On Saturday, 6 ramblers gathered on Manmoel Road, above Mountain Air Gate, for our 7-mile Y Domen Fawr circular. The day began a little chilly and grey, and with the forecast looking less than promising, waterproofs were kept close to hand. Thankfully, apart from a few short showers, the weather was kinder than expected. Before we had even set off, we had a visit from the very curious Julie, one of the local Highland cattle! After Julie had been safely retrieved by the farmer, we were finally on our way, heading south across Manmoel Common. This high, open ground forms part of the Cefn Manmoel ridge, separating the Sirhowy Valley from Ebbw Vale, and the landscape still carries traces of the area’s long industrial past. As we climbed to the highest part of the common, Y Domen Fawr soon loomed large ahead of us — a spectacular and atmospheric sight against the grey skyline. From there, we took the lower path above Garden City, enjoying wide views across Ebbw Vale, before continuing on towards the old incline engine house. These remains are a reminder of the ingenious incline systems once used to move materials from the valley’s mines and industrial workings. It made a perfect spot to pause for a well-earned cup of tea. We then descended the track before climbing once more, this time high above the old Festival Park. Now much quieter than in its heyday, the site was once transformed for the 1992 Ebbw Vale Garden Festival, when the former steelworks land was redeveloped into a colourful visitor attraction that brought huge numbers of people to the valley. Turning north, we joined the Cefn Manmoel ridge, following it along to the site of the long-gone trig point. Here we stopped at the bench for the customary group photo, with the moody skies adding plenty of character to the scene. The route then descended towards the forestry track through Coed y Rhyd, leading us onwards to St James Lake. The lake was very busy with fishermen, but we found a peaceful spot on the far bank for lunch, enjoying the calm water, scenery, and a welcome rest. After lunch, we picked up the forestry track once more, winding our way through the trees and eventually back to the cars, closing off a varied and rewarding circular walk full of open common, ridge walking, industrial history, forestry tracks, and lakeside peace.