Rail2Trail: Offa’s Dyke Circular Walking Routes Accessible by Rail
Offa’s Dyke is a historic earthwork that roughly follows the border between England and Wales. Constructed in the 8th century by King Offa of Mercia, it stretches for approximately 177 miles (285 km) and is one of the most impressive ancient monuments in Britain.
However, for those of you who are looking for a shorter walk, Offa’s Dyke offers a wonderful array of options for ‘spin-off’ walks along the entire path.
We have highlighted eight circular walks that are all accessible by rail, opening up this historic path to so many more people. Each trail is carefully chosen to showcase the unique landscapes and historical significance of Offa’s Dyke, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable outing for walkers of all ages.
Rail2Trail: Offa’s Dyke Path Chepstow to Sedbury
A walk from Chepstow to Tutshill and onwards to the southern terminus of Offa’s Dyke Path near Sedbury. Great views over Severn Estuary from the start/end of Offa’s Dyke at Sedbury Cliff and the chance to explore majestic Chepstow Castle.
Distance: 5.3 miles / 8.5km
Start: Chepstow Railway Station
Rail2Trail Offa’s Dyke Path Chepstow Tintern Circular
A varied walk from Chepstow and its fine castle, along the Wye Valley Walk to Tintern and its abbey ruins, returning on the Offa’s Dyke Path.
Distance: 13 miles / 21km
Start: Chepstow Railway Station
Rail2Trail Offa’s Dyke Path Chirk Castle Summer Circular
A walk exploring a splendid estate surrounding Chirk Castle, including a seldom-seen part of Offa’s Dyke. (Note that this route follows a path that can only be used from April to September.)
Distance: 5.6 miles / 9km
Start: Chirk Railway Station
Rail2Trail: Offa’s Dyke Path Chirk Circular
A walk outside the estate surrounding Chirk Castle, with an option to visit the castle from a stretch of the Offa’s Dyke Path, finishing Thomas Telford’s remarkable feat of engineering completed in 1801, the Pontcysyllte aqueduct.
Distance: 6.6 miles / 10.6km (with 1 mile / 1.6km extension)
Start: Chirk Railway Station
Rail2Trail: Offa’s Dyke Path Knighton Norton Circular
A walk from Knighton along country roads to Norton, returning along a fine stretch of the Offa’s Dyke Path. A walk of long gradual climbs and rolling descents, along quiet country lanes, stone tracks and through grassy fields, returning alongside a spectacular section the Offa’s Dyke monument. On a fine day you can see the Black Mountains in the distance.
Distance: 9.3 miles / 15km
Start: Knighton Railway Station
Rail2Trail: Offa’s Dyke Path Knighton Stowe Circular
A walk following part of the Heart of Wales Line, starting in the pretty town of Knighton where you can find out about the Offa’s Dyke ancient monument in the Offa’s Dyke Centre. Cross a small footbridge on the border between England and Wales where you can stand with one foot in each country!
Distance: 6.8 miles / 11km
Start: Knighton Railway Station
Rail2Trail: Offa’s Dyke Path Prestatyn Hills Circular
This walk takes in the Prestatyn – Dyserth Way and the northern end/start of the Offa’s Dyke Path. There is a leisurely incline along a disused rail line followed by gradual climbs through wooded paths, country lanes and short exhilarating ascents to reach narrow hillside paths for your return. You can extend your walk to visit the Dyserth waterfall.
Distance: 6 miles / 9.7km (with 2.2 miles / 3.5km extension)
Start: Prestatyn Railway Station
Rail2Trail: Offas Dyke Path Welshpool Circular
A walk along the Montgomery Canal, followed by a stretch of the Offa’s Dyke Path over Long Mountain.
The historic market town of Welshpool is a perfect base for exploring Mid Wales and the nearby section of Offa’s Dyke Path. This circular route takes you along a mixture of the Montgomery Canal, and gives extensive views from Long Mountain and the hillfort of Caer Digoll or Beacon Ring.
Distance: 8 miles / 13km
Start: The Old Station, Welshpool
We hope you have enjoyed these Offa’s Dyke Circular Walking Routes, it’s great to have a list of routes that are available to those travelling by rail, a fun way to explore the countryside.
There are many more exciting walking routes available to visit across Wales including all of the fabulous Welsh Coast Path Circular Routes.
By National Trails Wales
Natural Resources Wales manages an extensive network of trails, including three National Trails: Glyndŵr’s Way, Offa’s Dyke Path, and the 870 mile long Wales Coast Path. These trails offer a variety of walking, cycling, and horse-riding routes through some of the most stunning landscapes in Wales. Their commitment to maintaining these trails ensures that visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and historical significance of the Welsh countryside.
