Denbighshire Circular Walks – Wales Coast Path
At only 7 miles / 12km, this is the shortest section of the Wales Coast Path (behind Powys) along the north east Wales coastline. Within Denbighshire county, this section of the Wales Coast Path starts at Gronant Dunes on it’s eastern border with Flintshire. It then mainly follows urban promenade through the coastal town of Prestatyn, where it joins the Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail (marked by a tall silver sculpture on the promenade). From there the path goes through several other seaside towns like Rhyl, Kinmel Bay, before reaching Hortons Nose on its western border with Conwy county.
Denbighshire may be the shortest section of the path but these circulars will take you through a variety of landscapes like vegetated sand dunes, lots of green open spaces and woodland. You’ll also have the opportunity to wind your way through hidden villages, seaside towns and into the historic town of Rhuddlan, famous for its riverside castle and ancient parliament site.
These circular walks off the Wales Coast Path are between 3 to 5 miles with very little elevation, ideal of a gentle stroll. You can use public transport to get to the start of these walks due to the trains and daily buses linking the coastal towns of Rhyl and Prestatyn with the inland town of Rhuddlan.
Prestatyn and Coed y Morfa
Start this 7.4 miles / 11.8km walk at Prestatyn railway station and climb the footbridge for lovely views before heading toward the town centre. At the mini roundabout, take a right onto Bridge Road and glide through the traffic lights, passing by little bus station as you stroll down Gas Works Lane.
Keep straight along the tarmac cycleway, enjoying the wild brambles that line your path. Soon, you’ll pass a barrier and veer right by the sports fields of Ysgol Penmorfa, where you might spot Belted Galloway cattle grazing in the summer. Don’t miss the viewing platform overlooking the Prestatyn Wetland.
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When you reach a triangular junction, choose between a scenic waterside walk or a peaceful stroll through community woodland—both offer chances to learn about local wildlife. For the waterside route, keep straight until you reach the Prestatyn Gutter and take a left. If you prefer the woodland, turn left at the junction and follow the path to the Prestatyn Gutter.
Next, head right onto Winchester Drive and then onto the busy Ffordd Penrhwylfa, sharing the road with cyclists. Make your way to Ffrith Park or Y Ffrith, a charming spot developed in 1933. Follow the Wales Coast Path along the sea defences, enjoying views of Rhyl.
As you head back to Prestatyn, spot the stunning steel sculpture ‘Dechrau a Diwedd’ on the promenade, marking the start or finish of the Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail. Finally, follow Bastion Road back to the station, where you’ll find a wooden sculpture of ‘Rhodri the Rambler.’
Read detailed route description for Prestatyn and Coed Morfa
TOP TIP!
At Coed y Morfa, you have the option to either follow the Prestatyn Gutter around Coed y Morfa Community Woodland or take short cut through the woodland, saving 250 meters of walking find this route here – Coed y Morfa Short Cut
Prestatyn and Gronant
Kick off your 7.4 mile/ 11.8km journey at Prestatyn Railway Station, where you’ll also see the acorn marker disks showing you the way to the Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail. This delightful route takes you through the charming village of Gwaenysgor, lush woodlands, and stunning coastal scenery, making it the perfect excuse to get outdoors.
Begin your walk by soaking in the views from the footbridge, then follow the Offa’s Dyke National Trail acorn markers as you head towards Gwaenysgor. Enjoy a gentle climb and maybe stop by the local pub for a refreshing break!
As you wander through the hills, wooden steps will guide you through gorse-covered slopes and trees, revealing breathtaking coastal vistas. Keep your camera ready for those postcard-worthy shots. Next, make your way to Gronant, where you’ll hop onto Wales Coast Path. Here, the sandy dunes and marshes are alive with wildlife, so keep an eye out for the rare natterjack toads!
On your return to Prestatyn, revel in the stunning sea views and don’t miss the towering sculpture ‘Dechrau a Diwedd,’ on the promenade marking the start or finish of the Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind, explore nature, and discover hidden gems along the way.
TOP TIP
You can park your car at several locations around Prestatyn, choose from the railway station, Parc Prestatyn, Nova Centre or Central Beach. Daily bus services link Prestatyn with all points along the coast between Flint and Llandudno. Buses also link Gronant and Presthaven Sands with Prestatyn.
Read detailed route description for Prestatyn and Gronant
Rhuddlan and Kimnel Bay
Embark on a delightful 7.3 mile/11.8km adventure starting from Rhuddlan’s High Street, where history and nature collide. This flat, easy route takes you along the tidal River Clwyd, showcasing the impressive Rhuddlan Castle and the site of the ancient parliament.
Your journey begins with a glimpse of remnants of a building where the Statute of Rhuddlan was passed in the 15th century. Follow the path beside the river, where stunning views of the Clwydian Range and distant Snowdonia await. The path is well-marked and offers a lovely cycleway, perfect for leisurely strolls.
As you near Kinmel Bay, choose between exploring the lush Glan Morfa Community Woodland or taking a shortcut that saves some time. Either option leads you to beautiful riverside scenery, including the charming Rhyl Miniature Railway.
Cross the modern Pont y Ddraig footbridge which carries the Wales Coast Path over Rhyl Harbour for panoramic coastal views before wandering through protected sand dunes, where you might spot the whirling wind turbines in the distance.
The Wales Coast Path invites you to extend your adventure all the way to Abergele, Colwyn Bay or Llandudno, but our route takes you back inland, meandering through residential and mobile homes and a caravan park.
Don’t forget to check out the historic Rhuddlan Bridge, which dates back to the 13th century, before finishing your walk back at High Street. If you have the time, visit the ancient 13th century Rhuddlan castle which is easily visited by following Ffordd y Castell, otherwise finish the walk back on the High Street.
Read detailed route description for Rhuddlan and Kinmel Bay
TOP TIP
You have 2 options for this walk – Rhuddlan to Kinmel Bay 1 includes a loop around the Glan Morfa Community Woodland whilst Rhuddlan Kinmel 2 short cuts past it, saving 1 km of walking.
We hope you will enjoy these lovely Denbighshire circular walking routes, there’s lots to see and breaking the coast path down into shorter circular routes is a great way to experience more of the culture and history of Denbighshire.
There are many more exciting walking routes available to visit across Wales including all of the fabulous Wales Coast Path Circular Routes.
By National Trails & The Wales Coast Path
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.
