The reserve has a good network of paths which weave between the great variety of habitats, woodland, wildflower meadow, ponds and reedbeds all of which are packed with interesting flora and fauna.
Remarkably, the reserve was a refuse tip in the early 1970's. Although a large proportion of the site had been used as a landfill site, much of the relict estuarine vegetation still exists and forms a major feature within the reserve.
Plants of note include Bee, Common Spotted and Southern Marsh Orchids, Broomrape and Grass Leaved Vetchling.
An enthusiastic group of local residents formed a Friends' Group in 1989 who work with Cardiff Council to further improve the reserve. Organised orchid walks are run by the Friends Group and Council Wardens in the summer.
Co-ordinates: OS Map reference ST327790
LAT 51°30'18" N LONG 30°8'42"W
Location:
By foot - There are three entrances to the Reserve, one on Hammond Way and two on Ipswich Road.
By bus - The reserve is within easy walking distance of bus routes along Colchester Avenue and Newport Road. Details of bus routes can be found at www.cardiffbus.com.
By train - There is no railway station close to the reserve. However, Cardiff Central Station is next to the Central bus station where connections can be made with local bus routes. Details of train services can be found at www.nationalrail.co.uk.
By car - M4 to A48 to A4161 (Cardiff Docks) to A487 Westward to Ipswich Road. All three entrances to the reserve have adjacent on-street parking. Howardian LNR is located next to the David Lloyd Leisure Centre close to Newport Road, Cardiff.
Contact:
Friends of Howardian Local Nature Reserve
Chairman: Nigel Ferrand
Secretary: Roger Williams
E Mail: info@howardianlnr.org.uk
Website: www.howardianlnr.org.uk
