Country Walks Near Cardiff

As well as being a vibrant and bustling city, Cardiff is also immersed in beautiful greenery and countryside. It’s closely neighboured by some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, offering a number of different walk trails and hikes.

From stunning country parks to scenic trails, Cardiff has some of the most beautiful Country walks neighbouring the city and we have made a list of only the best below...

Margam Country Park

About: Margam Country Park is a stunning park situated in Neath, offering a wonderful array of walks and is just a 30-minute drive from Cardiff! The 800 acres of Margam Park provides a perfect backdrop for a wander in the countryside, whether it be a stroll after Sunday lunch or a hike to the sister country park in the Afan Valley. There are a few different hikes available, all with varying lengths and levels of difficulty, meaning you can come back to this idyllic location more than once!

Location: Port Talbot, Neath, Wales, SA13 2TJ

Bute Park

About: Bute Park is Cardiff's biggest city centre park, with 130 acres of meadows, woodland and parkland to explore. Bute Park is the perfect place for spotting wildlife, hunting for sculptures, learning about the history of the park and lots more. Bute Park provides a wonderful walk that takes you along the banks of the River Taff. They have a number of different free trails for everyone: families, couples and hikers. 

Location: North Road, Cardiff, Wales, CF10 3ER

Castle Coch & Fforest Fawr

About: Castell Coch is not just known for its beautiful medieval stately castle, but also the surrounding woodlands which makes the perfect leisurely stroll. A castle has stood on this site since 1081, so there's plenty of history to explore whilst on your walk. Just a short drive outside of Cardiff, it offers roughly a 1.5mile long trail, designed to take children on a magical journey through the forest, with many trails for walking and cycling.

Location: Tongwynlais, Cardiff, Wales, CF15 7JS

Sgwd yr Eira

About: A quick drive out of the city and into the heart of waterfall country, the Sgwd yr Eira trail is a challenging trail that pays off with its picturesque views. The route takes you through some of the area’s serene woodland before a couple of climbs lead you to the pristine waterfall, Sgwd yr Eira. The walk itself is roughly 2.5mi and will lead you right underneath the waterfall!

Location: Neath, Wales, CF44 9JZ

Machen Forge Trail

About: A three-mile circular stroll around the industrial past of villages like Machen, Waterloo and the wider countryside of the Rhymney Valley. This is a generally flat route, where you'll go past past various pubs, across farmland, down bridleways and through woodland. You'll end the route with amazing views across the valley, this walk is definitely one that calls for bringing your camera.

Location: Machen, Wales

Iron Bridge Circular Walk, Newport

About: The Iron Bridge Circular Walk is one of Newport Council’s shortest promoted walks, although it still remains incredibly picturesque. The route follows paths and public footpaths which can become quite muddy during bad weather so make sure to wear suitable footwear. This is a beautiful walk to go on after a heavy Sunday Lunch or if you're just feeling a brisk walk somewhere outside of the city.

Location: Newport, Wales, NP10 8GF