ST1783 : Notice to visitors to Parc Cefn Onn, Lisvane, Cardiff
taken 7 years ago, near to Llanishen, Cardiff/Caerdydd, Wales
Parc Cefn Onn is a Country Park on the Northern fringes of Cardiff. It contains a collection of native and exotic trees set within an intimate valley. Visitors enjoy the stunning scenery and the calm, relaxing atmosphere.
The park was originally designed some 90 years ago taking advantage of the gentle valley containing the Nant Fawr stream. Cardiff Council acquired the site in 1944 and continued to invest in this asset to the city.
A car park and good path network are provided. The streams, ponds, woodlands and other planting make this a rich haven for wildlife.
The park was originally designed and planted by Mr Prosser, manager of the old Taff Vale Railway some 90 years ago. A wide range of subjects were used but the bulk of planting was of Camellia and Rhododendron species and hybrids. It was to be part of a wider estate including a new house. Sadly, Mr Prosser and his only son passed away before the dream could be realised.
The garden had matured into a horticultural venue of national importance by the 1960s and attracted vast number of visitors particularly during the Rhododendron season.
There is an extensive network of streams and ponds throughout the woods. The biggest pond is artificial and created by damming the stream. Eventually this stream runs into Roath Park Lake. The streams and ponds act as a habitat for frogs, toads and common newts to spawn in the spring.
The size, colour and variety of trees are simply stunning. The Dawn Redwoods are the largest of their species in the city at 28 metres and an Edwardian-planted Grand Fir at 48 metres is reputed to be Cardiff’s tallest trees. Colour is forever changing with rhododendron and azalea providing late spring interest.