Walks on Glyndŵr's Way National Trail

Celebrating 20 years of epic walking in 2022, Glyndŵr's Way National Trail forms a satisfying circuit with the Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail and jigsaws between the popular landscapes of southern Eryri (Snowdonia) and the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons). Despite this, most walkers haven’t caught on to this 135-mile tour through Mid Wales. That’s one good reason to sample a section.

The Glyndŵr's Way National Trail is all about getting off the beaten track. Its nine-day route visits many of the sites connected with Cymru's historic past. The trail is anchored by the trail heads of Y Trallwng (Welshpool), Trefyclo (Knighton) and Machynlleth, then midway it loops largely through rural Mid Wales.

On the complete route, you’ll walk through rolling farmland, open moor and heather-clad hills, and discover exhilarating views of Cader Idris and Pumlumon mountains. There are overnight stops in small towns such as Llanidloes, but you can travel for miles and only see the occasional farmer. What you will see, however, are red kites, peregrine falcons, buzzards and even an osprey if you are lucky.

As much of the trail so remote, you won't find many shops, pubs or cafés along the way, so take plenty of supplies with you. 

To halve the length of a week's walking, start or finish at Machynlleth. Y Trallwng and Trefyclo are on major rail lines, while other sections of the trail are accessible by bus. Here are three walking routes to get you started.

LlanbrynmairIt'll take a long day, but this route is an introduction that ticks all boxes. The highlights include views across the Dyfi Valley to Cader Idris’ brooding hulk, and the Berwyn Mountains that lift out of farmland ahead.

There's a great selection of circular walks around Trefyclo, giving you a taste of the empty trails and sweeping views of Glyndŵr's Way on a choice of day-long hikes over farmland and moor from Trefyclo. We say 'empty trails', but this area is managed by the Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, so expect all manner of flitting furry company en route.

Glyndŵr destroyed the 12th century Cistercian abbey after he found its monks supporting the English, and its ruins add to the romance of the scenery around this village. Discover the granite tombstone of the last native Prince of Wales, Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, then pick up the Glyndŵr's Way again for an easy stroll beneath oak forests on rocky outcrops and red kites.

Here's a superb wild weekend for hikers. From Llanidloes, it’s a spectacular descent to Llyn Clywedog reservoir pooled behind Britain’s tallest concrete dam. Then, head into the hills, up the soft green sloped, back into the moors of the Cambrian Mountains and skirting around Glaslyn Nature Reserve's lake to reach the trail highpoint Foel Fadian for an unforgettable view down the Dulas Valley. Fortunately, it’s all downhill from here. Pop in to the Star Inn along the way, check opening times first though.

You can also create your own itinerary for day walks in the area if you fancy exploring further, such as a 9.5 mile walk from Aberhosan to Machynlleth.

Read more: 48 hours exploring Llanidloes and Llyn Clywedog in the Cambrian Mountains

• Before you head out, please read our safety advice for exploring Wales' National Parks.
• Adventure Smart Wales has plenty of advice on how to ‘make a good day better’, and we recommend you read it before planning your days out.
• The Countryside Code is there to help everyone enjoy the outdoors safely, to show respect for each other, protect our environment, our wildlife and our beautiful landscape. If you bring your dog along, please follow the Dog Walking Code.
• Wales is criss-crossed by a network of paths, tracks and unpaved roads. These trails will take you from your front door to the most remote parts of the countryside. Whether you’re travelling by wheel, heel or hoof, follow The Trail Users Code, know where you can go and share the space responsibly.
• 'Wild camping' without the permission of the landowner isn't allowed anywhere in Wales. Please use our accommodation search to find suitable places to stay on your trip, or book on a self-guided trip where transport, accommodation and luggage transfers are provided.
• Due to the remore nature of the trail, if you're using public transport links you'll need to plan your day carefully aroud them. Traveline Cymru is a useful public transport journey planner.
• Help Wales become the first Refill Nation by using nearby Refill Points to fill up your water bottle before you head off. Find out more, including how to download the free Refill app to find your nearest Refill Point on the Refill Wales website.