Hikeview Offa's Dyke Page Offa's Dyke Path This is the Offa's Dyke Path Page. It features an interactive map that is intended to help anyone planning a hike along the walk to plan the each days walking. To this end the path is clearly marked with alternating red and orange sections. Each section is 2 miles long except the last section into . Planning a walk on the Offa's Dyke Path The Offa's Dyke Path Trail starts in Sedbury Cliffs and ends at Prestatyn, 177 miles in all. The starting point of the offa's Dyke Path is best reached by getting the train to Chepstow, it is a short journey from here to Sedbury. At the far end Prestatyn also has a railway station in easy walking distance from the Offa's Dyke Centre. Standard Sections The trail is typically divided into the following sections, each section representing a day's walking. There is obviously no obligation to stick to this breakdown, and with this in mind the map below indicates the trail in two mile sections (alternating red and orange lines). This allows you to quickly choose a day's walking by counting sections up to the distance you feel comfortable with.

This will depend on the type of terrain, but cumulative climb and walking time estimates based on Naismith's Rule have been included with each standard section (for walking North or South) to help give an idea of the nature of the section. Sedbury to Monmouth, 17.5 miles From Sedbury Cliffs just North of the Severn Bridge the trail starts by making a bee-line for the river Wye. The Wye is a constant companion for the day, as the trail snakes along beside it, mostly along (and up and down) wooded hills to the East of the river. The initial 4.5 miles climbs steadily to about 180m and then stay at this height for another 2.5 miles. Then it drops about 70m above Brockweir. Here there is an alternative route along the river bank from Brockweir to Bigsweir bridge (15m) that avoids St. Biavel's Common and a climb to 245m.

After Bigsweir bridge the trail climbs to about 170 and then back down to Redbrook (26m) where it again climbs to 250m after which it descends sharply to Monmouth (25m). Cumulative climb heading North: 1060m. Cumulative climb heading South: 1050m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 7 hours, 36 mins. Southwards: 7 hours, 35 mins. Monmouth to Pandy, 16 miles The trail makes it's way to the Western outskirts of Mommouth where it leaves the road at a sharp bend on Watery Lane and climbs steeply, first through fields and wooded tracks then into the woods proper, peaking at 145m and then descending through the woods into farm laneways, passing Old Hendre Farm (50m). The next 5 miles to Llantilio Crossenny is even walking through fields, briefly peaking at 100m, with some short stretches on roads.

After crossing the B4233 the farmland gets higher again, peaking at White Castle (160m) and dropping back to 79m before climbing again to 235m over 3.75 miles where it then drops rapidly to Pandy (118m). Cumulative climb heading North: 580m. Cumulative climb heading South: 490m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 6 hours, 18 mins. Southwards: 6 hours, 9 mins. Pandy to Hay-on-Wye, 16 miles This is a real hump day with the vast majority spent walking the slightly sinuous ridge of the Black Mountains. It starts with a steep ascent up Hatterrall Hill (519m) over about 3.75 miles, followed by a tramp along the slowly climbing ridge for 7.5 miles to the highest point Black Mountain (702m). This is followed by a descent over 4.75 miles past Hay Bluff (677m) to Hay-on-Wye (100m). Cumulative climb heading North: 750m.

Cumulative climb heading South: 760m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 6 hours, 35 mins. Southwards: 6 hours, 36 mins. Hay-on-Wye to Kington, 14.7 miles The trail heads North through farmland to the West of the Wye for 2.5 miles where it turns West and starts to climb. Not long into the climb the trail turns back North and peaks at 269m. From here it drops slightly, then climbs again (still on lanes and fields) to 335m before dropping into Newchurch (257m). From Newchurch the trail goes over Disgwylfa Hill (370m) and back to farmland as far as Gladestry (240m). A good climb to the Nort-East over Hergest Ridge (416m) is followed by a descent into Kington (187m). Cumulative climb heading North: 680m. Cumulative climb heading South: 600m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 6 hours, 2 mins.

Southwards: 5 hours, 54 mins. Kington to Knighton, 13.6 miles This is a 3 hump day. The first is a 4 mile section from Kington to Lower Harpton (170m) winds past Bradnor Hill and Herrock Hill, peaking at 375m. The next hump is 3.75 miles and peaks at 366m, dropping back to near Maes-Treylow (166m). The last hump is 5.85 miles and climbs Furrow Hill (317m) followed by Hawthorn Hill (396m) and then descends into Knighton (193m). Cumulative climb heading North: 760m. Cumulative climb heading South: 750m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 5 hours, 48 mins. Southwards: 5 hours, 47 mins.

