Moel Famau, Offa’s Dyke path and Foel Fenlli

On a clear day, the walk offers great views along Offa’s Dyke walking south from Moel Famau and taking in the short but steep ascent of Foel Fenlli. Walking is almost entirely on tracks and hillside paths and is manageable in all but the worst of weathers. There are a couple steep ascents at the beginning of the walk so we will soon warm up!

Blue

Sunday 11 January 2026

NO dogs allowed

This is a classic North-Wales walk with great views along the Offa’s Dyke path and a gentle circular return path through the Llanferres valley. The walk begins at the lower of the two Moel Famau car parks on Bwlch Pen Barras. The car park has public toilets and is pay and display.

Firstly, we climb up to Moel Famau which is a short but steep walk on good paths. Descending south from Moel Famau onto the Offa’s Dyke path, and on reaching the upper car park, we ascend again continuing along Offa’s Dyke to the Foel Fenlli Fort (or Moel Fenlli).

Foel Fenlli is an impressive Iron Age hillfort in North Wales, used from around 500 BC, featuring multiple ramparts, hut platforms, and evidence of Roman presence. It later became associated with Welsh legend, particularly King Benlli in the 5th century. The fort continued to hold strategic importance through Roman and post-Roman eras, offering vast views and serving as a potential watchtower.

After a steep descent from Moel Fenlli, we leave the Offa’s Dyke path and traverse around the lower slopes of Fron Hen back to the car park.

Terrain:
Some steep ascents on loose shale and one particularly steep descent. Mainly on clearly-marked footpaths and crossing hills, fields and stiles (which will be muddy in winter). Waterproofs and walking boots are essential.
Map/Area:
OS 265 Clwydian Range
Starting Point:
The Coed Moel Famau NRW car park on Bwlch Pen Barras signposted right after the Loggerheads Garage on the A494. Pay before you leave card/contactless payment ONLY £6/day.
What3Words:
///movie.jolt.eyeliner
Walk Starts:
10:00
Walk Finishes:
15:00
Distance:
11km
Ascent:
560m
Highest Point:
Moel Famau (554 metres)

Safety

Let the walk leader know of any relevant medical conditions

Refer to the Handbook for walk related information and specifically for recommended walking equipment and safety information

Remember you are responsible for being properly equipped

Ensure you have the walk leader’s phone number in case of an emergency

If you become detached from the group STOP, call out; try contacting group by phone or text. If no contact return to the last place you were with the group. Wait 30 mins repeatedly trying to make contact. After 30 mins seek help and/or make your own way safely.

The Google map below is the location of the walk start point.