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Offa's Dyke - Northern Section

Walk the Northern Section of the Offa's Dyke Path. This covers the route's first 50 miles southwards from Prestatyn to Chirk Castle.

  • Wales

  • 7 nights
  • Half Board
  • Long Distance Paths

  • Apr

    Jul

    Sep

Moderate

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Walking grade

Grade 5

Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Follow the first 50 miles of the route southwards from Prestatyn to Chirk Castle.
  • Pass through the highest of the Clwydian Hills and cross the Dee Valley.
  • Walk on heather clad hills and sites of iron age forts.
  • Descend to World’s End, crossing Pontcysyllte aqueduct towards Chirk.
  • Distances covered each day are less on this section than the others, so the days may be shorter. If time allows, afternoons will be spent sightseeing.
  • Enjoy views of the Clwydean Hills and the relatively modern aqueducts on the Llangollen Canal.

The Offa’s Dyke path runs for 177 miles from Prestatyn on the North Wales coast to Chepstow on the Severn Estuary. The route follows the ancient barrier which was built by Offa, the King of Mercia, in the 8th century to protect his kingdom from his rivals in what is now Wales.

You will walk each section from north to south over six days, returning each night to your comfortable hotel.

The dyke transverses hugely diverse scenery along its route. Some might prefer the views of the Clwydian Hills and the relatively modern aqueducts on the Llangollen canal that the northern section offers. Others who walk the mid-section through the Welsh Marches may consider that the more rolling countryside and appealing market towns offer a very different but equally appealing experience. However to some the southern section through the Black Mountains past the ruins of Tintern Abbey and Llanthony Priory will be the highlight. We suggest you try all three sections before deciding on your favourite. If you walk all three routes the total walking distance is about 186 miles, which is slightly longer than the official path. This is due to short walks to and from the trail. 

The Northern Section

You’ll walk the first 50 miles or so of the route southwards from Prestatyn to Chirk Castle on the edge of England, passing through the highest of the Clwydian Hills and crossing the Dee Valley. Walk on heather clad hills, past iron age forts, before descending to World’s End and crossing the Pontcysyllte aqueduct towards Chirk, the end of your trail.

You may wish to look at the other sections we offer; Offa's Dyke - Central Section and Offa's Dyke - Southern Section.

  • En suite three-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Lunches
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

78707

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day - Pentre Halkyn

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Independent travel to the Springfield Hotel in Pentre Halkyn. Check in is from 2pm. Meet your tour leader at approximately 6:30pm in the hotel bar for a briefing before dinner.

Day 2

Prestatyn to Rhuallt

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    7.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    520/450m

This walk starts from the beach at Prestatyn and ascends up into the start of the Clwydian hills. Weather permitting, there are splendid views from Great Orme Head to the Cumbrian Mountains if it’s clear enough. In the afternoon the coastal views are replaced by the sweeping expanse of the Vale of Clwyd. The terrain is undulating and the walk ends at the village of Rhuallt.

Day 3

Rhuallt to Pen-y-Cloddiau

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    8.1 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    770/525m

A day of heather clad hills and Iron Age forts. After the initial ascent from Rhuallt the trail offers lofty views of the surrounding valleys before dropping down to the village of Bodfari. After a steady ascent the trail stays mainly elevated and follows a series of hilltops towards Moel Arthur to meet the transport home. On some hilltops the remains of Iron Age forts can clearly be seen.

Day 4

Pen-y-Cloddiau to Clwyd Gate

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    670m

A day of traversing the grassy peaks and slopes of the lower Clwydian range. After the initial fairly steep but short ascent the trail stays mainly elevated to reach Moel Famau, the highest point on the Clwydian range. After this the trail follows the contours of the ridge of hills which form the southern end of the Clwyds. Here there are more hill forts and views of the Vale of Clwyd to the west and the Alun Valley to the east.

Day 5

Clwyd Gate to Worlds End

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    590/450m

This is a generally easier days walking through gentle countryside and the Llandegla woods where refreshments can be taken at the Church. The walk ends at World’s End where we can see the start of tomorrows spectacular cliff walk.

Day 6

World’s End to Llangollen

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    6.3 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    240/590m

From the start the trail hugs the base of the spectacular limestone escarpment before descending to Llangollen town. From the trail, known as the ‘Panorama Walk’ the first views of the beautiful Dee Valley can be seen. The walk will take in the atmospheric Dinas Bran Castle atop its imposing and commanding position in the Dee Valley. The castle was said to be a possible burial site of the Holy Grail of Arthurian legends. There should be time to explore the town which sits astride the tumbling River Dee and with its heritage steam railway.