Knighton to Brompton Crossroads, 15 miles From Knighton the trail passes Panpunton to climb steeply up Panpunton Hill (344m) and then on to Cwm-sanaham Hill (396m) before descending to 270m and then climbing back up 427m and passing by Llanfair Hill. A steep descent passes near Newcastle (path bottoms out at 204m) and climbs to 348m near Craig Hill, 368m near Hergan. Moving on over another short hill and hitting 417m near Edenhope Hill, and one last hummock (384m) before dropping shrply into the Brompton Crossroads (141m) near Pentreheyling. Cumulative climb heading North: 1030m. Cumulative climb heading South: 1080m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 6 hours, 43 mins. Southwards: 6 hours, 48 mins.

Brompton Crossroads to Buttington Bridge, 12.2 miles The first 6.25 miles of this days walking is fairly flat through fields and laneways to Kingswood (144m). The trail then climbs through woodland up and over a hill topped by Beacon Ring Fort (408m) where the trail returns to farmland and descends to Buttington Bridge(67m). Cumulative climb heading North: 500m. Cumulative climb heading South: 570m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 4 hours, 54 mins. Southwards: 5 hours, 1 mins. Buttington Bridge to Llanymynech, 10.4 miles This section is pretty flay, spending a great deal of time following either canals or the river Severn. It starts out from Buttington Bridge on the Severn) and vaguely follows the Severn before meeting the Shropshire Union Canal after about a mile. It follows this for about another mile to Pool Quay and then strikes out back to the Severn which it follows for about another 3 miles.

Here the trail heads cross country to Four Crosses, shortly after which it comes along side the Montgomery Canal and remains beside it for the next 3 miles into Llanymynech (78m) by which time it has turned into the Ellesmere Canal Cumulative climb heading North: 90m. Cumulative climb heading South: 80m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 3 hours, 37 mins. Southwards: 3 hours, 36 mins. Llanymynech to Chirk Mill, 13.8 miles From Llanymynech the trail climbs up by Asterly Rocks onto a wooded hill (208m) and back down to Porth-y-Waen (104m). Then it is over farmland to Nantmawr (129m) where a steep climb up Moelydd Uchaf (271m) is followed by a slow descent to Trefonen (190m) and on through more fields to the foot of a wooded hill (167m).

An initially stepp climb through woods opens up at the Old Oswestry race course (327m) The trail continues through farmland at roughly this elevation (some slight up and down) for about 4 miles and then descends steeply to Chrik Mill by the B4500 (112m) near Bronygarth. Cumulative climb heading North: 780m. Cumulative climb heading South: 750m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 5 hours, 54 mins. Southwards: 5 hours, 51 mins. Chirk Mill to Llandegla, 16.3 miles From Chrik Mill the trail climbs up a hill (254m) and then descnds gently to the Llangollen Canal where it turns sraply to follow the canal past Froncysyllte and on to Trevor. From Trevor (75m) it climbs through woods to the base of the Llangollen limestone escarpment (255m).

The trail follows the base of the escarpment for about 4 miles to World's End (339m) where it then climbs through a wood and onto moorland pealng at 494m just as the trail returns to woodland where it descends to flatter farmland and on to Llandegla (253m). Cumulative climb heading North: 890m. Cumulative climb heading South: 740m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 6 hours, 55 mins. Southwards: 6 hours, 40 mins. Llandegla to Bodfari, 17.5 miles This days walk runs North up and down along a string of hills. The trail side-steps most of the actual hilltops except for one. From Llandegla the trail passes through mostly farmland before skirting Moel y Plas where the trail peaks at 412m, it then goes around Moel Llanfair and Moel Gyw. Returning to farmland for a time the trail then skirts the top of Foel Fenli where the trail peaks at 454m.

