FROM RAIL TO TRAIL
Reach iconic Welsh landscapes and explore hundreds of trails by train, 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 and hidden gems to discover across the Transport for Wales 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 border’s most iconic routes within easy reach of Transport for Wales railway stations, including two of the finest long-distance walking trails in Britain, getting to your next walking adventure by train has never been easier.
WALK THE WALES COAST PATH
Why not discover the variety of walks, views, historic sites and bustling towns along the Wales Coast Path? Covering 870 miles of dramatic landscapes, the path runs the entire length of the Welsh coastline, 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 our network, wherever you are in Wales.
If you’re in North Wales, arrive at Holyhead train station and take the walk from there 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 station towards to the town, and join the path at the Celtic Gateway bridge.
If you want to explore the coast 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 here 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 go by 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.
WALK OFFA’S DYKE PATH
If you’re looking eastwards for an adventure along the England-Wales border you can explore Offa’s Dyke Path. Named after the earthwork 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, whilst 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 to enjoy the 13km walk between the two stations. Chirk town sits right on the border, so with the right route choice you can enjoy a walk that covers 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 Wales’ railway stations, why not leave the car at home and get there 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, contributing to a greener future – one step at a time.