Our Pick Of The Best Walks In Conwy

 

If you want to know more about the best walks in Conwy then you’ve come to the right place. The town at the centre of this popular destination in north Wales is one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in Britain, and the surrounding area makes a fantastic base for a walking holiday, so check out some Conwy campsites that you can call home for a few nights.

Whether you’re pottering around Deganwy or rambling around the Great Orme, there’s an abundance of scenic routes to choose from.

It’s time to dust off your walking boots and explore our guide to the best walks in Conwy…

Walk the Wales Coast Path from Conwy to Deganwy

Also known as the ‘two marina walk’, this three-mile scenic stretch starts in the walled market town of Conwy, then winds past some well-loved tourist attractions before finishing up at Deganwy.

Start by strolling towards Bodlondeb Woods local nature reserve (keeping an eye out for the pretty painted-lady butterflies) and continue on to Conwy Quay. Here, you’ll saunter past the town’s impressive 13th-century castle – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most marvellous medieval fortresses in Europe – as well as the smallest house in Britain. (It really is tiny, at just 122 inches high by 72 inches wide…)

Before you know it, you’ll be walking over the bridge towards Deganwy, ready for a bite to eat at one of the town’s restaurants. Fancy exploring some ruins while you’re here? Read on to find out more about Deganwy’s most popular landmark.

Explore Deganwy Castle

There’s evidence to suggest that the site of Deganwy Castle has been occupied as far back as prehistoric, Iron Age and Romano-British times. The first castle was thought to have been built here in the Middle Ages (around 1080) but it’s been rebuilt so many times that nothing remains from the original construction.

The ruins that can be seen here today are mainly from the stone stronghold that was built by King Henry III in the 13th century. Wander around the earthwork defences, climb what was once Mansell's Tower and soak up the elevated views across the River Conwy.

A pleasant three-mile circular walk runs from Deganwy railway station to the castle and back, taking around 1.5 hours to complete. If you want to keep going when you get back to the station, just join the North Wales Path and head towards Traeth Melyn for some sweet sea views.

Deganwy isn’t the only ancient fortification in the area. Browse our pick of Conwy castles to visit and ramble around some more ruins.

Climb Conwy Mountain (Mynydd y Dref)

This 801-foot mountain is just a few miles from Conwy town centre and makes an excellent place to explore on foot at any time of year. That said, it’s particularly gorgeous in the summer months, when the gorse and heather flowers are in full bloom.

There are lots of easy-to-follow grassy paths here but at times you’ll be walking along B roads – keep close to the right-hand side of the road (so you can see oncoming traffic) and if you’re with others, be prepared to walk in single file. 

Depending on how energised you’re feeling, the walk up Conwy Mountain should take no more than two to three hours in total. When you reach the summit, breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the outstanding views of the coast from one side and the Carneddau mountains from the other.

While you’re at the top, you’ll also notice the remains of Castell Caer Seion – an Iron Age hill fort that dates back to the 4th century BC – and a number of Neolithic hut circles.

If you’re looking for some other walking trails nearby, then join the North Wales Path from either Mountain Road or the Pensychnant Pass car park. Follow your feet along this long-distance route and perhaps head inland towards Snowdonia’s peaks.

If you fancy doing something different, then take a look at the top things to do in Conwy for the whole family.

Great Orme Country Park

At two miles long, one mile wide and 679 foot high, it’s hard to miss Great Orme, a giant piece of limestone rock rising from the sea. It’s a haven for rare habitats and species, so a large portion of the headland is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest as well as a Special Area of Conservation.

It’s a fantastic place for all the family to visit, as there are lots of kid-friendly activities and amusements, as well as many rewarding scenic walks to be had. Whether you want to tackle a six-mile historical trail or gently stroll through the Haulfre gardens, there’s a walk to suit every ability and taste.

The four-mile nature trail here is highly recommended – you’ll see a variety of wildlife and flowers as well as some awesome views over the Carneddau mountains and the Menai Strait. Look closely (or with binoculars) and you may also see Anglesey and Liverpool Bay.

The trail starts and finishes right next to the car park, where you can treat yourself to some refreshments from the Summit Complex or the Rest And Be Thankful Café before heading back to your Llandudno campsite.

Hiraethog Trail

This long-distance path is in the south of Conwy and links the Hiraethog villages of Llanrhaeadr, Llanfihangel Glyn Myfr, Cerrigydrudion and Pentrefoelas.

It’s over 50 miles in length, and experienced hikers might want to walk the entire stretch from Pentrefoelas in Conwy to Bodfari in Denbighshire over a few days. Prefer a less challenging walk for an afternoon? Then take one of the circular paths from any of the villages mentioned above.

However you choose to experience the Hiraethog Trail, you’re guaranteed some remarkable scenery and there are plenty of places to stop for a break along the way.

After all that walking it must be time to relax by the sea, so try these must-visit Conwy beaches before you go home.