The woodland extends up a steep gorge, and is approximately 69% broad-leaved deciduous woodland. A Tilio-Acerion ravine forest, it contains ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and sessile oak, rowan, downy birch trees and the small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata).[3] Species found in the woodland include Tunbridge filmy-fern (Hymenophyllum tunbrigense), hay-scented buckler-fern (Dryopteris aemula), Plagiochila atlantica and Parmotrema robustum,[1] a lichen which is critically endangered, and marsh hawk's-beard (Crepis paludosa). Numerous shrubs found in the wood include, ivy, honeysuckle, hazel and bramble and are a food source for birds and mammals such as dormice. Sheep grazing has affected the woodland, particularly on the northern side, and gaps in the canopy affect about 5-10% of the area of the woodland.[3]
Hiking route
There is a 5.6 miles (9.0 km) hiking route through the area, which passes through Coed Cerrig-mawr and ascends Mynydd Coronwen before descending sharply.[4]