The best walks and hikes around Llanidloes

Yes, the area offers several options for families. Hafren Forest is a great choice, with waymarked trails like the accessible half-mile Cascades Trail. For a slightly longer but still manageable walk, the St Idloes Parish Church – Llanidloes loop from Llanidloes is a 4.7-mile (7.6 km) route through gentle countryside.

Many trails around Llanidloes are dog-friendly, especially in places like Hafren Forest. However, this is a rural area with active farmland, so it's essential to keep your dog on a lead, particularly near livestock. Always check for specific restrictions in nature reserves or on private land.

Yes, Llanidloes is an excellent base for circular hikes. Besides the popular routes, you can explore trails like the Llanidloes – St Idloes Parish Church loop from Llanidloes. This moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) walk offers a pleasant journey through the surrounding fields and woodlands without venturing too far from the town.

Hafren Forest is the best place for waterfall walks. The Severn-Breaks-its-Neck Trail leads to the river's first major cascade. For a longer hike, you can follow the seven-mile trail from the forest car park all the way to the source of the River Severn, passing several beautiful water features along the way.

For trails starting in Llanidloes, there are several public car parks within the town. For routes in the surrounding landscape, dedicated car parks are available at key trailheads. The Hafren Forest car park is a popular and well-regarded starting point for multiple waymarked trails, including the walk to the Source of the River Severn.

Llanidloes is a key point on two national trails perfect for multi-day trekking. You can join a section of the 135-mile Glyndŵr's Way, which passes through the area. Alternatively, you can begin the Severn Way, Britain's longest riverside path, which starts its journey near the town.

The Cambrian Mountains offer a mix of remote moorland, rolling hills, and forested valleys. Trails can be rugged and exposed, especially at higher elevations like Plynlimon. The weather can change quickly, so it's crucial to be prepared with appropriate waterproof gear, sturdy footwear, and navigation tools, even on shorter walks.

For a sense of solitude, explore the trails around the Glaslyn Nature Reserve or venture into the more remote parts of the Cambrian Mountains. The Llanidloes – Cwmystwyth mines loop from Llanidloes is a 10-mile (16 km) route that takes you through quieter landscapes and past historic mine workings, offering a peaceful hiking experience.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning views across the Cambrian Mountains, the well-maintained paths in Hafren Forest, and the dramatic scenery around Llyn Clywedog reservoir.

There are over 25 hiking routes to explore around Llanidloes on komoot. These range from short, easy walks suitable for all abilities to challenging, full-day treks into the heart of the Cambrian Mountains.

Hiking is possible year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the days are longer and the weather is milder. The Llyn Clywedog area is particularly noted for osprey sightings between April and August. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the forests, while winter hiking requires more experience and preparation for challenging conditions.