The best walks and hikes around Wales
4.5
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8,699
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Hikes around Wales explore the countryside of the South Yorkshire village of the same name. The area is situated above the Rother Valley on the border between Yorkshire and Derbyshire. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, community woodlands, and the lakes and nature reserves of the Rother Valley Country Park. The region's network of footpaths connects reservoirs, ponds, and parklands.
Best hiking trails around Wales
- The most popular hiking route is Rother Valley Country Park loop, a 4.0…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.6
(5)
19
hikers
6.45km
01:38
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(33)
864
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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42
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
34
hikers
11.3km
02:55
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
31
hikers
11.0km
02:49
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Wales
Tips from the Community
Lovely quiet route. Best when dry, and heading from Kiveton towards Worksop (downhill)
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Great in the summer not for a swim though, loads of activities to do
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There are a number of lakes in the Rother Valley Country Park. This is one of the smaller lakes on the northern side of the park and it is connected to the others via well-maintained paths, making it easy to explore the area on foot.
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Situated to the eastern side of Bedgrave Mill courtyard, behind one of the buildings.
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The park was formerly a mixture of meadows and marshy bullrush beds before the open cast excavation started. At the eastern side of the lake stands the Bedgrave Mill courtyard, where the visitor centre is located displaying the flood defence map and the original mill mechanism "flour into grain" exhibition from when it was a water mill. There is also a craft centre and "The Stables" cafe.
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Turner wood is a particularly picturesque place with the canal side cottages and the locks, there also seems to be a couple of resident Swan families too, a lovely place to ride or walk but there is a dismount sign in front of the cottages so please respect this 🙏🙏
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I’m not usually a canal tow path rider but it has to be said that the Chesterfield canal is pretty with many picturesque locks and canal side cottages, lovely place 🥰🥰
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More Information
A historic parish with an intriguing name
It is thought that both Wales the country and this Wales got their names from the Anglo-Saxons, with ‘Weales’ meaning ‘the land of the foreigner.’ During Saxon times, many believe that the region’s Celts retreated above the Rother to defend themselves on the spot where the village now stands. There’s also a suggestion the name derives from ‘Waelas’, which means field of battle.
Just like its namesake country, the village of Wales has a proud coal mining heritage, with the surrounding region producing coal for 130 years. The last shift at Kiveton Park Colliery took place in September 1994, bringing this industrial era to an end.
Community woodlands, reservoir loops and picturesque villages
The best hiking routes around Wales can be accessed utilising the region’s network of public footpaths. There are plenty of objectives, with various areas of scenic beauty and nearby villages all easily incorporated into a longer walk, meaning you can enjoy quality time spent outdoors and then retreat to a cafe or pub afterwards. For example, the village of Harthill is a short stroll from Harthill Reservoir, while from the village of Aston, you can easily explore Aston Park and Hepworth Pond.
There are some gorgeous walks around Wales in Kiveton Community Woodland, just a short stroll from the village. Trails here explore a mixture of natural grassland, wetlands, and both mature and new woodland, allowing for varied outings even if you’re only going for a quick amble.
Explore the Rother Valley Country Park
Some of the finest and most accessible hikes around Wales explore the 740-acre (300 ha) Rother Valley Country Park, a short walk to the west of the village. The park is home to four artificial lakes, vibrant nature reserves and hosts a variety of activities, like cycling, fishing and watersports. The lakeside trails are wheelchair friendly, while the nature reserves, Barbers Lane trail and the park perimeter feature rougher, undulating terrain.
The nature reserves are a treat for birders, with over 260 species recorded at the park since it opened in 1983. In the grasslands, keep an eye out for mammals like mice, voles, shrews, rabbits and hares. In the skies, larger birds display feats of aerial mastery, such as kestrels hovering or the skylark’s evocative, near-vertical song-flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many family-friendly hikes in Wales?
Yes, Wales offers numerous trails suitable for families. For an easy and accessible outing, consider the Rother Valley Country Park loop. Many trails in the Brecon Beacons are also great for a family day out, offering gentle hills and well-defined paths.
Where can I find the best waterfall walks?
The Brecon Beacons National Park is famously known as 'Waterfall Country'. This area, particularly around Pontneddfechan, is a top-rated favorite for its numerous accessible waterfalls. A must-see is Henrhyd Falls, the tallest waterfall in South Wales, where you can even walk behind the cascade. Another popular option is Rhaeadr Fawr (Aber Falls) in Snowdonia.
What are the best coastal walks in Wales?
Wales is renowned for its stunning coastline. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is Britain's only coastal National Park and offers 186 miles of dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches. You can walk shorter sections, with the areas around St David's Peninsula being particularly scenic. The Wales Coast Path covers the entire 870-mile coastline for a truly epic adventure.
Can I take my dog on hikes in Wales?
Most trails in Wales are dog-friendly, but it's important to check local regulations, especially in National Parks during lambing season. Always keep your dog on a lead where livestock is present. Many rural pubs are also welcoming to dogs, making it easy to plan a post-hike refreshment.
What are some good circular walks?
Circular routes are plentiful. For a moderately challenging loop that takes in varied scenery, the Thorpe Top Treble Lock – Thorpe Top Treble Lock No. 21 loop from Wales offers a great experience. Many classic mountain routes, like the Pen y Fan horseshoe in the Brecon Beacons, are also circular.
How do the main hiking regions like Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons compare?
They offer very different experiences. Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park in the north is rugged and mountainous, home to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and challenging scrambles. Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park in the south features rolling green hills, dramatic escarpments like Pen y Fan, and the famous 'waterfall country'.
Are there any easy hikes for beginners?
Absolutely. There are many accessible trails with minimal elevation. The Nethermoor Lake – Rother Valley Country Park loop from Killamarsh is a short and gentle walk perfect for beginners. The coastal paths in Pembrokeshire and the Gower Peninsula also have flatter sections ideal for a first-time hiker.
What are some popular places for hiking in Wales?
Hikers in Wales are spoilt for choice with several highly-regarded areas:
- Eryri National Park (Snowdonia): A world-famous destination offering everything from gentle lakeside walks to strenuous mountain climbs.
- Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons): Known for its expansive moorland, iconic peaks like Pen y Fan, and beautiful waterfalls.
- Waterfall Country: A specific, much-loved area within the Brecon Beacons, celebrated for its high concentration of stunning waterfalls.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Wales?
The trails are very highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible variety, from the dramatic mountain scenery of Snowdonia to the breathtaking views along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Are there any long-distance national trails?
Yes, Wales is home to several famous long-distance paths. The Offa's Dyke Path traces the historic border with England, while the Glyndŵr's Way offers a quieter journey through Mid Wales. For the ultimate challenge, the 870-mile Wales Coast Path covers the entire coastline. You can find more information on these at Visit Wales.
What should I pack for hiking in Wales?
The weather in Wales can change very quickly, especially in the mountains. Essential items include waterproof clothing (jacket and trousers), sturdy hiking boots, extra layers of clothing, a map and compass (or a fully charged phone with a GPS app), plenty of water, and snacks. Even on a sunny day, it's wise to be prepared for rain and wind.
How difficult are the mountain hikes like Snowdon or Pen y Fan?
Difficulty varies greatly. The main paths up Pen y Fan are strenuous but manageable for most fit walkers. Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) offers multiple routes, from the gradual Llanberis Path to the infamous Crib Goch, which is a technical scramble for experienced mountaineers only. Always research your specific route and check the weather before you go.
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