by date.

Parking or public transport is at Blackpill and you can return by bus from both Killay and Gowerton to the Quadrant Bus Station in Swansea.

At the start the route passes through Clyne Woods. This area was one of the early industrial areas with mining and timber concessions being granted from the 15th century. There is evidence of a mill leat just up from the pond, a mine slant to the rear of the pond. Just north on the south side is evidence of early mining in the form of bell pits - bell shaped depressions in the ground formed when the shaft collapsed into the underground workings.

Exploration in the area below the bridge which is close to The Railway Inn will reveal a former brickworks quarry, evidence of Killay Brickworks bricks and more modern mine workings.

Past the Railway Inn (noted for its real ale and not its decor and outlook!) I think the route becomes more interesting. Dunvant Rugby Club comes up on the right hand side after Killay Marsh and as the track passes Dunvant village there is evidence of the major mine workings that dominated the area a hundred years ago.

Just before Gowerton houses have been built on the line of the track so there is a diversion onto the road. Plenty of places here to find some food - mainly chips and beer - before turning to retrace your steps. If you're cycling then the return with its gentle downhill slope is a joy.

Loos are a problem with some at Blackpill but otherwise there are plenty of bushes!!

Check our web site for details of cycle hire.

Eating Out 

If you walk or cycle the Clyne Valley route then a stop at the Railway Inn is a convenient halfway halt. Since our policy is to recommend local businesses The Woodman Inn at Blackpill which is part of a chain does fall outside of its scope. However, it's a good place for a warm afternoon or evening as children have some space outside and the bar meals are usually served with a smile. They also have a range of guest ales and a good atmosphere throughout the week 

NEXT EDITION 

• Activities for everyone
• Walk of the week
  

Geoff Haden
Clyne Farm Centre
Westport Avenue
Mayals
Swansea SA3 5AR
www.clynefarm.com tel 01792 403333 fax 01792 403339
geoff.haden@clynefarm.com 
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Clyne Farm Centre - making a difference to a stay in Swansea and Gower. 70,000 people and You've Been Framed can't be wrong - click here to check out Challenge Valley - the muddiest assault course in the world!!!

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