WALES Coast Path presents a fantastic selection of new circular routes, which is perfect for the upcoming autumn season. With 45 fresh routes introduced across the Wales Coast Path and National Trails, this initiative, led by travel writer Paddy Dillon and local trail officers, makes exploring easier and more enjoyable.
Circular routes, which start and end at the same point, are favoured for their convenience. There is no need to double back or rely on public transport. Despite their popularity, such routes haven’t always been easy to find.
Paddy Dillon, an experienced outdoor writer and photographer, has created these new routes, which include 33 along the Wales Coast Path and 12 more on Offa’s Dyke and Glyndwr’s Way. The Wales Coast Path covers an impressive 870 miles of uninterrupted coastline and is the world’s first path to circle the entire country coastline. Dillon has written and illustrated over 100 guidebooks and contributed to many others, ensuring these routes are well designed.
The Oystermouth and Mumbles Head Circular Walk in Swansea is a standout route, covering around 5 miles. It offers spectacular coastal views and historical landmarks. Starting from the Dairy Car Park in Mumbles, the route follows the Wales Coast Path and passes by Mumbles Head Lighthouse and Oystermouth Castle. The Dairy Car Park is conveniently located for walkers, and daily bus services connect Mumbles with Swansea, making it easily accessible.
In Carmarthenshire, the Llansteffan Circular Walk also covers 5 miles and is ideal for those who appreciate woodland paths and estuary views. Llansteffan, takes you through woodland and offers breathtaking views of the River Towy estuary. A highlight of this walk is Llansteffan Castle, on a hill overlooking the estuary. The castle ruins provide panoramic views of the River Towy, the Gwendraeth Estuary, Pembrey Forest, and even the Gower and Worm’s Head. The walk continues along the Wales Coast Path to Scott’s Bay and Wharley Point. Llansteffan is well connected with daily bus services from Carmarthen, and parking is conveniently available near The Green.
The Conwy and Dwygyfylchi Circular Walk is a more extensive option, great for people who want a challenge. Spanning 9 miles, this route begins and ends at the historic World Heritage Site of Conwy Castle and its surrounding town walls. The walk takes you behind Conwy Mountain, through Sychnant Pass, and into Dwygyfylchi. It follows the Wales Coast Path around the Penmaenbach headland, offering an amazing walking experience and panoramic coastal views. Parking is available at several locations, including Conwy Railway Station, Vicarage Gardens, Morfa Bach, and coastal sites such as Morfa Beach and Beacons Way. The route is easily accessible via daily bus services and North Wales Coast train services.
The Porthcawl and Merthyr Mawr Circular Walk, covering 6.5 miles, explores the South Wales coast and the Merthyr Mawr Warren National Nature Reserve. This reserve is home to the highest dune in Wales, the Big Dipper, and spans across 840 acres including sand dunes, grasslands, saltmarsh, beach, and woodland. Starting from Newton, the route passes Candleston Castle and follows the Wales Coast Path to the Ogmore River before returning to Porthcawl. Parking is available at Newton Beach and Candleston Castle, with daily bus services connecting Porthcawl and Bridgend with stops at Heol-y-Graig on Bridgend Road.
Several other remarkable walks designed by Paddy Dillon, in collaboration with local trail officers, highlight the breathtaking coastline of Wales. One such route begins in Prestatyn, Denbighshire, merging the Wales Coast Path and Offa’s Dyke Path. This trail takes you through the ancient village of Gwaenysgor, known for its prehistoric sites. The final stretch follows the Wales Coast Path through sand dunes, returning to Prestatyn.
Another captivating route circles the Chirk Castle estate in Wrexham, offering an optional visit to the historic castle itself. The walk provides stunning views of the Chirk Viaduct and Aqueduct, impressive structures that elegantly span the river.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the trek connecting Chepstow and Tintern in Monmouthshire reveals the spectacular Wye Valley, spanning across 13 miles. This walk features landmarks such as Chepstow Castle, the old town bridge, the Tidenham Tunnel, and Tintern Abbey. The trail offers a blend of historical sites and picturesque scenery.
The Wales Coast Path offers valuable information to help both travellers and locals in discovering the beauty of Wales. It provides detailed guides on destinations along the coast, with recommendations on attractions, activities, and local points of interest. This resource is designed to help you make the most of your journey, whether you’re exploring scenic spots, historical sites, or cultural landmarks along Wales stunning coastline.
