The best walks and hikes around Gladestry
4.5
(239)
1,577
hikers
121
hikes
Hiking around Gladestry, a village in Powys, Wales, is characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and proximity to significant national trails. The area features the historic Offa's Dyke Path, Hergest Ridge, and parts of Radnor Forest, including Rhos Fawr. Water-break-its-neck Waterfall adds a notable natural attraction to the diverse landscape, providing varied terrain for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Gladestry
- The most popular hiking route is Radnor Range circular from Water-break-its-neck, a 13.4 miles (21.6 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
3.5
(4)
13
hikers
21.6km
06:22
620m
620m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.2
(6)
49
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(5)
23
hikers
6.57km
02:01
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
29
hikers
4.09km
01:14
140m
140m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
10
hikers
17.8km
05:21
590m
590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The group of Monkey Puzzle trees can be seen for miles around, and are a clear way point on the Offa's Dyke path.
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it's on the water breaks it neck byway
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The Whimble has a striking conical shape. The summit is 599m and on a clear day offers great voews with the hill dropping away steeply on all sides. To the southeast, Hergest Ridge and the Black Mountains visible to the south. To the west and north the higher, flat-topped summits of the Radnor Range. To the northeast, Bache Hill.
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The fine rainbow mist surrounding the unusually named Water-break-its-neck waterfall creates a humid micro-climate in this lush green gorge. There's a high and low path so you can enjoy both viewpoints.
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Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos is a mountain summit in the Radnor Forest (Mid Wales), a rather isolated dome of hills to the north of the village of New Radnor. The local rocks are sedimentary shales and mudstones with some Silurian limestone. With a height of 660 metres (2,170 ft), it is the highest point in the Radnor Forest and the historic county top of Radnorshire. The summit is located on a broad heathery plateau, which is separated from Black Mixen: the eastern plateau summit, by the cwm of Harvey Dingle. To the west is Drygarn Fawr and Gorllwyn, to the northwest Plynlimon, to the north Beacon Hill and the Clun Forest (Shropshire), and to the south the Black Mountains. There is a prominent trig point at the summit, and a very useful landmark for walkers on the broad and featureless summit plateau.
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Black Mixen is a subsidiary summit of Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos in the Radnor Forest. The summit is large peat bog plateau. The summit is marked with a cairn, and is next to a radio transmitter and its building. Black Mixen is the only UK registered Nuttall to have a communications mast on its summit.
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Bache Hill is a subsidiary summit of Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos, in the Radnor Forest in Wales. It is located to the east of Black Mixen. The summit is marked by a trig point built on an ancient burial mound, probably of Bronze Age date, like most of the summit cairns and round barrows in Wales. It is a UK registered Nuttall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Gladestry, and what are their difficulty levels?
There are over 120 hiking routes around Gladestry. The trails cater to various fitness levels, with approximately 49 easy routes, 62 moderate routes, and 10 difficult routes, offering something for everyone from casual walkers to experienced hikers.
Are there any waterfall hikes near Gladestry?
Yes, the area is home to the notable Water-break-its-neck Waterfall, located within a 15-minute drive west of Gladestry. You can explore this beautiful spot on routes like the easy Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall – Water-break-its-neck loop from New Radnor, which takes you through a lush green gorge.
What natural landmarks or viewpoints can I discover while hiking near Gladestry?
Gladestry offers access to several significant natural features. You can hike to Hergest Ridge Summit, known for its views and local folklore. The Radnor Forest, including Black Mixen Summit, also provides expansive vistas. Don't miss the Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall for its unique micro-climate and scenic paths.
Are there family-friendly hiking options around Gladestry?
Absolutely. Many of the 49 easy routes are suitable for families. For instance, the short Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall loop from New Radnor is an easy option that allows you to experience the waterfall without a strenuous climb.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in Gladestry?
Yes, the Gladestry area is generally very dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your canine companion. Always keep your dog under control, especially around livestock, and be mindful of local signage regarding leads.
Are there many circular hiking routes in the Gladestry area?
Yes, the region offers a good selection of circular routes, perfect for exploring without retracing your steps. An example is the challenging Radnor Range circular from Water-break-its-neck, which provides stunning views over the Radnor Forest.
Does Gladestry offer access to any long-distance hiking paths?
Gladestry is uniquely positioned directly on the historic Offa's Dyke Path, one of the UK's most renowned national trails. This makes it an excellent base for exploring sections of this 177-mile path that traces the border between England and Wales.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Gladestry?
The hiking trails around Gladestry are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 230 reviews. Hikers often praise the area's rolling hills, beautiful winding paths, and the fantastic scenery that unfolds around every corner.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails around Gladestry?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. For popular spots like Water-break-its-neck Waterfall, there are designated parking areas. For other routes, roadside parking may be available in villages or at specific trailheads. Always check local signage for restrictions.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Gladestry?
Gladestry offers beautiful hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, and even winter can be magical with crisp air and clear views, though some paths may be muddy or icy.
Are there other notable hiking areas easily accessible from Gladestry?
Yes, Gladestry serves as a great starting point for exploring wider outdoor areas. The Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons are within easy traveling distance for more extensive hiking. The nearby town of Kington also provides access to additional local trails like The Herefordshire Trail and The Mortimer Trail.
Can I find moderate difficulty hikes in the area?
Yes, Gladestry has a good selection of moderate trails. For example, the Warren Wood loop from New Radnor is a 4.1-mile moderate trail that takes you through scenic woodlands and is typically completed in about 2 hours.
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