A track across moorland then climbs to Moel Fammau and the Jubilee Tower (542m). The trail then continues over moorland for about 5 miles, past Moel Arthur and over Penycloddiau (432m) where it then descends to Bodfari (51m). Cumulative climb heading North: 1040m. Cumulative climb heading South: 1240m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 7 hours, 34 mins. Southwards: 7 hours, 54 mins. Bodfari to Prestatyn, 12.1 miles This is essentially a 2 hump day. The foirst hump out of Bodfari climbs steeply to 262m and then back down to cross the A55 (85m). It consists of a roughly 5 mile stretch througfh farmland. There follows another steep climb to 262m followed by a descent to cross the A5151 (114m), this is another 4 mile stretch though fields and along stretches of road.

The trail then continues at roughly this elevation for 2 miles, finishing with a short climb through moorland to 181m followed byt a sharp descent to Prestatyn and some urban trecking to the Offa's Dyke Centre (5m). Cumulative climb heading North: 680m. Cumulative climb heading South: 720m. Naismiths Rule, Northwards: 5 hours, 10 mins. Southwards: 5 hours, 14 mins. Accomodation Having decided how far you want to walk on a given day (taking into account the terrain descriptions given above) the next thing to do is arrange accomodation. Except where the trail passed through or close by villages and towns it is inevitable that you will have to deviate a fair bit from the trail to find a bed for the night. Bags While the trail is not too hard going it is far more pleasant to leave the heavy lifting to someone else, and a couple of services exist to help in this regard. Test Chepstow 182 miles away .. - Picture of Beginning And End, Prestatyn - TripAdvisor New!

Find and book your ideal hotel on TripAdvisor — and get the lowest prices Chepstow 182 miles away .. - Picture of Beginning And End, Prestatyn “Is it the start or the end ?” Reviewed 6 August 2013 Central Beach, Prestatyn is both !! .. here by the sea is Offas Dyke Path starting point to Chepstow .. Chepstow is 182 miles away .. you just follow the Acorn markers .. Helpful? © 2016 TripAdvisor LLC All rights reserved. TripAdvisor Terms of Use , Privacy Policy , and Cookie Policy . * TripAdvisor LLC is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site... (more) TripAdvisor LLC is not responsible for content on external web sites. Taxes, fees not included for deals content. TripAdvisor uses cookies to improve your site experience. Learn more or change your settings. By continuing, you consent to our cookies. Chepstow 182 miles away .. - Picture of Beginning And End, Prestatyn - TripAdvisor Want the lowest hotel prices? You're in the right place. We check 200+ sites for you. Chepstow 182 miles away ..

- Picture of Beginning And End, Prestatyn “Is it the start or the end ?” Reviewed August 6, 2013 Central Beach, Prestatyn is both !! .. here by the sea is Offas Dyke Path starting point to Chepstow .. Chepstow is 182 miles away .. you just follow the Acorn markers .. Helpful? © 2017 TripAdvisor LLC All rights reserved. TripAdvisor Terms of Use and Privacy Policy . * TripAdvisor LLC is not a booking agent and does not charge any service fees to users of our site... (more) TripAdvisor LLC is not responsible for content on external web sites. Taxes, fees not included for deals content. Local Walks | Walden Cottage, Prestatyn, Denbighshire North Wales Booking / Contact Us Local Walks This is the place to be for beautiful walks right outside of Walden Cottage gate! We are situated between the sea and the mountainside and are right on the edge of the Offas Dyke Path which starts/ends in Prestatyn and continues right to Chepstow! so whether you are looking for a coastal stroll or a hike up the mountain, you are sure to find something to suit you.

If you turn right out of the gate and walk along Bishopswood Road, you will pass a number of houses, at the end of the road just in front of the last row of houses you will see a set of steps with an old metal handrail, if you take the steps down (careful they are a bit wonky)! This will bring you to the local Golf Course of St Melyd – head down the golf course (watch out for golfers)! You will see the Golf Club House ahead of you, (they do a great Carvery on a Sunday and it is open to Non Members). When you get to the tarmac you will be on the Prestatyn to Dyserth Walkway (an old railway track) turn left and you can head off to Dyserth (approx 4 miles).

