DISCOVER HIDDEN GEMS ACROSS WALES AND THE BORDERS: STRAIGHT FROM RAIL TO TRAIL
Reach iconic landscapes by train and explore hundreds of trails, uncovering history and culture along the way, with Transport for Wales
From rolling hills and lush valleys, to sweeping mountains and rugged coastline, there are hundreds of walks to discover across our network. Long or short; well-trodden or less travelled; suitable for big feet or small and those walking or wheeling – there’s a trail for everyone.
With many of Wales and the borders’ most iconic trails within easy reach of Transport for Wales train stations, getting to your next walking adventure by train has never been easier.
Looking for inspiration? Why not discover a variety of walks, views, historic sites and bustling towns along the Wales Coast Path? Covering 870 miles of dramatic coastline, the path runs the entire length of the Welsh coast, beginning at the border between England and Wales near Chester and ending at Chepstow. You can access the Wales Coast Path from a number of different stations across the Transport for Wales network, wherever you are in Wales.
If you’re in north Wales, arrive at Holyhead train station and take the walk from Holyhead to Trearddur, described by many as one of the finest locations on the
Welsh coast. You will encounter rugged cliffs, ancient monuments, an iconic lighthouse and a nature reserve; and it couldn’t be simpler to reach this route by train. Just head out of Holyhead train station, towards to the town, and join the path at the Celtic Gateway bridge.
If you want to walk a path in mid Wales, get the train to Aberystwyth. Turn left out of the station and walk along Alexandra Road then Mill Street (A487) to reach the Wales Coast Path by Trefechan Bridge. Turn left to cross the bridge and head south towards Llanrhystud and Aberaeron. Or head straight on to take in
the coastal views to the south and pass the remains of Aberystwyth Castle, the iconic Old College building, the pier and promenade.
Or, if you want a day out in south Wales, why not get the train to Tenby? From the station, head south to discover the remains of Tenby’s castle on the headland and South Beach and then on towards Penally, Lydstep and Manobier. And if you don’t want to do the loop, you can jump on the train for your return from Penally or Manobier instead.
If you’re looking for a walk along the England-Wales border you can explore Offa’s Dyke Path. Named after the dyke that King Offa ordered to be constructed in the 8th century, the path runs for 177 miles and links three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It also passes through Bannau Brycheiniog National Park on the spectacular Hatterrall Ridge. Sections of the trail that run through the Bannau Brycheiniog and Clwydian Range are more suited to experienced walkers, while the flattest stretch follows the River Severn and the Montgomeryshire Canal.
For a one-day outing on Offa’s Dyke, arrive by train at either Ruabon or Chirk station to enjoy the 13km walk between the two stations. Chirk town sits right on the border, so with the right route you can enjoy a walk crossing both countries.
Take in views of Chirk castle along the path, as well as the World Heritage site of Pontcysyllte aqueduct.
With so many iconic trails to discover within easy reach of our train stations, when you’re planning your next excursion why not leave the car at home and go by train? Spend more time exploring your favourite paths without having to look for parking or worrying about doubling back to collect your car at the end.
Going by rail is also a more sustainable way to travel, so with each journey you’ll be helping to preserve the natural beauty of Wales for generations to come and contributing to a greener future – one step at a time.