The best walks and hikes around Old Colwyn
4.5
(404)
5,515
hikers
170
hikes
Hiking around Old Colwyn offers a diverse landscape characterized by its coastal position along the North Wales Coast Path. The region features a mix of sandy beaches, promenades, and ancient woodlands such as Fairy Glen, which follows the Afon Colwyn. Inland, limestone hills like Bryn Euryn provide elevated viewpoints over the bay and surrounding countryside, with trails winding through grassland and wooded areas.
Best hiking trails around Old Colwyn
- The most popular hiking route is Colwyn Bay Pier โ Conwy Beach loop from Colwyn Bay, a 7.3 miles (11.8 km) moderate trail that takes about 3 hours to complete. This route offers expansive views of the Irish Sea and connects coastal landmarks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is NCN Route 5: North Wales Coast โ Pensarn Beach loop from Llanddulas, a moderate 5.4 miles (8.7 km) path. This trail follows the North Wales Coast Path, providing continuous sea views and access to beaches.
- Local hikers also love the Conwy Beach โ Rhos-on-Sea Promenade loop from Colwyn Bay, a 5.8 miles (9.3 km) trail leading through coastal promenades and sandy shores, often completed in about 2 hours 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Old Colwyn is defined by coastal paths, ancient woodlands, and limestone hills, offering varied terrain. The network of routes provides options for different ability levels, from leisurely seaside strolls to more challenging ascents with panoramic views.
- The routes in Old Colwyn are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 370 reviews. More than 5,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Old Colwyn's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
5.0
(5)
51
hikers
11.7km
03:00
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
50
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
55
hikers
4.67km
01:13
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
29
hikers
11.4km
02:56
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
20
hikers
16.7km
04:32
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Colwyn Bay Beach is a golden, three-mile playground perfect for seaside strutting! With its sleek, modern promenade and soft sands, itโs a haven for: Watersports: Ideal for jet-skiing or kayaking. Relaxation: Plenty of space for sunbathing and sandcastles.
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"This fascinating building is thought to be the smallest church in the British Isles, seating only 6 people. It is named after St. Trillo, a 6th century Celtic saint who built his cell here. The age of the present building is not known, as it has been heavily repaired over the centuries. St. Trilloโs original cell is more likely to have been made of wood and wattle, although he may have built a wall of stones gathered from the beach to protect it from the wind." You can find out more here; Source: https://colwynbayheritage.org.uk/st-trillos-chapel-rhos-on-sea-heritage-walk/
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Can be combined with a ride on the main railway along the north Wales coast (handy in the event of a problem with your bike or simply to extend your trip length).
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rhos prom , lovely place and plenty of places to grab a coffee
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Rhos on Sea is described as neat, pristine and peaceful. There is a long seaside promenade and great views.
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The unspoilt beach is a walkerโs paradise. Part of the Welsh Coastal Path, Pensarnโs promenade provides beautiful views out to the Irish Sea. Great cycle paths, biking along the coastal path is really good.
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The Little Orme (Welsh: Rhiwledyn, also known as Trwyn y Fuwch, Trwyn y Gogarth and Y Gogarth Fach) is 141 metres (463 ft) in height, and is a HuMP (having a minimum Hundred Metre Prominence). It is one of two headlands situated at either end of Llandudno Bay, in Conwy County Borough, Wales. The other, larger, headland is the Great Orme. It has two summits, the higher with a trig point. The cliffs are a popular challenge for highly experienced rock climbers. The Coast Guard Rescue Unit use the Little Orme for training. Otherwise, it is a popular sightseeing location and walking/hiking site. The Little Orme was inhabited during the Mesolithic and Neolithic eras, notably the Pant y Wennol cave. A small hoard of Iron Age Celtic metalwork was found in a cave on the Little Orme. The medieval chapel of Blessed Mary of Penrhyn, abandoned in 1930 and now in ruins, is at the foot of the Little Orme in the grounds of Penrhyn Hall at Penrhyn Bay. On 14 April 1587, printing material for Catholic literature was found in a cave on the Little Orme, where it had been used by the recusant Robert Pugh (squire of Penrhyn Hall) and his Chaplain Father William Davies to print Y Drych Cristianogawl (The Christian Mirror), the first book to be printed in Wales. They had taken refuge there during the persecution of Catholics instigated by Queen Elizabeth I in May 1586. The Royal Artillery coastal gunnery school, 198 battery, was posted to Little Orme during the Second World War. Target practice was undertaken from the headland to anchored boats, and unspent ammunition and unexploded shells may still be encountered offshore. Gun emplacements and ancillary buildings were in situ until at least the early 1960s, but the site has since been 'landscaped'.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Old Colwyn?
