Wrexham: Chirk Castle Mindful Meadow improved by National Trust Cymru

National Trust Cymru has teamed up with several local organisations and charities to establish the site which covers 0.65 hectares of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

The project aims to provide a serene space where people can connect with nature, promoting improved health and wellbeing.

Katie Rees-Jones, senior volunteer and community Officer at Chirk Castle, expressed delight in creating this shared space where nature and wellbeing are intertwined.

She said: “We are delighted to have created this space together, enabling the passion, care and love we all have for nature and wellbeing to be woven throughout the whole meadow for everyone to enjoy.”

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Over the past year, National Trust Cymru has worked closely with partners such as Cadwyn Clwyd, NEWCIS, BCUHB Health Improvement Team, Home Start Wrexham, North East Wales Mind, Rainbow Foundation, and We Mind The Gap to design and develop the Mindful Meadow.

From planting trees and wildflower seeds to building benches and wildlife homes, the collaborative effort has transformed the area into a flourishing haven, allowing visitors to admire the breathtaking Ceriog Valley, seek solace in the willow dome, observe wildlife in the orchard, and simply enjoy watching clouds drift by.

Inspired by one of the National Trust's founders, Octavia Hill, the meadow reflects her belief in the significance of space, peace, and beauty for finding tranquility and inner peace.

The Mindful Meadow project extends beyond its benefits to people as it also enhances the biodiversity of the SSSI area.

The National Trust Cymru collaborated with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) to ensure the plans aligned with community needs while promoting local wildlife's welfare.

Chief Executive of Natural Resources Wales, Clare Pillman, emphasized the significance of the connection between people and nature in fostering overall health and well-being.

The Mindful Meadow exemplifies how nature and human coexistence can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.

The meadow is open to the public seeking a quiet retreat and is available for various group activities, including counseling, tai chi, reflective walks, and sketching sessions.

The Mindful Meadow project was made possible with the support of Cadwyn Clwyd's Green Communities Project, funded by the EU and Welsh Government Rural Communities Rural Development Programme.

The project cost £1.3 million, supported by the Enabling Natural Resources and Wellbeing Fund (ENRaW), enabling community-led green initiatives and aiding Covid recovery at the local level.