Wales Coast Path from Chester to Flint
Laura Harris
The Wales Coast Path holds the remarkable title of being the first path in the world to follow a country’s coastline in its entirety and stretches for a whopping 870 miles. Why not make the most of Wale’s natural assets and spend a day on one of the beaches along the way? The more adventurous might embark on a knuckle-biting adventure at the rapids at Cardiff International White Water Centre. And for a slice of culture, be sure to check out Donats Arts Centre, a unique arts centre in the grounds of a medieval castle overlooking the sea. Along the Wales Coast Path you’ll find the very best of what Wales has to offer.
Although technically starting on the border with England near Saltney in Flintshire, the route unofficially starts in Chester’s historic city centre. To get to the Wales Coast Path from Chester, follow the Chester Canal Link from the Station. This is not way-marked, but is a relatively straightforward route taking in the towpath of the Shropshire Union Canal– though at 20km it’s quite the stretch. For the cyclists this is a well-manged and popular cycling route, the NCN 89, which will take you right to the Welsh border and the start of the Wales Coastal Path proper.
The North Wales section of the Wales Coast Path can be divided into six manageable sections, and is 154km in length. These sections include the starting walk, from Chester to Flint, and go on to take in Prestatyn, Colwyn Bay, and Menai Bridge. Along with the Sandstone Trail, the access to this walking route makes Chester a great destination for seasoned walkers.
Walking the Wales Coast Path is a commitment that would take many return trips, but with each new section comes new rewards. And for those looking for a more manageable walk, its way-markings and clear maps make it a great way to design a walk to suit your walking desires.