Or you can turn right for a shorter route and head back to Prestatyn – this will take you to the back of the bus station area – if you go this way and want to make your way back to the cottage you will need to cross over into town and head up the high street until you reach the Cross Foxes Pub then up Fforddlas until you reach the top of the hill and Walden Cottage is just around the corner on the right hand side. Another nice local walk to do is walking through Bishopswood. Turn right out of the gate and walk along Bishopswood Road to the end. Go through the kissing gate and you have entered the woods, if you continue through the woods you will end up in a village called Meliden, (you will find a nice pub called the Red Lion) there are numerous routes you can take from here – you can turn left after the last gateway and head up the hill towards the “Bryniau” there is a mountain called “Meliden Mountain” it’s worth taking a walk up to the top on a clear day for a breath taking view of the coast line.

If you are interested in any of the walks but are not sure, then please feel free to ask us and we will be happy to explain in more detail! Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Name * Website Comment You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <strike> <strong> Walden Cottage Situated in the hillside of Prestatyn with panoramic views of the North Wales Coast, Walden Cottage is perfectly situated to provide both a peaceful retreat and activities on your doorstep. Read more » Offa's Dyke Path: Prestatyn to Chepstow, Planning, Places to Stay, Places to Eat (British Walking Guides): Amazon.co.uk: Keith Carter: 9781905864355: Books By Stuart W. Greig on 16 Sept.

2011 Format: Paperback Trailblazer have released a new edition of their Offa's Dyke Guidebook, to coincide with the path's 40th Birthday - being celebrated by Monmouthshire County Council on 23rd September in Chepstow - the end/start of the path. This third edition has been re-walked and re-worked by Keith Carter, make sure you look out for the 3rd Edition star in the bottom right hand corner, or you could end up buying the old edition. The guide weighs in at 297g, which isn't lightweight in any way, but as anyone who is familiar with Trailblazer guides will know, they use good quality, heavy grain paper that won't dissolve like tissue paper and they are remarkably sturdy and won't fall to bits the first time you bend the spine. This is a traditional Trailblazer guide in every way - there are a minimum of colour pages - just a few interspersed through the book for detailing flora and fauna and one or two scenery shots.

But I'm a big believer in keeping things simple and by reducing the colour to a minimum, Trailblazer are able to pack so much more detail in here for the much less than the price of the National Trail guide for example. As with all recent Trailblazer releases, there are GPS waypoints and a supporting website that will keep readers up to date with any changes to the book or the route subsequent to publishing. At the time of writing this review the update page relates to the 2nd Edition, but this will be changed after publication. The real problem with the Offa's Dyke Path is the lack of a cost effective baggage courier along the route. There are plenty of companies who will arrange the whole holiday for you, but only one company that does baggage transfer and that charges about Â£30 per day - probably more expensive than your accommodation.

Read more › Offa's Dyke Path Self guided walking holidays | Northwestwalks.co.uk Offa's Dyke Path Self Guided Walking Holidays 14-17 day holidays, 177 miles, Price from �895 per person Reviews The 177 miles Offa's Dyke Path National Trail was opened in the summer of 1971, linking Sedbury Cliffs near Chepstow on the banks of the Severn estuary with the North Wales coastal town of Prestatyn. The Trail is named after, and often follows, the spectacular Offa's Dyke, a great frontier earthwork, which Offa the King of Mercia from 757 to 796 A.D. ordered to be constructed. The Trail passes through no less than eight different counties and crosses the border between England and Wales over 20 times. The Trail explores the tranquil Marches (as the border region is known) and passes through the Brecon Beacons National Park on the spectacular Hatterall Ridge, the highest point on the route at 700m/2300ft.

In addition it links no less than three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty � the Wye Valley, the Shropshire Hills and the Clwydian Hills. Offa's Dyke Path is the most attractive and varied of the National Trails. The route crosses high wild moorland, attractive, well cultivated wide river valleys and ancient woodland. It passes through historic towns and isolated hamlets. En route can be seen hill forts, castles, abbeys and surviving remains of the habitations of former occupants of the beautiful corridor of the path. The flora and fauna are as rich and as varied as the scenery. We operate self-guided walking holidays along Offa's Dyke Path in either direction, North to South or South to North. Typically you travel to the start of The Path and overnight (accommodation is included in the price of your holiday) ready to start your walk the following morning. Each night on the trail you stay in a different location in prebooked selected accommodation, with breakfast provided. Your luggage is transferred daily between your overnight accommodation. Book with Northwestwalks and you can be confident of a personal, professional and well organised service.

