The best walks and hikes around Llantysilio
4.4
(1820)
10,083
hikers
47
hikes
Hiking around Llantysilio is characterized by the Llantysilio Mountain range, featuring extensive upland heath with heather, gorse, and bilberry. The region's geology consists of Silurian shales, forming a ridge with elevations exceeding 500 meters. Hikers encounter panoramic views of the Dee Valley, the Berwyn Mountains, and the Clwydian Range. The landscape also includes prominent hills such as Moel Morfydd and Moel y Gamelin, alongside the River Dee and its Horseshoe Falls.
Best hiking trails around Llantysilio
- The most popular hiking…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.5
(11)
34
hikers
11.9km
04:00
580m
580m
Hike the moderate 7.4-mile Moel Morfydd from Rhewl loop for challenging climbs and panoramic views of the Dee Valley.
2
hikers
1.31km
00:21
10m
10m
Hike the easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) Llangollen History Trail, gaining 38 feet (12 metres) to see Horseshoe Falls and St Tysilio's Church.
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4.8
(27)
152
hikers
13.1km
03:53
380m
380m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
46
hikers
9.09km
03:13
520m
520m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
36
hikers
6.41km
01:59
230m
220m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Llantysilio Green weir, more commonly known as the Horseshoe Falls, is a 140-meter-long, horseshoe-shaped weir designed by Thomas Telford in 1808 to divert water from the River Dee into the Llangollen Canal. This prominent structure is a significant piece of engineering and a feature of the World Heritage Site, providing water for the canal and attracting tourists with its unique design and surrounding landscape. The Llantysilio Green Car Park is a designated access point for visiting the falls. In the late 19th century a long piece of wood, about 30cm wide, floated on the water here to deflect floating debris away from the canal intake. It was fixed at one end. It’s visible in the photo, taken c.1890. Some trippers couldn’t resist the temptation to walk along it, ignoring a warning sign nearby, if they weren’t spotted by the “waterman” in charge of the sluice. Local residents took a dim view of such “unheeding folly”. 😂😂
4
0
A wonderfully pastoral scene, from purple-headed mountain to slow winding river
0
0
Went up on a beautiful crisp late morning hike from car park but could be nice to go from town of Llangollen
0
0
With stunning views of the fast-flowing River Dee, two hundred-year-old chain bridge & Llangollen’s popular steam railway, it is hard to think of a more beautiful setting in which to relax, explore & unwind.
5
0
The Chain Bridge crosses the River Dee at Llantysilio, linking Telford’s work on the canal with his road to Holyhead. It was built by Exuperius Pickering Senior in 1817. He wanted exclusive access to the canal to transport coal, limestone and iron bars to the west without paying the tolls in Llangollen.
1
0
Located on the River Dee, near to Llantysilio, this masterpiece of Thomas Telford Engineering is where the Pontcysllte Aqueduct and Canal World Heritage site begins. He designed this weir to draw water from the River Dee in to the canal, and it became a stunning addition to the landscape. At 460ft (140M) long, it’s a sight to behold.
6
0
This is the first place you come to if you take the canal route into Llangollen. Make sure you dismount before getting to the horse drawn boats.
0
0
The Chainbridge Hotel is one of the most famous and historic hotels in Llangollen and is situated in a unique position between the dramatic fast-flowing waters of the River Dee and the serene Llangollen Canal. Only a short ride from the stunning Horseshoe Falls waterfall, The Chainbridge Hotel is perfectly located to explore the wonders of this World. They serve good food there was a wedding when we arrived which was beautiful.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in the Llantysilio area?
Llantysilio offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 45 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging mountain climbs, catering to different fitness levels and preferences.
What are the general difficulty levels of hikes in Llantysilio?
The hiking trails in Llantysilio cater to all abilities. You'll find a good mix of routes, with 26 classified as easy, 19 as moderate, and 3 as difficult. This ensures there's something for everyone, from casual walkers to experienced mountaineers.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks in Llantysilio?
Yes, Llantysilio has several easy routes suitable for families. A great option is the Llangollen History Trail, an easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) path that passes by the historic Horseshoe Falls and St Tysilio's Church. Another easy choice is the Horseshoe Falls – St Tysilio's Church loop from Berwyn, which is around 3.9 miles (6.3 km).
What kind of landscapes and natural features can I expect to see while hiking in Llantysilio?
Llantysilio is dominated by the Llantysilio Mountain range, featuring extensive upland heath with heather, gorse, and bilberry. Hikers are treated to panoramic views of the Dee Valley, the Berwyn Mountains, and the Clwydian Range. The landscape also includes prominent hills like Moel Morfydd and Moel y Gamelin, alongside the scenic River Dee and its historic Horseshoe Falls.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers in Llantysilio?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, routes like the Moel Morfydd from Rhewl loop offer significant climbs and rewarding panoramic views of the Dee Valley. Another demanding option is the Moel Y Gamelin – Moel y Gaer Summit loop from Rhewl, which includes substantial elevation gain.
What historical landmarks or points of interest can I explore on hikes in Llantysilio?
Llantysilio is rich in history. You can explore the dramatic ruins of Castell Dinas Brân, a prominent hillfort often incorporated into hiking routes. The Llangollen History Trail passes by the historic Horseshoe Falls and St Tysilio's Church. You might also encounter remains of former slate quarries, offering glimpses into the area's industrial past.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Llantysilio?
Yes, many of the trails in Llantysilio are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular circular options include the Moel Morfydd from Rhewl loop and the Dinas Bran Castle – Llangollen Canal loop from Berwyn.
What wildlife might I encounter while hiking in the Llantysilio mountains?
The Llantysilio Mountain range is a haven for upland breeding birds. Keep an eye out for species such as curlew, wheatears, meadow pipits, skylarks, and ring ouzels. If you're an early riser, you might even spot the elusive black grouse performing its mating dance.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Llantysilio?
The routes in Llantysilio are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 170 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning panoramic views of the Dee Valley, and the historical landmarks encountered along the way.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Llantysilio?
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and villages in the Llantysilio area. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local tourism websites, but many routes start from accessible points.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the hiking routes?
Yes, the region has facilities for hikers. The Ponderosa Cafe on Horseshoe Pass is a well-known spot. Additionally, the nearby town of Llangollen offers various cafes and pubs where you can refuel after your hike.
What is the best time of year to hike in Llantysilio?
While Llantysilio offers hiking opportunities year-round, spring and autumn are particularly popular due to milder temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Spring brings blooming heather and gorse, while autumn showcases rich foliage. Summer is also excellent, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather and more visitors. Winter hikes can be beautiful but require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
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