Hay Community Woodland Group has completed the rebuilding of the dry stone wall at The Warren in Hay-on-Wye.

The project, which began in September 2021 and was finished in February 2025, unfolded in phases as funding allowed, becoming a true labour of love for all involved.

Stretching 150 metres, the wall has been described as "a wall of beauty" and "a work of art." Some, however, have likened it to "a 200-tonne jigsaw with a million pieces and no picture to follow."

Left is a derelict section of wall before the rebuild and right is a completed section of wall
Left is a derelict section of wall before the rebuild and right is a completed section of wall (.)

The wall is believed to have been originally constructed in the late 17th or early 18th century. It holds historical significance as Hay-on-Wye's last dry stone boundary wall, predating the Brecon to Eardisley horse-drawn tramway of 1816, which cut through the wall at The Warren.

The group owes much to the expertise of stonemason Dai Davies and his son Hamer, who skillfully reassembled the wall by eye, using only a hammer as their tool. Their unique talent made this immense jigsaw puzzle possible.

The project would not have been feasible without the dedication of numerous volunteers. These unsung heroes braved all weather conditions to dismantle the old wall and sort the stones. Their efforts were vital in bringing this rebuild to life.

A group photo showing the regular volunteers, plus Tim Pugh who is third from left (Chair of The Warren Trust)
A group photo showing the regular volunteers, plus Tim Pugh who is third from left (Chair of The Warren Trust) (.)

Thanks are also due to the businesses and private individuals who provided financial support. Special recognition goes to the Brecon Beacons Local Nature Partnership (BBLNP), the project's major funder. BBLNP not only contributed financially but also offered invaluable advice on making the wall nature-friendly. They incorporated large crevices and hedgehog-sized gaps to support biodiversity, allowing small mammals to pass through.

Finally, the group extends its gratitude to the landowners on both sides of the wall, Hay Warren Trust and Mike Harris, whose support and goodwill made the rebuild possible.