Llangoed and Aberlleiniog Common Local Nature Reserve

Llangoed and Aberlleiniog Common Local Nature Reserve lies near the coast in south-east Anglesey. The reserve covers mixed habitats from wet woodlands to flower-rich meadows and open heaths. A small river, the Afon Lleiniog, winds through the site, adding to the variety of landscapes. The reserve is best known for Castell Aberlleiniog, a Norman motte-and-bailey castle built in the late 11th century. The stone keep on the mound was strengthened during the 17th-century Civil War and later rebuilt as a folly. The castle is a scheduled ancient monument and offers views across the Menai Strait to the mountains of Snowdonia. Visitors find well-marked paths through wet and dry woodlands, damp meadows and open heaths. The woods contain ash, sycamore, holly, birch and scattered patches of goat willow. Wet meadows display yellow iris, marsh marigold, dog’s mercury and tormentil. Birdlife includes song thrush, bullfinch, sparrowhawk, tawny owl and dipper. Otters and water voles live along the river, while common lizards and adders bask on the heaths.