There are over 170 hiking routes available around Old Colwyn, offering a wide range of experiences for different fitness levels. These include 84 easy routes, 77 moderate routes, and 12 more challenging trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Old Colwyn?
Old Colwyn offers diverse terrain, from gentle coastal paths along the North Wales Coast Path and sandy beaches to ancient woodlands like Fairy Glen and limestone hills such as Bryn Euryn. You'll find a mix of flat promenades, wooded dells, and ascents to viewpoints.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Old Colwyn?
Yes, Old Colwyn has many family-friendly options, particularly along the coastal promenades and beaches. These routes are generally flat and accessible. For example, the Rhos-on-Sea Harbour โ Conwy Beach loop from Colwyn Bay is an easy, shorter option suitable for families.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Old Colwyn?
Many trails around Old Colwyn are dog-friendly, especially the coastal paths and promenades. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves like Fairy Glen or Bryn Euryn, and to check local signage for any restrictions, especially during nesting seasons or on certain beaches.
Are there any circular walks around Old Colwyn?
Yes, Old Colwyn features several excellent circular walks. A popular choice is the Colwyn Bay Pier โ Conwy Beach loop from Colwyn Bay, which offers expansive sea views. Another option is the Conwy Beach โ Rhos-on-Sea Promenade loop from Colwyn Bay, providing a pleasant coastal experience.
What are the best places for scenic views or landmarks along the trails?
For stunning panoramic views, hike up Bryn Euryn Nature Reserve, which offers vistas of the bay and surrounding countryside. Along the coast, the North Wales Coast Path provides continuous sea views. You can also explore historical sites like Conwy Castle and Conwy Town Walls, which are accessible from some coastal routes.
Are there any ancient woodlands or nature reserves to explore?
Absolutely. Old Colwyn is home to Fairy Glen Local Nature Reserve, an ancient woodland along the Afon Colwyn, perfect for exploring a wooded dell. Nearby, Bryn Euryn Nature Reserve offers a mix of grassland and woodland with historical ruins at its summit. For more information on Fairy Glen, you can visit colwynbayheritage.org.uk.
Is public transport available to access hiking routes in Old Colwyn?
Yes, Old Colwyn is well-served by public transport, making it easy to access many hiking routes. The town has bus services connecting to nearby areas, and the railway station in Colwyn Bay provides links along the North Wales coast, allowing access to various starting points for coastal and inland walks.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Old Colwyn?
Parking is generally available in and around Old Colwyn, particularly near the promenade and key attractions. Many coastal walks can be accessed from public car parks in Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check local maps or komoot route details for designated parking areas.
What is the best time of year to hike in Old Colwyn?
The best time to hike in Old Colwyn is typically from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. Summer offers pleasant coastal breezes, while spring and autumn provide beautiful colours in the woodlands and fewer crowds. Winter walks are also possible, especially along the coast, but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Old Colwyn?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 370 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse coastal scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of routes for various abilities. The blend of sea views, historical sites, and natural reserves is frequently highlighted.
Are there places to stop for refreshments along the trails?
Yes, Old Colwyn and the adjacent Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea areas offer numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants, especially along the promenades and in the town centres. Many coastal routes pass directly through or near these amenities, providing convenient stops for refreshments or a meal.
Most popular attractions around Old Colwyn
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