You can be assured we select quality walker friendly accommodation and provide a reliable daily luggage transfer service, plus a holiday pack which includes route information, accommodation details, route map, guidebook and the reassurance we can always be contacted should you need assistance Our self guided holidays are booked on an individual basis and therefore you can start your holiday on any date of your choice between April and October, and include rest days if required. To book your holiday choose an itinerary that meets your requirements, then click Book Your Holiday 13 Nights/12 Days Walking Offa's Dyke self guided holiday 13 nights accommodation including breakfast 12 days walking Baggage transfer along the route Total distance 177 miles Average daily distance 15 miles Shortest day 11 miles Click here to view itinerary *Single supplement - There are very few single rooms along the route and therefore the accommodation owners generally allocate a double or twin room for single occupancy. We can accommodate one single occupancy per booking for the average supplement of �25 per night. If you require additional single occupancy rooms, they will be charged at the extra cost incurred. This can be up to full double/twin room rate.

If you want to follow an itinerary that is not listed please contact us on 01257 424889 or email nww@northwestwalks.co.uk Extra nights/rest days can be added to your itinerary. Price from �50 per person per night. Holiday Information Carefully selected walker friendly accommodation. Breakfast each day. Luggage transfer between overnight accommodation. Route information and itinerary. Detailed instructions to find your accommodation. Guidebook and Harvey map for the group Leader. Emergency contact Tour availability This walking holiday is available from April to October. You can book your holiday to start on any date of your choice. Accommodation Accommodation is provided in carefully selected walker friendly B&Bs, Guest Houses, small Hotels and Inns. We try to book rooms with ensuite or private facilities every night, however in a few villages ensuite accommodation is limited and we may have to book rooms with shared facilities for one or two nights of your holiday. Meals Breakfast is included. Packed lunches can be readily purchased from your overnight accommodation or local shop. Evening meals can be purchased in local village pubs or overnight accommodation when a pub is not available.

Luggage transfer For the duration of the walk you luggage is transferred door to door between overnight accommodation by baggage transfer service, so all you need to carry is a day rucksack and its contents. Accommodation directions We provide detailed instructions to find you accommodation. Guide Books and Maps A guidebook and Harvey route maps are included. Offa's Dyke Path Route Description The 177 miles Offa's Dyke Path National Trail was opened in the summer of 1971, linking Sedbury Cliffs near Chepstow on the banks of the Severn estuary with the North Wales coastal town of Prestatyn. The Trail is named after, and often follows, the spectacular Offa's Dyke, a great frontier earthwork, which Offa the King of Mercia from 757 to 796 A.D. ordered to be constructed. The following is intended to provide further information about the route. Please note that all distances and heights are approximate and along with all the other information are provided as an aid to describe the route. Start of route Prestatyn, Denbighshire Direction of walk We describe the holiday in a South to North direction but you can also walk from North to South.

Grade This is a moderate to challenging trail with varied landscapes and terrain. The trail follows river valleys, lowland fields and crosses rolling hills and mountains. Terrain The terrain varies from riverside paths, country lanes, farmland, rolling hills and mountain paths. Waymarking The route is sensibly waymarked and generally easy to follow with the aid of a map and guidebook. Route description Sedbury Cliffs/Chepstow (height above sea level 10m) to Monmouth (20m). Offa�s Dyke Path (ODP) starts in England at Sedbury Cliffs (near to Chepstow) overlooking the Severn estuary. The Dyke itself is first met at the very start of the ODP, close to Sedbury Cliff. The ODP passes to the east of Chepstow with views of Chepstow Castle. From here the ODP continues its journey north on the eastern side of the River Wye high on the tree lined escarpment with a number of classic viewpoints, one of the most iconic being the view of Tintern Abbey from Devil�s Pulpit.

The Wye Valley is one of the finest lowland landscapes in Britain and was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1971. Along this section the ODP offers several route options which meet at Bigsweir. The ODP continues through woodland and at Redbrook it makes the first of many border crossings between England and Wales, and continues to Monmouth, a Welsh border town situated at the confluence of the Rivers Wye, Monnow and Trothy and perhaps best known as the birthplace of Henry V. Monmouth (20m) to Pandy (120m). From the town centre the ODP crosses over the 13th century Monnow Bridge, the only remaining medieval fortified bridge in Great Britain. Leaving behind the River Wye the ODP crosses quiet rolling farmland, mainly sheep country. It passes through woodland on route to Hendre, it then crosses farmland to the church at Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern, and continues to the village of Llantilio Crossenny. Continuing across the rolling farmland the ODP passes alongside the medieval White Castle on route to the village of Llangattock Lingoed and the medieval St.

