Walking Glyndŵr's Way
The Glyndŵr Way follows a horseshoe line through long green valleys and the secluded hill-country of the Radnorshire Hills. Because of its remoteness, Glyndŵr was able to move rapidly and was an elusive presence along these numerous ‘cefnffyrdd’ ancient upland tracks - the key feature in his guerilla campaign against the English.
Today, the countryside has remained hardly changed from those turbulent bygone times. The Glyndŵr way takes you through the beautiful, secluded hill country of mid Wales, where it is unlikely you will be troubled by crowds; for many, the unspoilt beauty and solitude of the route is its main attraction.
Your walk takes you through a great variety of exciting scenery and terrain. Beginning in Knighton, you soon leave the crowds and head into the East Radnorshire Hills, walking through ancient woodland, over rolling hills, past remote farms and isolated, close-knit, friendly Welsh hamlets.
You come upon wide lakes and reservoirs, views over the steep wooded valleys and the mystical setting of Lake Vyrnwy. The descent to the spectacular setting of Llyn Clywedog will remain with you for some time to come. Enjoy the stillness and solitude of the high open moorland, with panoramic views of mid-Wales and Cardigan Bay in the west, and across to the dramatic peaks of Snowdonia to the north. The notable ranges are Cadair Idris 892m (2,928’) and Pumlumon Fawr 752m (2,468’), far removed from anything that resembles today’s world.
Active Travel Through Welsh Countryside
The trail takes you past a number of battle sites where Prince Owain Glyndŵr fought against the English in the 15th century. The 1401 Battle of Hyddgen, in the wilds of Pumlumon marked a turning point in Glyndŵr’s rebellion, and was to establish him as Prince and later King of Wales. The peaceful nature of the little church at Pilleth belies a more bloody history at the battle of Bryn Glas, which took place nearby in 1402. During this battle, Edmund Mortimer, a leading claimant to the English throne was captured and later married Glyndŵr’s daughter.
Pass through the attractive old town of Machynlleth, the half-way point of your walk, where Glyndwr held Wales' first Parliament in 1404. It was for a period the capital of Wales. Finish the walk at the ancient market town of Welshpool, where the Welsh language is alive and well. A visit to the famous 13C Powis Castle at the end of your walk is not to be missed.
In Welshpool, Glyndŵr’s Way links with Offa’s Dyke - if you wish, you can return along the impressive earthwork to your starting point at Knighton.
Our team would be delighted to talk to you about an itinerary for a walking holiday on Glyndŵr’s Way.
Celtic Trails has 20 years’ experience providing tailored, quality itineraries for walkers who appreciate good service, comfort and organisation.
