Best Walks in Wrexham: Discover the Ceiriog Valley on Foot
- This Is Wrexham team
- Jun 1
- 4 min read
When people search for the best walks in Wrexham, many head straight for well known routes around Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Llangollen or Erddig. But tucked away in the south west corner of Wrecsam County Borough is one of North East Wales’ most breathtaking walking destinations: the Ceiriog Valley.
Often described as one of Wales’ hidden gems, the Ceiriog Valley offers everything walkers could want. Rolling hills, peaceful riverside paths, ancient routes, charming villages, dramatic viewpoints and some of the most beautiful countryside in North Wales.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle riverside stroll, a scenic circular route or a challenging hill walk with panoramic views, the Ceiriog Valley has something for every ability.
Why the Ceiriog Valley is One of the Best Places for Walking in Wrexham
Stretching from Chirk through to Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog, the valley follows the River Ceiriog through a landscape of wooded hillsides, open farmland and traditional Welsh villages. Despite being just a short drive from Wrecsam city centre, it feels a world away from everyday life.
The area is home to sections of Offa’s Dyke, long distance walking trails, quiet country lanes and countless footpaths connecting villages throughout the valley. The Ceiriog Valley Walk itself was created to link communities from Chirk to Llanarmon, allowing visitors to explore the valley at their own pace while enjoying spectacular scenery and local hospitality. (Wrexham County Borough Council)
Former Prime Minister David Lloyd George famously described the valley as “a little bit of heaven on earth”, and once you’ve walked here, it’s easy to understand why. (Rated Trips)
1. The Ceiriog Valley Walk
If you’re looking for the ultimate walking route in the area, start with the Ceiriog Valley Walk.
This waymarked trail links villages throughout the valley from Chirk to Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog and can be tackled in sections, making it suitable for both casual walkers and those wanting a full day adventure. Along the route you’ll discover riverside scenery, historic landmarks, woodland paths, traditional farmland and some of the most picturesque views in Wrecsam County Borough. (Wrexham County Borough Council)
Perfect for:
Full day walkers
Visitors wanting to explore multiple villages
Those looking for a classic Wrexham walking route
2. Chirk and River Ceiriog Circular Walk
Combining history, heritage and beautiful countryside, this circular route links Chirk with the River Ceiriog, Offa’s Dyke and the surrounding landscape.
The walk offers a fantastic mix of woodland, riverside scenery and elevated viewpoints, making it one of the most varied walks in the area. It is also a great option for visitors staying near Chirk or exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site nearby. (National Trails)
Perfect for:
Half day walks
Families with older children
Visitors wanting a mix of history and scenery
3. Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog Circular Walk
Starting from one of the valley’s most beautiful villages, this route offers everything people imagine when they think of rural Wales.
Expect rolling hills, quiet lanes, grazing sheep, open countryside and incredible views across the valley. The route passes through landscapes that have changed little over generations and finishes perfectly with food, drink or a relaxing spa visit in Llanarmon. (Rated Trips)
Perfect for:
Countryside lovers
Weekend visitors
Food and walking breaks
4. Offa’s Dyke and Ceiriog Valley Routes
For more experienced walkers, sections of Offa’s Dyke Path provide some of the most rewarding views in the region.
The ancient earthwork passes through landscapes above the valley, offering spectacular viewpoints across Wales and the borderlands. Several local routes connect directly with the National Trail, allowing walkers to combine valley scenery with one of Britain’s most famous long distance walking routes. (Wikipedia)
Perfect for:
Experienced walkers
Long distance hikers
Photography enthusiasts
5. Explore the Upper Ceiriog Trail
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, the Upper Ceiriog Trail offers a more rugged countryside experience.
The route loops through the western end of the valley around Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog and Pandy, taking walkers through dramatic landscapes, remote countryside and beautiful sections of the Berwyn foothills. (Long Distance Walkers Association)
Perfect for:
Experienced walkers
Adventure seekers
Visitors wanting quieter routes
Where to Refuel After Your Walk
One of the joys of walking in the Ceiriog Valley is what awaits at the end of your route.
The valley is home to welcoming pubs, independent businesses and places to stay where visitors can relax after a day outdoors.
A particular favourite is The Hand at Llanarmon, known for its award winning food, cosy atmosphere, countryside accommodation and spa facilities, making it an ideal base for a walking break in North Wales.
Make a Weekend of It
The beauty of the Ceiriog Valley is that it rewards slowing down.
Rather than rushing through, spend a weekend exploring different walking routes, discovering local villages and enjoying the area’s incredible hospitality.
Stay in a countryside cottage, enjoy a riverside walk in the morning, explore the Berwyn landscape in the afternoon and settle into a traditional Welsh pub in the evening.
For visitors searching for the best walks in Wrexham, the Ceiriog Valley offers something increasingly rare: space, peace, authenticity and some of the most spectacular scenery in North Wales. Plan Your Visit
Explore more places to stay, eat, drink and discover across Wrecsam:
Visit This is Wrecsam Photo credits: Visit Wales
