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Why we love the Wales Coast Path

This isn’t just a walking trail – encircling the entire shore of its namesake nation, the Wales Coast Path serves up 870 miles (1,400km) of breathtaking sea views, glorious beaches, wildflower-topped cliffs and charming harbour villages. From Snowdonia’s (Eryri’s) peaks and the south’s thriving cities, to Pembrokeshire’s wildlife-filled islands and Anglesey’s historic gems, each section has its own charms – and there are countless ways to explore.

For most hikers, the whole trail takes around two months to complete (in either direction), but its shorter walks are just as rewarding. Use them as a starting point to discover the treasures of coastal Wales: from surfing, sailing and swimming, to horse riding on beaches and cycling through forests.

You don’t have to be a long-distance hiker to enjoy the Wales Coast Path – even on a shorter adventure, you’ll feel the benefits of mindfulness on the Welsh coast as you switch off and step into nature. And don’t forget this is an all-year-round outdoor playground, so even in winter you’ll be spoilt for choice with all-weather trails, watersports and sightseeing opportunities. Wildlife lovers, thrill seekers, day trippers – this one’s for you. Keep a look out for film and TV backdrops while on your travels. Three Cliffs Bay features in The Witcher, while House of the Dragon and Captain America: The First Avenger also filmed on Welsh shores. 

Things to do on the Wales Coast Path

The UK’s first National Landscape (formerly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), this ecologically fascinating place boasts the drama of limestone cliffs that dip into miles of golden, sandy beaches.

Find out more about the Gower Peninsula

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Panoramic view over the coastline and the sandy beach
Gower Peninsula

Experience the thrill of the world’s fastest zip wire, try out surfing or steer a canoe through the crashing rapids at one of Britain’s adventure capitals.

Discover Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Couple hiking in the mountains on a cloudy day
Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park

Though it has 2,000 years of history to discover, Cardiff Castle is also bang up to date – hosting festivals and events galore.

Plan your visit to Cardiff Castle

Photo by: VisitBritain/Alex Major

Man looking out at the castle view
Cardiff Castle

With over 125 miles (201km) of unspoilt coastline, Anglesey is an outdoor playground for watersports.

Find out more about Anglesey

Photo by: VisitBritain/Royce Mackin

Lighthouse on a prominent rocky outcrop
Anglesey

Walkers, wakeboarders and wildlife lovers will love the unspoilt beauty of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Explore the Llŷn Peninsula

Photo by: Crown Copyright

Location: North Wales

Aerial view of the Llŷn Peninsula, Wales
Llŷn Peninsula

Think riotous crowds and eardrum-piercing bands playing goth, punk, psychedelia, thrash-metal and more.

Dance the night away at Cardiff Psych & Noise Fest

Photo by: Getty Images/Flashpop

Girl with dyed hair, smiling, dancing with a group of people
Cardiff Psych & Noise Fest

More than 700 years old, Caernarfon Castle towers over the River Seiont in north Wales and hosts a ram-packed calendar of events beneath its turrets.

Discover Welsh history at Caernarfon Castle

Photo by: VisitBritain/Lee Beel

Row boats in a moat surrounding a castle
Caernarfon Castle

This award-winning distillery prides itself on creating bespoke spirits. Join a gin tasting or making experience to uncover the secrets of the botanics.

Discover the flavours of In the Welsh Wind Distillery

Photo by: inthewelshwind

In The Welsh Wind Distillery
In the Welsh Wind Distillery

Found less than a mile off the Pembrokeshire coast, head to Skomer to watch wildlife including puffins, seals and razorbills.

Sail to Skomer Island

Photo by: Drew Buckley

WVW-E33-2223-073
Skomer Island

Take a sea-breezy walk on the pier, and explore 700 years of history at Beaumaris Castle.

Plan your trip to Beaumaris

Photo by: VisitBritain/Lee Beel

A shop window and a number of wooden signs.
Beaumaris

Visitors of all faiths are welcome here, and it attracts thousands of Christian worshippers every year.

See St Davids Cathedral

Photo by: dmlovatt

St Davids
St Davids Cathedral

This is a landscape of countless adventures: think coasteering, cycling, boat trips, camping and hiking.

Explore Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
SVW-C10-1516-0061
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Join a foraging tour for a low-impact supper, or follow the bee-utiful St Davids Pollinator Trail.

More about Sustainability in St Davids
WCP_ST JUSTINIANS 1
Sustainability in St Davids

Craving adventure? This award-winning enterprise offers climbing, coasteering, tree climbing, abseiling and more.

Discover the Down to Earth Project

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Panoramic view over the coastline and the sandy beach
Down to Earth Project

Enjoy a round of golf on this 18-hole par 69 course, which dates back to 1894.

Tee off at Royal St. David's Golf Club

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Stratford-Upon-Avon

A pair of golfers teeing off at Royal St David's Golf Club in Wales
Royal St. David's Golf Club

On sunny days, the turquoise waters of this coastal bay shine as bright as a gemstone.

Discover the Blue Lagoon, Abereiddi

Photo by: National Trust Images/David Sellman

Location: Wales

The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy, on the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, Wales
Blue Lagoon, Abereiddi

With its long breaks and 'A frame' peaks, Aberavon has been a surfing hotspot since the 1960s.

Go surfing in Aberavon

Photo by: Getty Images/Westend61

Location: Wales

Silhouette man surfing in sea at sunset, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Surfing in Aberavon

From prestigious horse-racing events, to live music, fireworks, festivals, Christmas markets and more.

More about Chepstow Racecourse

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

An outdoor view of Chepstow Racecourse
Chepstow Racecourse

Coasteering, sea kayaking, surfing, rock climbing: it’s all on the agenda at this sea-focused activity centre.

Discover TYF Adventure

Photo by: Getty Images/Peter Cade

Location: Wales

A couple kayaking off the coast of the United Kingdom
TYF Adventure

This Gothic-style estate has been transformed into an arts venue – with a gallery and open-air theatre.

What’s on at Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery

Photo by: Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery

Location: Wales

An outside view of Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery in Wales
Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery

From classical concerts to stand-up comedy and family-friendly shows: you’ll find it all here.

What's on at Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Photo by: Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Location: Wales

A person sitting at a bench writing outside Aberystwyth Arts Centre
Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Is it a library, or a hotel? Enjoy writing workshops, lively debates and fabulous accommodation.

Be inspired by Gladstone’s Library

Photo by: Gladstone's Library

Location: Wales

The reading room in Gladstone's Library in Hawarden, Wales
Gladstone’s Library

Explore this collection of original artworks, and enjoy cakes, wine and tapas in the cafe.

Explore Raul Speek Gallery

Photo by: Pembrokeshire Weather Report by Raul Speek

Location: Wales

Pembrokeshire Weather Report, an art piece by Raul Speek, housed in the Raul Speek Gallery
Raul Speek Gallery

Get your beer fix on tours and tastings, which are hosted by the expert brewers themselves.

Raise a glass to Mantle Brewery

Photo by: Tin Man Photography

Location: Wales

A bottle of alcohol posed in front of some trees at night at Mantle Brewery
Mantle Brewery

Take a seat in the sunny beer garden, or cosy up beside the log fire in winter.

More about Tafarn Sinc

Photo by: Tafarn Sinc

Location: Wales

The interior of Tafarn Sinc, a traditional Welsh pub
Tafarn Sinc

An award-winning location for wild swimming, watersports, summer sandcastles and refreshing walks.

More about Borth Beach

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

A surfboard in the sun on Borth Beach in Wales
Borth Beach

Creating beautiful woven rugs, jackets and accessories, this woollen mill is keeping Welsh traditions alive.

Shop at Solva Woollen Mill

Photo by: Shutterstock / Lukassek

Location: Wales

Weaving tools used traditionally throughout the United Kingdom
Solva Woollen Mill

The first stones of this castle were laid in 1067, making it one of Britain’s oldest surviving strongholds.

Get to know Chepstow Castle

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

Two people rowing a boat on a river towards Chepstow Castle
Chepstow Castle

A glorious meeting of nature and architecture, and a unique backdrop for festivals and arts events.

Go wild at Tintern Abbey

Photo by: Alamy

Location: Wales

A woman with arms out stretched inside a vacant crumbling church
Tintern Abbey

This soulful festival is all about tapping into the greater consciousness and opening your mind.

Embrace a different lifestyle at Unearthed Festival

Photo by: Unearthed Festival & Pete Bounds

Location: Wales

A brass band performing on stage at Unearthed Festival in Wales
Unearthed Festival

Westival

5th - 9th June 2025

Imagine a utopia of live music, art installations and comedy – with an edgy, underground vibe.

Get tickets for Westival

Location: Wales

Westival
Westival

Balter Festival

22nd - 25th May 2025

Think punk, ska, hip hop and more – with live DJs and bands performing throughout the weekend.

Discover Balter Festival

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Wales

Balter Festival
Balter Festival

A must-visit for adventure lovers – offering hiking, cycling, coasteering, wild swimming and more.

Get to know Cardigan Bay

Photo by: Alamy

Location: Wales

Cardigan Bay
Cardigan Bay

Fire in the Mountain

29th May - 1st June 2025

With its free spirit and independent vibe, this festival is held on a rural farm near Cardigan Bay.

Explore folk culture at Fire in the Mountain

Photo by: Shutterstock / Nigel Riches

Location: Wales

Fire in the Mountain
Fire in the Mountain

This cliff-climbing train dates back to the Victorian era, and is a treasured part of Aberystwyth’s heritage.

Visit Aberystwyth Cliff Railway

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

An overhead view of the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
Aberystwyth Cliff Railway

There are countless hiking routes through Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park, but this is one of the most accessible.

Discover the Mawddach Trail

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

Two people running along a coastal path in Wales
Mawddach Trail

From bitterns in winter to butterflies in summer, there is always something spectacular to see.

More about Kenfig National Nature Reserve

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

A woman walking along a path in Kenfig National Nature Reserve
Kenfig National Nature Reserve

Retreat to this fabulous spa hotel, set on 200 acres of wild Welsh estate and gardens.

Spend the night at Bodysgallen Hall

Photo by: ©National Trust Images/Chris Lac

Location: Wales

Bodysgallen Hall, Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, Conwy
Bodysgallen Hall

This boutique cinema screens eclectic movies in luxurious surroundings, and also features a wine bar.

What’s on at Libanus 1877

Photo by: Libanus 1877

Location: Wales

An outside view of Libanus 1877
Libanus 1877

This luxurious spot features fine dining, quality accommodation and a sumptuous spa and pool overlooking the beach.

Visit St Brides Spa Hotel

Photo by: St Brides Spa Hotel

Location: Wales

Two women in a hydrotherapy pool at St Brides Spa Hotel
St Brides Spa Hotel

These cheeses certainly get around: they’ve been served at the Ryder Cup and on Concorde flights.

Buy Pant Mawr Farmhouse Cheeses

Photo by: Discover Delicious Wales

Location: Wales

Farmers posing with fresh farmhouse cheese at Pant Mawr Farmhouse
Pant Mawr Farmhouse Cheeses

Browse Primark, Sports Direct, New Look and Next – plus Boots for all your health needs.

Check out Broughton Shopping Park

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Cambridge

Ben’s Yard
Broughton Shopping Park

This north Wales retail centre features the likes of Pringle, Lambretta, Brook Taverner and Jack Murphy.

Plan your trip to Tweedmill Shopping Outlet

Photo by: Tweedmill Shopping Outlet

Location: Wales

Rows of products on sale in Tweedmill Shopping Outlet
Tweedmill Shopping Outlet

Think roaring log fires, a rustic sauna, and lots of cosy nooks for curling up with a book.

Stay at Fforest Farm

Photo by: Fforest Farm

Location: Wales

Groups of people watching the sunset at Fforest Farm
Fforest Farm

Get stuck into surfing, mountain biking, hiking and SUP, or kick back with a pair of binoculars.

Visit UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere Reserve Wales

Photo by: Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

A landscape view of the Dyfi Biosphere Reserve in Wales
UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere Reserve Wales

Whether you’re into strolling, surfing or even spellcasting, this top-notch beach has plenty to offer.

Be bewitched by Three Cliffs Bay

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Panoramic view over the coastline and the sandy beach
Three Cliffs Bay

A major landmark in Roman Britain, Caerwent still has many nods to its past to discover.

Discover Caerwent’s Roman past

Photo by: Visit Wales

Remains of the Romano-Celtic Temple in Caerwent Roman Town.
Caerwent

Standing tall for more than 700 years, this medieval fortress overlooks the pretty town of Conwy – both a joy to explore.

Explore Conwy Castle

Photo by: VisitBritain/David Angel

Location: North Wales

A castle lit up at night in winter snow near harbour
Conwy Castle, Conwy

At the time it was built, this was the world’s biggest suspension bridge – but it’s hard not to be wowed by it today.

Admire the mighty Menai Suspension Bridge

Photo by: Visit Wales

Landscape view of a suspension bridge over a river.
Menai Suspension Bridge

Star in your own romcom at the home of Wales’ patron saint of lovers, Santes Dwynwen.

Fall in love with Llanddwyn Beach and Island

Photo by: Crown Copyright / Visit Wales

A young family picnicing on a beach with a lighthouse in the background.
Llanddwyn Beach and Island

Listen up – every footstep along this gorgeous sandy beach makes a distinct sound.

Hear the Whistling Sands for yourself

Photo by: Visit Wales

A woman and two dogs overlooking a sandy beach and the ocean.
Porthor (Whistling Sands)

Glimpse a Wales of yesteryear at this quaint fishing village with its superstar pub, the Tŷ Coch Inn.

Explore magical Porthdinllaen

Photo by: Visit Wales

Two people walking along a sandy beach with the ocean to one side and pubs and shops on the other side.
Porthdinllaen

Standing proudly over Cardigan Bay, these mighty ruins look straight out of a storybook.

Climb the towers of Criccieth Castle

Photo by: Visit Wales

A castle on top of a hill beside a beach, surrounded by colourful buildings.
Criccieth Castle

From Anglesey scallops to Menai mussels, Welsh seafood is the star of the show at these seaside restaurants.

Tuck in at Dylan's

Photo by: Visit Wales

A chef plating up a bowl of mussels in a restaurant.
Dylan’s Restaurants

The UK’s first National Landscape (formerly Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), this ecologically fascinating place boasts the drama of limestone cliffs that dip into miles of golden, sandy beaches.

Find out more about the Gower Peninsula

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Panoramic view over the coastline and the sandy beach
Gower Peninsula

Experience the thrill of the world’s fastest zip wire, try out surfing or steer a canoe through the crashing rapids at one of Britain’s adventure capitals.

Discover Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Couple hiking in the mountains on a cloudy day
Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park

Though it has 2,000 years of history to discover, Cardiff Castle is also bang up to date – hosting festivals and events galore.

Plan your visit to Cardiff Castle

Photo by: VisitBritain/Alex Major

Man looking out at the castle view
Cardiff Castle

With over 125 miles (201km) of unspoilt coastline, Anglesey is an outdoor playground for watersports.

Find out more about Anglesey

Photo by: VisitBritain/Royce Mackin

Lighthouse on a prominent rocky outcrop
Anglesey

Walkers, wakeboarders and wildlife lovers will love the unspoilt beauty of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Explore the Llŷn Peninsula

Photo by: Crown Copyright

Location: North Wales

Aerial view of the Llŷn Peninsula, Wales
Llŷn Peninsula

Think riotous crowds and eardrum-piercing bands playing goth, punk, psychedelia, thrash-metal and more.

Dance the night away at Cardiff Psych & Noise Fest

Photo by: Getty Images/Flashpop

Girl with dyed hair, smiling, dancing with a group of people
Cardiff Psych & Noise Fest

More than 700 years old, Caernarfon Castle towers over the River Seiont in north Wales and hosts a ram-packed calendar of events beneath its turrets.

Discover Welsh history at Caernarfon Castle

Photo by: VisitBritain/Lee Beel

Row boats in a moat surrounding a castle
Caernarfon Castle

This award-winning distillery prides itself on creating bespoke spirits. Join a gin tasting or making experience to uncover the secrets of the botanics.

Discover the flavours of In the Welsh Wind Distillery

Photo by: inthewelshwind

In The Welsh Wind Distillery
In the Welsh Wind Distillery

Found less than a mile off the Pembrokeshire coast, head to Skomer to watch wildlife including puffins, seals and razorbills.

Sail to Skomer Island

Photo by: Drew Buckley

WVW-E33-2223-073
Skomer Island

Take a sea-breezy walk on the pier, and explore 700 years of history at Beaumaris Castle.

Plan your trip to Beaumaris

Photo by: VisitBritain/Lee Beel

A shop window and a number of wooden signs.
Beaumaris

Visitors of all faiths are welcome here, and it attracts thousands of Christian worshippers every year.

See St Davids Cathedral

Photo by: dmlovatt

St Davids
St Davids Cathedral

This is a landscape of countless adventures: think coasteering, cycling, boat trips, camping and hiking.

Explore Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
SVW-C10-1516-0061
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Join a foraging tour for a low-impact supper, or follow the bee-utiful St Davids Pollinator Trail.

More about Sustainability in St Davids
WCP_ST JUSTINIANS 1
Sustainability in St Davids

Craving adventure? This award-winning enterprise offers climbing, coasteering, tree climbing, abseiling and more.

Discover the Down to Earth Project

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Panoramic view over the coastline and the sandy beach
Down to Earth Project

Enjoy a round of golf on this 18-hole par 69 course, which dates back to 1894.

Tee off at Royal St. David's Golf Club

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Stratford-Upon-Avon

A pair of golfers teeing off at Royal St David's Golf Club in Wales
Royal St. David's Golf Club

On sunny days, the turquoise waters of this coastal bay shine as bright as a gemstone.

Discover the Blue Lagoon, Abereiddi

Photo by: National Trust Images/David Sellman

Location: Wales

The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy, on the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, Wales
Blue Lagoon, Abereiddi

With its long breaks and 'A frame' peaks, Aberavon has been a surfing hotspot since the 1960s.

Go surfing in Aberavon

Photo by: Getty Images/Westend61

Location: Wales

Silhouette man surfing in sea at sunset, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Surfing in Aberavon

From prestigious horse-racing events, to live music, fireworks, festivals, Christmas markets and more.

More about Chepstow Racecourse

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

An outdoor view of Chepstow Racecourse
Chepstow Racecourse

Coasteering, sea kayaking, surfing, rock climbing: it’s all on the agenda at this sea-focused activity centre.

Discover TYF Adventure

Photo by: Getty Images/Peter Cade

Location: Wales

A couple kayaking off the coast of the United Kingdom
TYF Adventure

This Gothic-style estate has been transformed into an arts venue – with a gallery and open-air theatre.

What’s on at Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery

Photo by: Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery

Location: Wales

An outside view of Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery in Wales
Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery

From classical concerts to stand-up comedy and family-friendly shows: you’ll find it all here.

What's on at Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Photo by: Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Location: Wales

A person sitting at a bench writing outside Aberystwyth Arts Centre
Aberystwyth Arts Centre

Is it a library, or a hotel? Enjoy writing workshops, lively debates and fabulous accommodation.

Be inspired by Gladstone’s Library

Photo by: Gladstone's Library

Location: Wales

The reading room in Gladstone's Library in Hawarden, Wales
Gladstone’s Library

Explore this collection of original artworks, and enjoy cakes, wine and tapas in the cafe.

Explore Raul Speek Gallery

Photo by: Pembrokeshire Weather Report by Raul Speek

Location: Wales

Pembrokeshire Weather Report, an art piece by Raul Speek, housed in the Raul Speek Gallery
Raul Speek Gallery

Get your beer fix on tours and tastings, which are hosted by the expert brewers themselves.

Raise a glass to Mantle Brewery

Photo by: Tin Man Photography

Location: Wales

A bottle of alcohol posed in front of some trees at night at Mantle Brewery
Mantle Brewery

Take a seat in the sunny beer garden, or cosy up beside the log fire in winter.

More about Tafarn Sinc

Photo by: Tafarn Sinc

Location: Wales

The interior of Tafarn Sinc, a traditional Welsh pub
Tafarn Sinc

An award-winning location for wild swimming, watersports, summer sandcastles and refreshing walks.

More about Borth Beach

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

A surfboard in the sun on Borth Beach in Wales
Borth Beach

Creating beautiful woven rugs, jackets and accessories, this woollen mill is keeping Welsh traditions alive.

Shop at Solva Woollen Mill

Photo by: Shutterstock / Lukassek

Location: Wales

Weaving tools used traditionally throughout the United Kingdom
Solva Woollen Mill

The first stones of this castle were laid in 1067, making it one of Britain’s oldest surviving strongholds.

Get to know Chepstow Castle

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

Two people rowing a boat on a river towards Chepstow Castle
Chepstow Castle

A glorious meeting of nature and architecture, and a unique backdrop for festivals and arts events.

Go wild at Tintern Abbey

Photo by: Alamy

Location: Wales

A woman with arms out stretched inside a vacant crumbling church
Tintern Abbey

This soulful festival is all about tapping into the greater consciousness and opening your mind.

Embrace a different lifestyle at Unearthed Festival

Photo by: Unearthed Festival & Pete Bounds

Location: Wales

A brass band performing on stage at Unearthed Festival in Wales
Unearthed Festival

Westival

5th - 9th June 2025

Imagine a utopia of live music, art installations and comedy – with an edgy, underground vibe.

Get tickets for Westival

Location: Wales

Westival
Westival

Balter Festival

22nd - 25th May 2025

Think punk, ska, hip hop and more – with live DJs and bands performing throughout the weekend.

Discover Balter Festival

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Wales

Balter Festival
Balter Festival

A must-visit for adventure lovers – offering hiking, cycling, coasteering, wild swimming and more.

Get to know Cardigan Bay

Photo by: Alamy

Location: Wales

Cardigan Bay
Cardigan Bay

Fire in the Mountain

29th May - 1st June 2025

With its free spirit and independent vibe, this festival is held on a rural farm near Cardigan Bay.

Explore folk culture at Fire in the Mountain

Photo by: Shutterstock / Nigel Riches

Location: Wales

Fire in the Mountain
Fire in the Mountain

This cliff-climbing train dates back to the Victorian era, and is a treasured part of Aberystwyth’s heritage.

Visit Aberystwyth Cliff Railway

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

An overhead view of the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway
Aberystwyth Cliff Railway

There are countless hiking routes through Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park, but this is one of the most accessible.

Discover the Mawddach Trail

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

Two people running along a coastal path in Wales
Mawddach Trail

From bitterns in winter to butterflies in summer, there is always something spectacular to see.

More about Kenfig National Nature Reserve

Photo by: © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

A woman walking along a path in Kenfig National Nature Reserve
Kenfig National Nature Reserve

Retreat to this fabulous spa hotel, set on 200 acres of wild Welsh estate and gardens.

Spend the night at Bodysgallen Hall

Photo by: ©National Trust Images/Chris Lac

Location: Wales

Bodysgallen Hall, Hotel, Restaurant and Spa, Conwy
Bodysgallen Hall

This boutique cinema screens eclectic movies in luxurious surroundings, and also features a wine bar.

What’s on at Libanus 1877

Photo by: Libanus 1877

Location: Wales

An outside view of Libanus 1877
Libanus 1877

This luxurious spot features fine dining, quality accommodation and a sumptuous spa and pool overlooking the beach.

Visit St Brides Spa Hotel

Photo by: St Brides Spa Hotel

Location: Wales

Two women in a hydrotherapy pool at St Brides Spa Hotel
St Brides Spa Hotel

These cheeses certainly get around: they’ve been served at the Ryder Cup and on Concorde flights.

Buy Pant Mawr Farmhouse Cheeses

Photo by: Discover Delicious Wales

Location: Wales

Farmers posing with fresh farmhouse cheese at Pant Mawr Farmhouse
Pant Mawr Farmhouse Cheeses

Browse Primark, Sports Direct, New Look and Next – plus Boots for all your health needs.

Check out Broughton Shopping Park

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Cambridge

Ben’s Yard
Broughton Shopping Park

This north Wales retail centre features the likes of Pringle, Lambretta, Brook Taverner and Jack Murphy.

Plan your trip to Tweedmill Shopping Outlet

Photo by: Tweedmill Shopping Outlet

Location: Wales

Rows of products on sale in Tweedmill Shopping Outlet
Tweedmill Shopping Outlet

Think roaring log fires, a rustic sauna, and lots of cosy nooks for curling up with a book.

Stay at Fforest Farm

Photo by: Fforest Farm

Location: Wales

Groups of people watching the sunset at Fforest Farm
Fforest Farm

Get stuck into surfing, mountain biking, hiking and SUP, or kick back with a pair of binoculars.

Visit UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere Reserve Wales

Photo by: Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales

Location: Wales

A landscape view of the Dyfi Biosphere Reserve in Wales
UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere Reserve Wales

Whether you’re into strolling, surfing or even spellcasting, this top-notch beach has plenty to offer.

Be bewitched by Three Cliffs Bay

Photo by: VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Panoramic view over the coastline and the sandy beach
Three Cliffs Bay

A major landmark in Roman Britain, Caerwent still has many nods to its past to discover.

Discover Caerwent’s Roman past

Photo by: Visit Wales

Remains of the Romano-Celtic Temple in Caerwent Roman Town.
Caerwent

Standing tall for more than 700 years, this medieval fortress overlooks the pretty town of Conwy – both a joy to explore.

Explore Conwy Castle

Photo by: VisitBritain/David Angel

Location: North Wales

A castle lit up at night in winter snow near harbour
Conwy Castle, Conwy

At the time it was built, this was the world’s biggest suspension bridge – but it’s hard not to be wowed by it today.

Admire the mighty Menai Suspension Bridge

Photo by: Visit Wales

Landscape view of a suspension bridge over a river.
Menai Suspension Bridge

Star in your own romcom at the home of Wales’ patron saint of lovers, Santes Dwynwen.

Fall in love with Llanddwyn Beach and Island

Photo by: Crown Copyright / Visit Wales

A young family picnicing on a beach with a lighthouse in the background.
Llanddwyn Beach and Island

Listen up – every footstep along this gorgeous sandy beach makes a distinct sound.

Hear the Whistling Sands for yourself

Photo by: Visit Wales

A woman and two dogs overlooking a sandy beach and the ocean.
Porthor (Whistling Sands)

Glimpse a Wales of yesteryear at this quaint fishing village with its superstar pub, the Tŷ Coch Inn.

Explore magical Porthdinllaen

Photo by: Visit Wales

Two people walking along a sandy beach with the ocean to one side and pubs and shops on the other side.
Porthdinllaen

Standing proudly over Cardigan Bay, these mighty ruins look straight out of a storybook.

Climb the towers of Criccieth Castle

Photo by: Visit Wales

A castle on top of a hill beside a beach, surrounded by colourful buildings.
Criccieth Castle

From Anglesey scallops to Menai mussels, Welsh seafood is the star of the show at these seaside restaurants.

Tuck in at Dylan's

Photo by: Visit Wales

A chef plating up a bowl of mussels in a restaurant.
Dylan’s Restaurants

Places to stay on the Wales Coast Path

Cardiff

The Welsh capital sits right on the Coast Path, so you can walk a quick snippet – such as the circular route around Cardiff Bay – while enjoying a city break too.

The north coast

With its train links to towns and villages all along the Wales Coast Path (plus Chester, Liverpool and Manchester), this region is a brilliant base.

Anglesey

As well as beautiful walks on the Wales Coast Path, this island is rich in wildlife, adventure and quaint places to stay – including bed and breakfasts, hotels and campsites. 

Explore nearby

From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

Photo by: Oh Me Oh My

Location: Liverpool

Rooftop of Oh me oh my restaurant in Liverpool

Cool and creative, Bristol is a must-visit for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Lit up hot air balloons and fireworks in the night sky

World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Manchester Craft Beer Festival

DJ playing to groups of people at Manchester Craft Beer Festival, in Depot Mayfield, Manchester

Looming peaks over thick forests, sheep-grazed valleys and open moors – adventure awaits in Wales.

Photo by: Nici Eberl

Crowd at the Green Man Festival in front of the stage
Wales

From the Llŷn Peninsula to St Davids, The Coastal Way takes in Wales’ wonderful west.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Llio Angharad

View of a bay with sandy beach and turquoise water with people
Llandudno, Wales

By tram, cable car or toboggan – how will you explore Llandudno?

Photo by: Hawlfraint y Goron / Visit Wales

A line of people at a station queuing for a blue tram.
Swansea, Wales

The birthplace of writer Dylan Thomas, Swansea has plenty of stories to tell.

Photo by: Hawlfraint y Goron / Visit Wales

An overhead shot of Swansea town and seaside at dusk.
Wrexham, Wales

Have a (foot)ball in Wrexham, a rising star on and off the pitch.

Photo by: Hawlfraint y Goron / Visit Wales

People visiting an outoor produce market near a historic building.

Getting to the Wales Coast Path

The Wales Coast Path stretches between Chester (in the north) and Chepstow (in the south) – both of which have good bus and train stations. If you want to walk from Chester, the closest international airport is in Liverpool (a 40-minute drive away); if you’re destined for Chepstow, Cardiff Airport is the most convenient (one hour). Various towns along the path also have direct rail links with the likes of London, Birmingham, Manchester and Cheltenham.

Getting around

Don’t fancy walking the entire Wales Coast Path? No problem: simply catch the train or bus to a spot within walking distance of your accommodation, and spend the day hiking ‘home’. Planning is essential, so ensure you have the latest OS map or guidebook for the trail, and follow the official safety guidance from the Countryside Code. If you’re hiking long-distance, book a luggage transfer company to carry your bags.

By bus

The Wales Coast Path is well connected by buses – even on remote stretches such as Anglesey and Pembrokeshire. Visit traveline.cymru for timetables.

By train

Trains serve the north and south coasts of Wales, as well as parts of Cardigan Bay (north of Aberystwyth), with stations along most of the Coast Path.

By bike

The Coast Path’s bike-friendly sections include those near Swansea, Gower, Llandudno and Caernarfon, and there are dedicated cycle routes nearby too.

Want to know more?

For more travel tips and exciting things to do, visit the official Wales Coast Path website.