Cadoc's Church. Approaching Pandy there are great views of the Black Mountains including Hatterrall Ridge over which the next part of the Trail passes. Pandy (120m) to Hay-on-Wye (90m). From Pandy a steady climb brings you to the first upland section of the ODP. It takes the route along Hatterrall Ridge in the Black Mountains, which are the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Once the first summit has been reached the ODP follows a well-defined ridge walk for about 11 miles to Hay Bluff, with stunning views to either side. The highest point on the ridge is Black Mountain (703m) and much of the ODP follows the ridge at over 600metres. A few miles into the ridge crossing it is possible to descend from 500metres and overnight at Longtown (140m) with its 12th century Norman Castle, the following morning transport will take you a short way back uphill from where you follow a footpath for a 300metre climb back onto the ridge.

Hay Bluff (677m) is the northern high point of the ridge from where the ODP descends into Hay-on-Wye (90m), famed for its numerous bookshops, the town also has the ruins of two Norman castles. Hay-on-Wye (90m) to Kington (170m). From Hay-on-Wye the ODP follows level paths alongside the River Wye, last seen in Monmouth. After a couple of miles the ODP leaves the river to begin a rolling route through farmland. The ODP climbs and contours around Little Mountain (approx. 320m) then descends into the village of Newchurch (240m) - the church here is always open and welcomes walkers and you can help yourself to a cup of tea for a small donation. The ODP climbs again into rolling hills before descending into in Gladestry (225m). The final stage across hill country before Kington is to follow the ODP over Hergest Ridge (426m) with wonderful views all-round. Crossing the ridge you pass an old racecourse which is exactly a mile around.

This area was also the inspiration for Arthur Conan Doyle�s Hound of the Baskervilles and Mike Oldfield�s second album Hergest Ridge. Descending from the ridge you join a road which leads to the historic market town of Kington. Kington (170m) to Knighton (175m). On this stage the ODP follows long stretches of well-preserved Dyke before it enters Knighton (Tref-y-Clawdd, meaning the town on the dyke in Welsh). On leaving Kington the ODP rise over Brandor Hill and its golf course. A high point of approx. 390m makes Kington Golf Course the highest in England. Soon after the ODP meets up with Offa�s Dyke on Rushock Hill (375m), from this point to Chirk Castle the ODP and Offa�s Dyke keep each other company for most of the journey. The ODP now continues its journey across the rolling countryside. The highest peak on this section is Hawthorn Hill (407m) a few miles before Knighton.

There are stunning views from the hill and one of Owain Glyndwr�s (the last native Welshman to hold the title Prince of Wales) famous battle sites can also be seen from here where he fought the English at the Battle of Pilleth, with the square clump of trees that mark the burial site of the soldiers. The final decent brings you down into the historic market town of Knighton, almost the half-way point along Offa�s Dyke Path and the home of the Offa�s Dyke Centre. Knighton (175m) to Brompton (140m). This next section of the ODP is generally regarded to be the toughest. This is the �switchback� section and the ODP rises and falls through the Shropshire Hills an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. However the views make the effort worthwhile. Shortly after leaving Knighton the ODP climbs into the Shropshire Hills, the highest point is 430metres as the ODP crosses Llanfair Hill alongside some of the best preserved sections of Offa�s Dyke. Just above Newcastle on Clun you are at the true midpoint of the ODP, with its midway marker, a good photo opportunity for all walkers.

The ODP descends into the Clun Valley. The ODP climbs into the hills again and at Hergan there is what seems to be a natural break in the Dyke, where the Shropshire Way joins the Dyke for a short distance. There are very few villages on this section but a number of hidden gems await the walker, one of these is Churchtown - at the foot of a narrow valley you find the church, but no sign of a town. Within a couple of miles the ODP crosses the Kerry Ridgeway trail from this point on it is level or downhill. Shortly before Brompton the ODP goes through the hamlet of Cwm and passes Mellington Hall, areas with a scattering of accommodation. Brompton (140m) to Buttington Bridge (70m). For the next couple of miles the ODP follows the Dyke across fairly level terrain as it passes to the right of Montgomery. The ODP then rises to pass Nantcribba and over the next few miles continues to rise to Beacon Ring (408m), the earthworks of the ancient hill fort on the summit of Long Mountain, with views down to Welshpool.

