Offa’s Dyke Path is a 177 mile / 283 km National Trail which links the Severn estuary near Chepstow with the north sea at Prestatyn roughly following both the 8th Century earthwork after which it is named and the England-Wales border.

FAQs

  • Who looks after the Path?

    It is all rather complex!

    Basically the day-to-day management of the path is undertaken by the National Trail Officer, who is based in Llandrindod Wells, in conjunction with the eight local authorities and one National Park Authority along the route.

    Overall policy and marketing, and much of the funding, for this, and other National Trails is the responsibility of the Countryside Council for Wales and Natural England.

    In addition, several other organisations have an interest in the Trail – including those concerned with the historic remains – Cadw and English Heritage. 

  • What is the Offa’s Dyke Association?

    The ODA is an independent voluntary organisation that provides information and other services to people who enjoy hiking and walking. They seek to promote and protect the 1200-year-old Offa's Dyke and the Offa's Dyke Path National Trail. They manage the Offa's Dyke Centre at Knighton and encourage archaeological and historical research relating to Offa's Dyke and the corridor along its length.

    The Countryside Council for Wales fully support the ODA and its objectives.  

    ODA website.

     

     

  • South to North or North to South?
    A survey undertaken in 1999 found that 71% of people spending more than one day on the path were heading from south to north, with 25% going north-south and 4% doing out and back walks. It is likely that the majority were heading north because most guidebooks, including the official one, go that way but further research would be needed to find out if this is the case!
  • Is it hard?

    Yes and no!

    Not surprisingly, considering its length, the Trail passes through many different types of landscape. The toughest part is probably the switchback section of the Shropshire Hills between Knighton and Brompton Crossroads and things can also be hard going in the upland stretches in the Brecon Beacons and Clwydian Range, especially in poor weather or visibility.

    The flattest stretch is the section between Buttington Bridge and Llanymynech which largely follows the River Severn and the Montgomeryshire Canal. Elsewhere it is largely a case of gentle ups and downs!

    The Trail has long been notorious for the number of stiles on the route – although some have been removed in recent years and it is planned to reduce these still further to make the Trail as accessible to all as possible.