The best walks and hikes around Bodelwyddan

There are nearly 200 hiking routes to explore around Bodelwyddan. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, with about half of the trails rated as easy and the other half as moderate.

Yes, the region offers many options for families. The recently redeveloped Bodelwyddan Country Park is an excellent choice, with nearly one and a half miles of new, disabled-friendly pathways through woodlands and meadows. For a short, easy loop, consider the Rhuddlan Castle loop from Rhyl, which is just over 4 miles (6.7 km).

Many trails in the area are suitable for walking with a dog, but always check for local restrictions, especially in nature reserves or near livestock. The Rhuddlan Nature Reserve is a popular spot for a short, dog-friendly walk with views of the castle. Remember to keep your dog under control and clean up after them.

Yes, the nearby coastline provides great opportunities for hiking. You can explore trails that take you along the shore and through the Kinmel Dunes Nature Reserve. The Prestatyn Stone Circle – Stairs to Colwyn Bay Beach loop from Kinmel Bay is a moderate route that combines coastal paths with historical sights.

The area features several beautiful woodland walks. Bodelwyddan Country Park itself has newly planted woodlands with accessible paths. For a more immersive forest experience, Gwydir Forest Park is a highly-regarded option a short drive away, offering serene lakes and well-marked trails. Y Graig Nature Reserve also provides a lovely walk through steep woodland to a limestone outcrop with great views.

While the immediate Bodelwyddan area is known more for its rivers and hills, the popular Dyserth Waterfall is nearby. It features a trail that leads over and behind the waterfall, with a picnic area and cafe. It's a great addition to a day of exploring the wider region.

Besides the trails starting in Bodelwyddan, hikers often explore several key locations in the surrounding area:

• Gwydir Forest Park: A local favorite known for its forested mountains, serene lakes, and waymarked hiking trails.
• Dyserth Waterfall: A stunning natural attraction with a short trail leading around the falls.
• Rhuddlan Nature Reserve: Offers easy, flat paths with views of Rhuddlan Castle and interesting sculptures.
• Y Graig Nature Reserve: A highly-rated spot with steep woodland paths leading to a wildflower meadow and excellent views.

Several local walking spots offer free parking. Bod Petryal is a quiet location with a good-sized free car park and picnic benches, serving as a starting point for a couple of loop walks. Rhuddlan Nature Reserve also has a small, free car park. Always check local signage as parking availability can change.

Bodelwyddan is accessible by bus services that connect it to nearby towns like Rhyl, St Asaph, and Denbigh. Rhyl has a mainline train station with connections across North Wales and to the rest of the UK. From there, you can take a local bus to start your hike.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with over 2,000 hikers having explored the area. Reviewers often praise the variety of landscapes, from the peaceful riverside paths along the Afon Gele and Afon Elwy to the scenic coastal sections.

Absolutely. The region is rich in history. You can explore routes around the medieval Rhuddlan Castle, which played a significant role in Welsh history. The Statute of Rhuddlan Plaque – Rhuddlan Castle loop from Rhuddlan is a great example, combining a countryside walk with historical points of interest.

Following a major redevelopment, the park now features almost one and a half miles of new, accessible limestone-topped pathways. These trails are designed to be disabled-friendly and connect the lower parkland with the upper woodland, offering views across the Vale of Clwyd. You'll also find interpretation boards detailing the area's history and nature.