The ridgeway offers panoramic views

Kerry Ridgeway, in Powys' Cambrian Mountains, was once a major highway for cattle and sheep on their way from mid Wales to English markets.

Forestry Commission Wales (FC Wales) has now secured �624,000 to develop a range of tourism projects, including improving the walk, which offers panoramic views.

A new car park, as well as signposts and information panels will be installed along the 15-mile route.

The ridgeway, which predates the Iron Age and Dark Age, is popular among historians, walkers and cyclists.

The money has come as part of Objective Two European funding.

The road has been used for centuries

FC Wales has already built one car park at Sarn Hills, which has a picnic area with disabled access.

A second new car park is proposed at the western end of the route, near Cider House.

A spokesman said FC Wales was helping develop forests throughout Wales for tourists.

Richard Siddons, forest district manager, said the commission was trying to make the woodlands "friendlier places for thousands of people to enjoy".

"Wherever possible, locally-produced environmentally sustainable goods and services will be used, and it is envisaged that work will also be generated for local businesses," he said.

Other new projects include improved facilities at Lake Vyrnwy, horse riding trails at Dyfnant and walks and facilities at Hafren and the source of the Severn.

FC Wales looks after the 320,000 acres of public forests owned by the Welsh Assembly Government.