Day 7

Llangollen to Chirk

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    8.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    460/505m

From the town the trail takes us back up to continue the Panorama Walk until it descends to cross the Dee via the spectacular Pontcysyllte aqueduct which was built by Thomas Telford to carry the Llangollen canal. The aqueduct, which is a world heritage site, is over 1000ft long and stands 126ft above the River Dee. From here the rest of the walk is over fairly gentle countryside to reach Chirk. There will be the opportunity to visit Chirk Castle or even the Chirk aqueduct which also carries the canal over the River Dee.

Day 8

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Departure after breakfast. Check out is by 11am. 

We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and look forward to welcoming you on another soon. 

Departure dates for your selected tour

27th Apr 2024 - 4th May 2024 (7 Nights)

6th Jul 2024 - 13th Jul 2024 (7 Nights)

14th Sep 2024 - 21st Sep 2024 (7 Nights)

Travel Details

Private coach transport to and from the trailheads, is included.

Ample parking is available at the hotel.

The nearest railway stations are at Flint or Prestatyn. Flint is closer to the hotel. 

There is a taxi rank at Prestatyn station and a taxi will cost approximately £30 to reach the hotel. A taxi can be pre-booked from Flint station for approximately £7. (Flint Cars 01352 731 000). The hotel can pre-book taxis for you for your departure.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

The Springfield Hotel

We stay at the warm and welcoming three-star Springfield Hotel in Pentre Halkyn which has stunning views over the Dee Estuary. The hotel is based around an old hunting lodge which has recently been extended and refurbished. 

You can enjoy a drink at the Springfield Bar whilst taking in its beautiful views of the Wirral and the Dee Estuary. The hotel has panoramic views across the Dee, Wirral and Mersey to Liverpool. Its two cathedrals are easily visible on a clear day. 

The hotel has complimentary Wi-Fi with good connectivity in the lounge but a weaker signal in the bedrooms. The hotel also has a gym, sauna, steam room and hot tub for residents to use. A wide range of spa treatments are also available to book directly with the hotel should you find the time on arrival or on your departure day. 

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Walks & Excursions

The Offa’s Dyke path runs for 177 miles from Prestatyn on the North Wales coast to Chepstow on the Severn Estuary.

The route follows the ancient barrier built by Offa, the King of Mercia, in the 8th century to protect his kingdom from his rivals in what is now Wales. The trail covers one of the undiscovered jewels of the Welsh crown.

We’ll walk the first 50 miles (approximately) of the route southwards from Prestatyn to Chirk Castle on the edge of England, passing through the Clwydian Hills and crossing the Dee Valley, in six sections during the week, returning each night to our hotel.

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

When budgeting for your holiday, you will need to consider drinks, non-included entrance fees, optional excursions you may choose to participate in locally and any souvenirs or additional services such as laundry. 

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

To reach the hotel…

By car: The Springfield Hotel is located close to Junction 32A of the A55.

By rail: The nearest railway stations are at Flint or Prestatyn. Flint is closer to the hotel and is therefore a shorter journey by taxi. There is a taxi rank at Prestatyn station and a taxi will cost approximately £30 to reach the hotel. A taxi can be pre-booked from Flint station for approximately £7. (Flint Cars 01352 731 000)

UK rail information: www.nationalrail.co.uk 

By coach: The nearest bus stations are also at Flint and Prestatyn.

UK coach information: www.nationalexpress.co.uk 

You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation; www.rome2rio.com 

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk 

Meeting your tour leader: Please check the time of dinner (approximately 7pm) on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the lounge bar half an hour before dinner for an introduction to your leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your group companions.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Meals

Breakfasts and dinners are taken at the hotel, where you can savour the excellent food. Packed lunches are not included but can be purchased from the hotel or supplies can be purchased each day. 

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWW15 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday departing after November 1, 2023, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

Our intended route is covered by the following maps:

Ordnance Survey Explorer series (1:25,000 scale maps): 265 Clwydian Range and 256 Wrexham & Llangollen

Harvey’s maps Offa's Dyke Path North (1:40,000 scale) and Prestatyn to Knighton

Books: Trailblazer Guides: Offa’s Dyke Path (Keith Carter)

Websites: www.trailblazer-guides.com

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The primary focus of our Trust's financial support is directed towards Britain's premier walking charity, The Ramblers. They play a crucial role in advocating the benefits and significance of walking to the British public. Additionally, our Trust invites applications for small grants from local organizations in the UK that require support for walking-oriented activities. This encompasses initiatives such as establishing footpaths and bridleways, funding for the reconstruction of bridges and refurbishing huts, and bursary funding for organisations that support individuals to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors..

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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