The ODP then descends to Buttington Bridge where you meet the River Severn, from where it is a short walk into the busy market town of Welshpool. Buttington Bridge (70m) to Trefonen (175m). This walk to Llanymynech is almost flat throughout and is the easiest section of the ODP. Leaving Buttington Bridge the ODP follows the Montgomery Canal and then River Severn for several miles before crossing fields to the village of Four Crosses. The ODP then follows the Montgomery Canal to the town of Llanymynech (75m) where the Wales � England border is the main street! After the flattest section the ODP, it returns to rising and falling via Llanymynech Hill (226m) and Moelydd (285m). The summit of Moelydd is one of the surprises of the day - the 360 degree views are stunning and a topascope helps you identify the many hills you see. Trefonen is just a short walk away. Trefonen (175m) to Llangollen (100m).

Continuing its way north across the rolling countryside the ODP passes a few miles from the town of Oswestry. Oswestry, or "Oswald's Tree", is generally thought to be derived from Oswald's death there and the legends surrounding it. Oswald lived in the 7th century and was the powerful King of Northumbria. He spread Christian religion in Northumbria and soon after his death came to be regarded as a saint. The 97 mile route from Holy Island to Heavenfield, in Northumbria, is named after St Oswald. The ODP continues across the rolling countryside then descends to the River Ceiriog at Castle Mill, close to Chirk. From the river the summer season path leads past Chirk Castle, set in 480 acres of parklands. With over 700 years of history, and as the last castle from this period still lived in today, you can visit if time allows. From the castle the ODP crosses a few miles of farmland towards Trevor where you have the option to cross Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, now listed as a World Heritage Site it is the largest aqueduct in Britain.

It is now only a few miles to Llangollen, a town situated on the River Dee, and there are two possible routes to take. Llangollen (100m) to Clwyd Gate (286m). The ODP is above Llangollen where it passes medieval castle Dinas Bran (320m), overlooking the town, at Trevor Rocks. A climb up from the town brings you to the route. This area is now part of the Clwydian Range, the series of hills and mountains before the ODP arrives at Prestatyn. For the next few miles the ODP contours round below the crags of Eglwyseg Mountain to the well named �World�s End� (300m). The ODP then passes over the moorland (475m) before descending through Llandegla Forest, to Llandegla (250m). For a short distance the route stays close to the River Alyn then climbs bank into Clwydian Range and for much of the time you are following the heather clad ridge that is so prominent in this area to Clwyd Gate.

Clwyd Gate (286m) to Bodfari (40m). From Clwyd Gate the ODP continues along the ridge over the hills and mountains of the Clwydian Range. It passes over or beside a string of ancient hill forts on its journey including Foel Fenlli, Moel Arthur and Penycloddiau. The key landmark on this section of the ODP is Jubilee Tower on the top of Moel Famau (554m). The tower was built to celebrate the 50th year of the reign of George 3rd in 1810. The summit of Moel Famau is also the high point on this section of the ODP. This section affords magnificent views westwards across the Vale of Clwyd to Snowdonia and eastwards to the English border and beyond. The ODP descends from the hills into the valley and the village of Bodfari. Bodfari (40m) to Prestatyn (5m). For the next few miles the ODP continues over the last remaining, but lower, hills of the Clwydian Range to Rhuallt village.

The ODP continues over the rolling countryside and views of the sea open up as you approach journeys end. Fabulous views of Snowdonia and the North Wales coast are seen from Prestatyn Hillside before you descend into the town and onwards to the end of the ODP at Prestatyn beach. Traditionally at this point boots and socks are removed and a walk into the Irish Sea marks the end of your journey and gives some relief to those tired feet. Travel UK bus and train journeys can be planned online at By train Train timetables can be viewed and tickets purchased online at Prices can vary greatly and reduced price �Advanced tickets� are sometimes available and can be purchased from approximately 12 weeks prior to departure. To/From Chepstow Travel by train to/from Chepstow via connecting stations. The station is a short walk or taxi journey from your accommodation. Approximate journey times � From London Paddington 2.5 hours Approximate journey times � From Manchester 3.5 hours To/From Prestatyn Travel by train to/from Prestatyn via connecting stations. The station is a short walk from your accommodation.

