Top 5 Walks in North Wales
North Wales is a paradise for walkers, offering breathtaking coastal paths, historic trails, and mountain vistas. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a gentle stroll, these top five walks showcase the best of the region’s natural beauty.
Top 5 Walks in North Wales
1. Isle of Anglesey Coast Path
The Isle of Anglesey Coast Path is one of the most spectacular walking routes in the UK. Spanning 125 miles (200 km), this trail winds its way around the island’s edge, with 95% of it designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Expect stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages along the way.
- Best for: Coastal views, seabird watching, and history
- Highlights: South Stack Lighthouse, Beaumaris Castle, Red Wharf Bay
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (some steep sections)
Top 5 Walks in North Wales
2. North Wales Coastal Path
Following the North Wales coastline for 60 miles (96 km), the North Wales Coastal Path stretches from Bangor to Prestatyn. This route passes through traditional seaside resorts while offering some of the most spectacular views of the Snowdonia mountains and the Irish Sea.
- Best for: Coastal and mountain views, family-friendly walking
- Highlights: Conwy Castle, Great Orme, Prestatyn Dyserth Way
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Top 5 Walks in North Wales
3. Edge of Wales Walk
The Edge of Wales Walk is a hidden gem that follows the top of the Llŷn Peninsula, incorporating historic pilgrim routes to Bardsey Island. The journey is unique as it is the only long-distance walk in Britain that ends with a boat trip to an island, offering an adventure like no other.
- Best for: Tranquillity, coastal scenery, and historical routes
- Highlights: Bardsey Island, Aberdaron, Porth Oer (Whistling Sands)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Top 5 Walks in North Wales
4. Mary Jones Walk
Named after Mary Jones, a determined 15-year-old who walked 26 miles barefoot in 1800 to buy a Bible, this trail is both a historical and scenic journey through Snowdonia National Park. It runs from Llanfihangel-y-Pennant to Bala Lake, taking in breathtaking mountain and valley views.
- Best for: History lovers, long-distance hikers
- Highlights: Bala Lake, Snowdonia’s rolling hills, traditional Welsh villages
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Top 5 Walks in North Wales
5. Wat’s Dyke Trail
Following the historic Wat’s Dyke, this 61-mile (99 km) trail runs from Llanymynech to Basingwerk Abbey near Holywell in Flintshire. The route blends history with natural beauty, taking walkers through countryside lanes, ancient woodlands, and medieval sites.
- Best for: History enthusiasts, long-distance walkers
- Highlights: Basingwerk Abbey, Offa’s Dyke, River Dee Estuary
- Difficulty: Moderate
Plan Your North Wales Walking Adventure
North Wales is a dream destination for walkers, offering everything from rugged coastal cliffs to serene countryside trails. Whether you’re tackling the Anglesey Coast Path, walking in the footsteps of history on the Mary Jones Walk, or taking in breathtaking mountain views along the North Wales Coastal Path, these walks promise an unforgettable experience.
