Look along Bridge Street as it twists away from you. The first building on your right is Beechwood House.This building has recently been renovated as part of Trefiadaeth Treflun Dolgellau, Dolgellau Townscape Heritage. Particular care was taken to preserve entrances used by swifts and is a good example of care taken over the conservation of a local building.
Swift walk 2
As you follow Bridge Street past The Ship Inn you may become aware of the shrill screaming of swifts high above you. Stand with your back to Y Sospan, the Old Town Hall dated 1606, now a restaurant. Look up to the eaves of the taller buildings.
Swift walk 3
Behind Y Sospan, a path takes you through the grounds of St Mary’s church. The building you see today dates from 1716 but the site was used long before that.Swifts and tawny owls nest in the tower.
Swift walk 4
As you come out of the church yard turn left along Marian Road then right into Lombard Street.Look at the eaves of the cottage opposite
Swift walk 5
Now turn up Well Street to your left and when it meets Cader Road look across at the left hand corner of Springfield Street, above the shop opposite.You may be able to spot where swifts access a cavity.
Swift walk 6
Carry on up Cader Road and look for swifts above you. Which buildings are they using?To the right is a turning into Chapel Street. Do the swifts use the chapel?
Swift walk 7
Also look at the large house across Cader Road
Swift walk 8
Turn into the narrow, steep entrance to Love Lane on the left of Cader Road.
Swift walk 9
Keep to the left to follow Mount Pleasant Road. You have a swift’s eye view of Dolgellau from here.
Swift walk 10
Mount Pleasant swings down to the left past one of the many town springs and as you join Springfield Street look up opposite.Can you see signs of swifts here?
Swift walk 11
Turn right to cross Meyrick Square, the small square, going uphill and when the road splits keep right up Maes y Felin and stop to look at the cottages on your left. Although they are lower than other buildings we have looked at, they are popular with swifts.How many nest sites are there signs of?
Swift walk 12
From here take the other side of the loop back down through Meyrick Square and along Meyrick Street to reach Eldon Square watching for other swift nesting sites as you go.Relax while you enjoy some refreshment here and marvel at these amazing birds, the Dolgellau Swifts.
Swift walk end
If you want to know more about swifts www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk has information about the swift conservation project.If you want to know about the history of old buildings in Dolgellau there are Town Trails and information on line, on this Dolgellau App and for sale in town.
