Offa’s Dyke near Chirk – accomodation and information

The Offa’s Dyke path runs a few miles to the east of our self catering holiday cottage in Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog in the picturesque Ceiriog Valley. The section of the path that stretches from Llanymynech via Chirk Castle (National Trust), past Llangollen and up to Llandegla makes for some great walking and is packed with history.

The path follows the English / Welsh border for 177 miles alongside the 8th Century Offa’s Dyke and stretches from Chepstow in the south to Prestatyn in the north. It is believed Offa ordered the dyke to be built to separate his Kingdom of Mercia from rival kingdoms in what is now Wales. We have walked the section around Chirk many times with our children and they particularly like heading up into Chirk Castle and exploring further.

There is a great section of the dyke clearly visible if you head up from the B4500 into the castle grounds. For history lovers the area is also the site of the Battle of Crogen which was fought in 1165, between the forces of Henry II of England and a group of Welsh princes led by Owain Gwynedd. The dead from the battle being buried at the Gate of the Dead which has an oak tree reputedly to be over 1000 years old marking the burial area.

The National Trust have a good circular walk around Chirk Castle available on their website which takes in the scene of the battle. A good general resources for walking the path is the National Trail website.

Our holiday cottage in Llanarmon is ideal if you are looking for accommodation close to Offa’s Dyke. You can reach Llanarmon by public bus from Chirk (the path runs past Chirk) and we have a couple of great pubs in the village doing excellent food and drink. Just the thing after a days walking. Further information Cafe in Chirk and also at Chirk Castle. Public toilet in Chirk. Public transport available but check bus times. Train station at Chirk. Great place for cycling also.

Further information