Ysbyty Cynfyn

St John the Baptist

St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
St John the Baptist, Ysbyty Cynfyn
In the footsteps of monastic labour
Opening times: 
The church is open from 10.00 am to 5pm
See website: http://parish.churchinwales.org.uk/d845/churches/ysbyty-cynfyn/

The church at Ysbyty Cynfyn is set in a mountain environment between the tourist destination of Devils' Bridge and the village of Ponterwyd. There are several huge upright stones in the circular graveyard, which hint at an early and even pre-Christian past.

The present church was built in the early 19th century but there was at least one other previously on this site. It is believed that the stone for this church came from the demolition of an even older one in a more remote spot. Ysbyty Cynfyn was a stopping place on the way to the great Cistercian monastery of Strata Florida, about 12 miles away.

The oldest grave dates from 1793, which may be around the time when the present church was built. It is known to have been rebuilt or extended in 1827 because there is a panel above the entrance door that explains that more seats were added and that some of these were 'free'.

The graveyard is of particular interest. It was reputedly once used for holding fairs and for rough activities, such as cock fighting and an early, unruly form of ball game. The first recorded quadruplet babies were buried here in 1856. The grave, with its typical white quartz cross, is a reminder of the awful hazards to life from diseases such as typhoid and the tragedies it brought with it.

How to get here: 
The church is situated approximately one mile south of Ponterwyd on the right hand side of the road on the A4120 to Devil’s Bridge.
A haven for wildlife
Dedicated car parking available
Stunning scenery and views
Trails for walking and cycling

Local businesses

Ffynnon Cadno Guest House - 1.6km away
Accommodation

The Woodlands Caravan & Camping Park - 2.0km away
Accommodation

The Hafod Hotel - 2.6km away
Accommodation, Food & Drink

Erwbarfe Farm Caravan Park - 2.7km away
Accommodation

The Silver Mountain Experience - 3.0km away
Attraction, Food & Drink

Pengwernydd Cottages - 6.4km away
Accommodation, Leisure & recreation

The Druid Inn - 6.7km away
Accommodation, Food & Drink

The Halfway Inn - 7.9km away
Accommodation, Food & Drink

Y Ffarmers Pub - 9.3km away
Food & Drink

Tynllidiart Arms - 9.9km away
Food & Drink

Esgair Wen, self catering cottage - 13.0km away
Accommodation

Newmans Garden Centre - 13.0km away
Shopping

Hendre Gwyn Cottage and Guesthouse - 13.8km away
Accommodation

Glan Leri Holiday Cottage - 14.0km away
Accommodation

Pennau Craft & Coffee Shop - 14.1km away
Food & Drink, Shopping

Black Lion Hotel - 14.1km away
Accommodation, Food & Drink