The Clump and the National Forest of Wales
Here is some wonderful news about The Clump, along with an opportunity if you would like to be involved.
Following recent discussions, the owner of The Clump (the Manor House) has kindly given permission for an application to be made for it to become part of the National Forest for Wales. This is an exciting step that could help secure the Clump’s long-term future, while bringing benefits for both the environment and the village.
Being part of the National Forest would provide access to advice, potential funding, and practical support. It could also help improve biodiversity, encourage responsible enjoyment of the space, and strengthen the Clump’s role as an important local feature for walking, views, and wellbeing.
A small group has started to take this forward, working on the application and an accompanying woodland management plan. This is still at an early stage, and we’d really value wider involvement from the village.
There are two ways you might like to be involved:
1. Take an active role
This would involve helping with the application process – for example, research, providing local knowledge, making connections, or taking the lead on a particular aspect. (This is mainly desk-based for now rather than physical work – there will be opportunities for hands-on help later.)
2. Stay informed
If you’d prefer not to be directly involved at this stage, we’re very happy to keep you updated on progress.
Email
It’s early days, but this is a really positive opportunity for The Clump and for St Hilary. We’d love as many people as possible to be part of it in whatever way suits them.
Many thanks,
Clump Woodland Management Group
Church Candlelit Concert: Friday 17 April
Experience an atmospheric evening of live music lit by enchanting candlelight in our historic St Hilary Church.
The event celebrates the church’s unique ambience as a place to showcase local musical talent for the benefit of the whole community. The inaugural concert features local harpist Marged Hall and violinist Angharad Thomas, performing an eclectic range of music from Bizet to the Beatles, Schubert to Shakira—there will be something for everyone!
Proceeds will go towards maintaining this beautiful church for future generations and will be shared with the charity CoppaFeel.
Tickets £12, including nibbles and a glass of wine or soft drink. The bar will also be open. Why not make an evening of it and book a pre-concert meal at the Bush Inn?
With your support, this will be the beginning of many such events, using St Hilary Church as a venue space.
Community Café
Village Hall
11am Wednesday, 1 April
11am Wednesday, 6 May
Drop in for coffee/tea, cake and a chat. 11am to 12 noon every 1st Wednesday of the month
3Cs
Cut, clear and clean group
10am Wednesday, 15 April
10am Wednesday, 20 May
Every 3rd Wednesday of the month (normally!). Everybody is welcome to join us – meet at the church lytch gate.
Click here for the history of 3Cs
Village equipment available for hire
St Hilary Forum has a marquee and lighting, PA system and card reader available for use by villagers. If you'd like more information, please email
St Hilary Marketplace
Jeff Lewis has set up St Hilary Marketplace WhatsApp group for posting items for sale or items wanted in and around the vicinity of the village. It also includes freecycling. Message Jeff directly if you would like to join the group 07805 618051
Walks and strolls
The walks and strolls section of the website includes:
- The 10 core circular walks from St Hilary ranging from gentle strolls (1 to 2 miles) to monster expeditions (over 10 miles)
- 4 different routes to Cowbridge, which can be combined for circular routes
- Strolling over The Clump for a takeaway coffee at Stalling Café or round the Garn or to Beaupre Castle
Map of the village with house names
Click on this link for a pdf file of a map of the location of houses in the village - useful if you need to provide directions to family, friends or delivery van drivers. There are two pages: the first is of houses in the centre of the village, the second is of outlying houses.