Parc Slip Nature Reserve
find woodland trails, open paths and clearly marked routes
Fountain Road, Tondu, Bridgend, CF32 0EH
Visit WebsiteParc Slip Nature Reserve is a hidden gem in the former mining town of Tondu, offering over 300 acres of woodland, trails and open paths to explore with your dog. With a mix of longer walking routes and gentle, easy-going paths, it’s ideal for everything from a proper leg stretch to a relaxed wander. Expect well-marked trails, plenty of wildlife, free parking and a handy visitor centre on site.
- Children Welcome
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Refreshments
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
From the visitor centre car park, head through the stile to the left of the building (marked by a wooden bear carving) and follow the path as it forks right. You’ll quickly join a charming woodland trail which bends left onto an asphalt path, leading you away from the visitor centre and into the heart of Parc Slip. Along the way, you’ll spot the clearly marked Newt, Plover and Fox trails. We recommend following the Fox Trail for a medium-length walk of around 4–5km.
While there are no major rivers on this route, keep an eye out for small splash spots where your dog can cool off. After crossing a tiny, overgrown bridge, follow the blue Y-shaped National Cycle Network sign and turn left to stay on the Fox Trail. If you fancy extending your walk, turning right here will take you towards Bedford Park, with a well-maintained path that can be followed for a further 4–5km before heading back the same way.
The Fox Trail gently guides you back through woodland to the visitor centre, where you’ll have earned a stop at Karrie’s Coffee Company for a hot drink and slice of cake (and a dog ice cream for your four-legged explorer). Still got energy to burn? Cross the road at the car park entrance and continue along the woodland paths for even more exploring.
If a pub lunch rounds off your perfect dog walk, The Old House in Maesteg is just an 11-minute drive away and offers a cosy, dog friendly dining area in the bar.
For The Dogs
Dogs will love Parc Slip’s mix of woodland trails and open paths, with plenty of opportunities for off-lead exploring and space to sniff, roam and burn off energy. Much of the route is traffic-free, though a lead is handy in shared-use areas and where you may encounter cyclists, livestock or wildlife.
Parking
Free parking is available at the Parc Slip Nature Reserve visitor centre car park (CF32 0EH), which also makes a convenient starting point for exploring the trails.
Top Tips
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Explore beyond the route: The route we’ve suggested is just one of many ways to enjoy Parc Slip. Our top tip is to snap a photo of the map outside the visitor centre and head off exploring. There are a few open fields where your dog can stretch their legs and enjoy some proper zoomies.
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Off-lead freedom (with recall): Beyond the early stages of the walk, much of Parc Slip allows for off-lead exploring, as long as your dog’s recall is solid. Some paths double as cycle routes, and you may also bump into horses, deer, rabbits or even cows along the way.
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Best seasons to visit: Parc Slip is a great walk year-round, but if we had to choose, summer and autumn are our favourites. While some sections are open, much of the Fox Trail is shaded by woodland, keeping things cooler for dogs. And the autumn colours make it especially picturesque.
- Prepare for muddy paws: Heading here in winter? Pack a portable shower or plenty of towels. After wet weather, very few dogs make it back to the car clean!
