The best hikes from bus stations around Llanidloes

Our guide features three distinct hiking trails that start conveniently from the bus station in Llanidloes. These routes offer a great way to explore the area without needing a car.

While the routes in this specific guide are rated moderate to difficult, Llanidloes itself offers many easier local walks. For a moderate introduction, consider the Llanidloes – St Idloes Parish Church loop from Llanidloes, which is just under 8 km and explores the town's surroundings.

The terrain around Llanidloes is varied, reflecting its position at the foot of the Cambrian Mountains. You can expect a mix of rolling hills, forest paths, and open moorland. Trails often follow river valleys, like the Severn, and can include some ascents, offering panoramic views. For example, the Llanidloes – Clywedog Dam loop from Llanidloes involves significant elevation gain.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, meaning you'll end up back at your starting point near the Llanidloes bus station. This includes the Llanidloes – Start of Climb Up the Severn loop from Llanidloes, which offers a good taste of the local landscape.

Most trails in the Llanidloes area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature conservation areas. Always follow the Countryside Code and clean up after your pet. The Hafren Forest, accessible via some routes, is generally welcoming to dogs.

While not directly on the routes in this guide, the wider Llanidloes area is rich in water features. The Hafren Forest, a short distance from town, is home to the impressive Hafren Cascades Boardwalk and the Severn-Break-its-Neck waterfall. The Llanidloes – Clywedog Dam loop from Llanidloes will take you to the impressive Clywedog Dam and its scenic reservoir.

Hikes from Llanidloes bus station offer glimpses of the town's historic charm and natural beauty. You can explore the town of Llanidloes itself, known for its timber-framed market hall. Routes often follow the River Severn, and the challenging Llanidloes – Clywedog Dam loop from Llanidloes will lead you to the magnificent Clywedog Dam, the tallest concrete dam in Britain.

The routes in this guide are generally moderate to difficult, making them more suitable for families with older, experienced children or those used to longer walks. For younger children, consider shorter, easier local walks around Llanidloes or within Hafren Forest, which has accessible trails like the Cascades Walk.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best times for hiking around Llanidloes. Spring brings vibrant greenery and wildflowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is also pleasant, though trails can be busier. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear due to potentially wet and cold conditions, especially at higher elevations in the Cambrian Mountains.

While the River Severn flows through Llanidloes and is featured on some routes, wild swimming opportunities directly adjacent to these specific bus station trails are limited and often not recommended due to currents or private land. However, the wider region, particularly around the upper reaches of the Severn and other rivers, may offer spots for experienced wild swimmers. Always prioritize safety and check local conditions.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the trails, the stunning panoramic views of the Cambrian Mountains, and the sense of wilderness. Many appreciate the convenience of starting directly from town and the diverse landscapes, from river valleys to forest paths.