FAQS
How far will I be walking?
This is a 33-mile circular route taking in all the summits around the Vale of Llangollen. It has been divided into 6 unequal sections determined by road and rail access. The route can be accessed from Llangollen town on foot, adding a further 2 miles to your journey.
How long will it take me?
As a challenge, it could just possibly be completed in a day, but most folk will want to take 2, 3 or 4 days, using public transport and/or taxis to return to Llangollen overnight. Suggestions for dividing up the route are in the booklet.
What about the terrain?
Much of the route is over high heather moorland, but in contrast there are both deciduous and coniferous forests, limestone grassland, and a couple of very scenic stretches along minor roads. The River Dee is crossed twice – by the 17th century bridge at Carrog in the west, and on Telford's world-famous aqueduct in the east.
Is it demanding?
Some sections are more energetic than others. The most demanding section is a 7-mile stretch that begins by crossing four peaks in succession. Ascents and descents are fairly steep on a shingly track here, but there is no scrambling. The highest point of the Round is Moel Fferna at 630m, but apart from a short initial stretch on a forest path, the ascent is fairly gentle. The whole route is well within the capabilities of the average walking club member.
When should I walk?
It's probably best to avoid December, January and February because winter conditions can be quite severe on these mountains – but you may get a fine spell, even then. Outside those months, if you have any choice, walk on clear days to get the best of the views. Remember that the temperature on the heights will be 4 or 5ºC lower than that in the valley, and it's likely to be a good deal breezier as well. For a real treat, go in late summer (August – September) and enjoy the blaze of purple heather.
What should I wear?
Walking boots would definitely be the footwear of choice because they offer ankle support, but you could possibly get away with trainers in dry conditions. And remember, however fine the weather when you set off, you should carry an extra sweater and a waterproof, because conditions can change rapidly in this high country.
What about the views?
On a clear day the views are simply out of this world. Very often Llangollen is in sight in the valley below, but more distantly you can pick out Snowdonia, the Clwydians, the Mersey estuary, the Peak district, the Cheshire Plain, the Wrekin, the Long Mynd, the Breiddens, the Berwyns, the Arenigs – and a lot more. At a couple of the best viewpoints (Cyrn-y-Brain, Moel Fferna), the booklet text identifies all the peaks for you.
And the wildlife?
The moorland is the home of both the Red Grouse and the rarer Black Grouse. The broadleaved woods have pied fly-catchers, redstarts and wood warblers. Perhaps most exciting are the birds of prey, the Buzzard, Red Kite, Kestrel, Merlin, and Peregrines are all possible sightings.
How will I get to and from different points on the round?
Two points on the Round are accessible by a regular bus service from Llangollen, and one is also the terminus of the Llangollen Railway, with several trains a day in summertime. Other than that there are taxi firms in Llangollen that can help. All information about transport is in the text.
Is the route waymarked?
Yes, it is fully waymarked with our logo. But waymarks can always 'disappear', so you should still follow the booklet text carefully.
Can I take my dog?
You certainly can, but you should bear in mind that there are a few stiles. He will need to be a good jumper or of a size you can lift over. Also you will probably meet sheep grazing on the high pastures and moorland, so you should be ready to put him on a lead. Finally, the rules relating to Open Access Land (broadly, the moorland areas of this walk) require dogs to be on a lead of no more than 2m from March to July inclusive, to protect ground-nesting birds.
Where can I stay?
Llangollen has a wide variety of hotel and Bed and Breakfast accommodation. Llangollen Tourist Information Centre can help you with your search – Tel 01978 860828
Can I get an evening meal?
There are eating houses of every description in Llangollen. You will be spoiled for choice!
Is there anything for my non-walking partner to do in Llangollen while I walk?
What a question! For a start, the canal towpath is pleasant for a gentle stroll, but you could explore the waterway further on a short horse-drawn boat trip or a long cruise that includes the aqueduct. Then there's the steam railway, 8 miles of line winding through a picturesque valley. Close to the town stands Plas Newydd, the photogenic former home of the eccentric Ladies of Llangollen, set in fine grounds. Add to that a riverside park, a town museum, and some interesting individual shops for browsing. A very short drive out of town you will find the ruins of 13th century Cistercian Valley Crucis Abbey, while the nearby stone pillar has direct connections with the King Arthur saga. And if your partner would like to meet you at some point on the route, how about the Ponderosa Café on top of the Horseshoe Pass for lunch? Or maybe the snack bar at Carrog Station? You certainly won't get waitress service at World's End, but you might well enjoy a picnic beside the tumbling stream in its remote valley.
Other Information: