The ten best dog walks in North Wales
enjoy one of North Wales' most stunning trails
Based in North Wales, the Dog Friendly Destinations’ team is positively blessed with some of the most beautiful dog walks right on the doorstep. From long stretches of sandy beaches to idyllic countryside, stunning landscapes, and not forgetting more than the odd climb or two, North Wales has it all.
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite dog walks in North Wales, including some lesser known routes alongside more popular ones – while they might be busier in peak season, we still think they’re not to be missed. And if you’re looking for somewhere to stay so you can tackle them all, take a look at these dog friendly cottages and holiday homes in Wales. A tail-waggingly warm welcome is guaranteed.
Wales Coast Path from Barkby Beach to Point of Ayr Lighthouse
A stunning section of the Wales Coast Path taking you across sandy dunes via a wooden walkway until you see the iconic Point of Ayr lighthouse beckoning to you in the distance. It’s also home to some of Wales’ rarest wildlife so keep your eyes peeled.
Distance: 14 km return
Time: 4 hours
Park at: Barkby Beach, Prestatyn, LL19 7LG
Top tip: Pack a picnic and take some water for your pooch
Moel Famau Jubilee Tower Trail
Moel Famau sits at the heart of the Clwydian Range. As the highest peak (554 metres), it offers a breath-taking outlook no matter which way you turn, from Snowdonia to Liverpool and across the Cheshire Plain.
Distance: 5.5 km
Time: 2 hours
Park at: Bwlch Pen Barras, Mold, CH7 5SH
Top tip: Look out for the signs from the car park
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Llanddwyn Island
A hidden gem located on a small tidal island off the coast of Anglesey in North Wales, Llanddwyn Island is rated as one of the best days out in Wales as well as one of the best walks in the whole of Britain.
Distance: 6.5 km
Time: 2 hours
Park at: Ynys Llanddwyn car park, Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, LL61 6SG
Top tip: Check the tide times before you go
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Aber Falls
Enjoy a scenic walk through Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve to the impressive falls before heading back along the west side of the valley to admire the panoramic views over nearby Anglesey.
Distance: 6 km
Time: 2.5-3 hours hours
Park at: Bont Newydd car park, Abergwyngregyn, LL33 0LP
Top tip: Avoid peak times as it can get very busy
Alwen Reservoir
The reservoir and its impressive dam were constructed in the early 20th century to provide water for the port of Birkenhead. It’s now a lovely place for a walk with an easy trail to follow.
Distance: 11 km
Time: 4-5 hours
Park at: Alwen Reservoir car park, Cerrigydrudion, LL21 9TT
Top tip: Pack a picnic (and dog treats) and take your time
Snowdon Ranger Path
If you want to walk to the top of Snowdon, we’d recommend the Snowdon Ranger Path as it’s the quietest and the easiest – for dogs, too. Fantastic views are nearly always guaranteed but check the weather before you set off.
Distance: 13 km
Time: 6-7 hours
Park at: Llyn Cwellyn car park, Rhyd Ddu, LL54 7YS
Top tip: Pre-book your parking space as it can get very busy
Porthdinllaen Marine Walk
Stroll along one of North Wales’ most beautiful dog friendly beaches to the pretty bay of Porth Dinllaen where you can enjoy views over the Irish Sea. You’ll soon see why it’s one of your favourite dog walks in North Wales, trust us.
Distance: 4 km
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Park at: National Trust car park, Morfa Nefyn, LL53 6DA
Top tip: Take some binoculars for seal spotting
Llangollen History Trail
The best way to explore beautiful Llangollen and the surrounding area is on foot and there’s no nicer route to follow than the Llangollen History Trail. This circular route offers stunning countryside, incredible landscapes, and a little bit of Welsh history.
Distance: 9.5 km
Time: 3-3.5 hours
Park at: East Street car park, Llangollgen, LL20 8RD
Top tip: Pack a towel so you can enjoy a dip at the Horseshoe Falls
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Tŷ Mawr Country Park & Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Follow the trail from the country park along the banks of the River Dee to the stunning Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and back again. Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you know it’s going to be a memorable dog walk.
Distance: 5.5 km return
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Park at: Cae Gwilym Lane, Cefn Mawr, LL14 3PT
Top tip: Tŷ Mawr makes for a lovely day out in itself
Chester City Walls
Not a walk that’s in North Wales but we love it and it’s in sniffing distance so we couldn’t leave it out. Stroll along the oldest and longest city walls in Britain. The complete circuit gives a great insight into Chester’s history, and you can stop off at the four main access points to further explore the city.
Distance: 3 km
Time: 1 hour
Park at: Any of Chester’s car parks
Top tip: Check out one of our favourite coffee shops
