From Ghost Pond to Wildlife Haven: Restoring Our Farm Pond at Plas Uchaf

The Ghost Pond

When we first began restoring our historic hill farm at Plas Uchaf, a corner of the yard was thick with brambles and overgrowth. Hidden beneath the tangle was the “ghost pond.” The name might conjure images from a gothic novel suitably fitting for this 16th century manor, but in environmental terms, a ghost pond is a real thing: a once functioning pond that has silted over and been lost to time.

Beneath a fallen, once-majestic horse chestnut tree (that many of our neighbours fondly remember) was a swampy hollow that had become a dumping ground over the decades. But old maps told a different story. Clearly marked on historical documents was a pond, and with the neighbouring field, Cae Pistyll, hinting at waterworks or springs, we knew we had something special here.

The 'Ghost Pond' - fallen conker tree over the silted pond

The Restoration Begins

Thanks to funding from the Glastir Uwch scheme, in 2020 we began carefully excavating and restoring what was once a vital part of the farm. The results were astonishing. The pond quickly filled with clean, clear spring water. Completely left to its own devices and in no time at, flora and fauna returned in abundance - reeds, frogs, dragonflies, and birds.

The clearing work begins in 2020

The excavation work

Nature did the rest!

But what’s truly fascinating is the original historical water engineering behind the pond. It is fed by a natural spring high on the hill above. The water flows into the pond and then overflows through a stone-lined outlet, ingeniously built into the dam wall. From there, a conduit of slate and stone carries it underground: beneath the farm track, under the grass verge where our shepherd's hut is now, through the walled garden, resurfaces briefly and back under the terraced lawns of the 17th century walled garden. It flows beneath the garden in ancient slate slab channels, and finally exits via a miniature waterfall into the 'Nant 'stream in the valley. This flow must have once served a greater purpose, possibly feeding a water garden or even powering a fountain in the pleasure gardens laid out centuries ago.

By the pond stand two large slate horse troughs, also fed with fresh spring water. Horses have always played a key role at Plas Uchaf, from the grand stables built by Meredith Wynne in the late 1600s, to our own Aled and his passion for Shire horses.

Uncovering an old trough

An old horse shoe, must be lucky!

Slate troughs with a series of water inlets

Rewilding in Action

Today, the pond has become a sanctuary not just for nature, but for our family too. This year alone, we've counted record numbers of tadpoles, occasional glimpses of small fish, and even a visiting black cormorant.

But this spring brought our favourite guests of all: a family of wild ducks, with four fluffy ducklings trailing their mother through the long grasses and reed beds. It’s like something out of a picture book. This pond, once neglected then forgotten, is now a glowing example of rewilding, of how heritage farming and nature restoration can go hand in hand.

Visit the Pond – Stay with Us

Come and explore this peaceful, story-rich spot for yourself. Trace the water’s journey through our historic gardens, listen to the frogs croaking in the reeds, and see how traditional Welsh hill farming blends with conservation and rewilding.

Stay in our custom-built shepherd’s hut, just below the pond. It’s a perfect farm stay escape: reconnect with nature, unwind by the firepit, and wake to birdsong and fresh country air.

We invite you to be part of the continuing story of Plas Uchaf - a place where landscape, legacy, and living heritage come together.

Stay in our custom built romantic shepherd's hut at the foot of Mynydd y Gaer, Llannefydd. Charming vintage inspired details including a pretty stained glass window and bed nook, surrounded by lush meadows, an orchard and listed walled garden. Perfect base for exploring North Wales, from the majestic coastline to the breathtaking mountains.

We’d love for you to be part of our journey. Plas Uchaf is a sixth-generation family farm, and we're passionate about sharing our story of restoration, rewilding, and heritage farming. Follow along as we bring this special place back to life - one stone, pond, and tree at a time. Subscribe to our blog for updates and find us on Instagram and Pinterest @PlasUchafEscapes for behind-the-scenes moments, seasonal beauty, and life on the farm.

Book your stay in our shepherd’s hut here: Plas Uchaf Farm Retreat – Holiday Cottages

We can’t wait to welcome you!