Approximate journey times � From London Euston 2.5 hours Approximate journey times � From Manchester 1.5 hours By bus Bus timetables are available to view online at To/From Chepstow The bus stop in Chepstow is a short walk or taxi journey from your accommodation. To/From Prestatyn The bus stop in Prestatyn is a short walk from your accommodation. By Air Trains run from Heathrow to London Paddington where you change trains to Chepstow. Approximate journey times 3.25 hours. To/From Prestatyn Trains run from Prestatyn to London where, depending on routing, you change to tubes or train to Heathrow. Approximate journey times 4 hours. Manchester Airport Trains run to/from Manchester Airport via connecting stations to Chepstow. Approximate journey times 4 hours. To/From Prestatyn Trains run to/from Manchester Airport via central Manchester to Prestatyn. Approximate journey times 2 hours. Equipment List Please remember to 1. Keep the weight of your day pack and walking/hiking equipment to a comfortable weight for you to carry 2.

Keep your suitcase/luggage under the maximum transfer weight (Maximum: 20kg (44lbs)). The following checklist is an aid to help you with your packing Required Walking/Hiking boots (worn in before your holiday) Technical walking socks e.g. liner and thick outer socks Trekking trousers (not jeans/denim) Baselayer T-shirts and/or casual shirts Fleece or warm jumper Spare warm layer (to carry in your rucksack) Warm gloves Offa's Dyke Path Offa's Dyke Path Name Offa's Dyke Path (ODP) Length of trail 285 km, 177 miles Length in days 14 days Start of trail Chepstow Traildino grading EW, Easy walk, nature trail 177 miles, 282 km, 14 days National Trail In two weeks time you can walk the almost 300 kilometer long border between England and Wales. Not much of a “Great Wall” really. Bits and pieces of the supposed defence of the 8th century Welsh King Offa are left.

But you will enjoy a very varied landscapes: the floodplains of the Severn, the forests of the Wye Valley, the rugged Black Mountains, and the cozy book town Hay-on-Wye and the Brecon Beacons. Notorious on this route are the many styles you have to climb between the meadows. Good practise for our muscles, keep it at that. The 177 miles, 282 km long trail starts at the seaside and ends at the seaside, inspiring some walkers to carry a bottle of seawater from Chepstow to Prestatyn. The variety is a strong USP of this beloved trail. Each day is different from the one before, the shared denominator being the colour green. But that's true of Britain as a whole. Be sure to start in good shape, however, if you want to finish the trail in one go. John P May 2012 Rate 9 Positive Very varied route with some great highlights such as the walk along the Hatterall Ridge, down the sylvan Wye (inspiration for Wordsworth), and across Telford's Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Negative Clwydian range did my knees in!

Aaron Barnes June 2013 Rate 10 Positive Very scenic long distance path. Crosses two mountain ranges and has a plethora of historic interest. Very pastoral scenery which changes significantly each day. Highly recommended. Negative Short section in the middle that is a little bland compared to the rest of the trail. Not an easy trail to walk, many short stiff hills to negotiate each day. Henk Nouws August 1986 Rate 9 Positive Almost no roads. It's such fun to walk over meadows, from hedge to hedge. The path was very diverse: high moorlands, but also lowlands and canals. Strange houses and little villages. Negative The pubs always were closed when we came by. Offa’s Dyke Accommodation | Walden Cottage, Prestatyn, Denbighshire North Wales Offa’s Dyke Accommodation December 8, 2013 News 2 Comments Five star cottage to stay at the Offa’s Dyke Path walk. Walden Cottage is perfectly situated for those looking to complete or start the famous Offa’s Dyke Pathway.

Situated between the sea and the mountainside and are right on the edge of the Offas Dyke Path which starts/ends in Prestatyn and continues right to Chepstow! So whether you are looking for a coastal stroll or a hike up the mountain, you are sure to find something to suit you. Places to stay for the Offa’s Dyke Walk Walden Cottage, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, North Wales. 2 Responses to Offa’s Dyke Accommodation Steve

Question: What starts in Chepstow and ends in Prestatyn?
Answer: Offa's Dyke