4.4
(17)
2,804
runners
212
runs
Jogging around Waen offers diverse terrains within the scenic Vale of Clwyd and close to the Clwydian Range. The region features expansive open vales, tranquil river valleys, and serene woodlands, providing varied running environments. Joggers can experience flat paths along rivers or more challenging routes through rolling hills and heather-clad uplands. This area in Denbighshire, Wales, is characterized by its natural beauty and varied topography.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
18
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
runners
9.83km
01:01
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
14
runners
6.76km
00:42
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
runners
13.6km
01:25
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
13.2km
01:23
90m
90m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Cathedral Church of Saints Asaph and Cyndeyrn, commonly called St Asaph Cathedral, is a cathedral in St Asaph, Denbighshire, north Wales. It is the episcopal seat of the Bishop of St Asaph. The cathedral dates back 1,400 years, while the current building dates from the 13th century.Β
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The story of Rhuddlan goes back much further than the fortress built by Edward I. Prior to the Norman occupation of lower Gwynedd, Rhuddlan was at the heart of a Welsh cantref. From here the Lords of Rhuddlan commanded the Perfeddwlad (lands of north-east Wales) on behalf of Gruffydd ap Llywelyn (1007 β 5 August 1063), the last ruler of all Wales. The town itself, however, began as a Saxon "burgh" founded by Edward the Elder.
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Rhuddlan Castle is a castle located in Rhuddlan, Denbighshire, Wales. It was erected by Edward I in 1277, following the First Welsh War. Much of the work was overseen by master mason James of Saint George
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Rhuddlan Nature Reserve is fully accessible for all. The site has been transformed into an ideal location for wildlife to thrive and a recreational area for local people and visitors. The short route takes you around ponds, where birds nest every year and meadows, which have been recently improved in partnership with the local community and schools.
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St Margaret's Church, Bodelwyddan, nicknamed the Marble Church, is a Decorated Gothic Style parish church in the lower Vale of Clwyd in Denbighshire, Wales and is visible for many miles because its spire rises to 202 feet. It lies just off the A55 trunk road.
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Awesome feat of engineering still towers above the River Clwyd King Edward I liked his castles to be on the coast. It was safer that way. If his ruthless campaign to subdue the Welsh ran into trouble, supplies could still get through by sea. At Rhuddlan, several miles inland, the plan was to use a river instead. Just one problem β the meandering Clwyd wasnβt quite in the right place. So Edward conscripted hundreds of ditch-diggers to deepen and divert its course. More than seven centuries later Rhuddlan still looks like a castle that was worth moving a river for. Begun in 1277 it was the first of the revolutionary concentric, or βwalls within wallsβ, castles designed by master architect James of St George.
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Most impressive was the inner diamond-shaped stronghold with its twin-towered gatehouses. This sat inside a ring of lower turreted walls. Further beyond was a deep dry moat linked to the River Clwyd. This bristling statement of Edwardian intent guarded a new town surrounded by ditched defences. You can still clearly make out the medieval grid layout of the streets in modern-day Rhuddlan.
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King Edward I liked his castles to be on the coast. It was safer that way. If his ruthless campaign to subdue the Welsh ran into trouble, supplies could still get through by sea. At Rhuddlan, several miles inland, the plan was to use a river instead. Just one problem β the meandering Clwyd wasnβt quite in the right place. So Edward conscripted hundreds of ditch-diggers to deepen and divert its course. More than seven centuries later Rhuddlan still looks like a castle that was worth moving a river for. Begun in 1277 it was the first of the revolutionary concentric, or βwalls within wallsβ, castles designed by master architect James of St George.
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Waen and its surrounding area offer a wide variety of running experiences, with over 200 routes available. These range from easy riverside paths to more challenging ascents in the hills, catering to different fitness levels.
Yes, Waen provides several easy running options, with 19 routes specifically rated as easy. These often follow tranquil river valleys or flatter sections of the Vale of Clwyd, perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed run. An example is the Running loop from St Asaph, which is an easy 4.5 km path.
The terrain around Waen is incredibly diverse. You'll find expansive open vales, tranquil river valleys, and serene woodlands in the Vale of Clwyd. Closer to the Clwydian Range, routes feature rolling hills and heather-clad uplands, offering invigorating climbs and panoramic views. This variety ensures a different experience for every run.
Yes, many of the running routes around Waen are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the popular Rhuddlan Nature Reserve loop from St Asaph is a moderate 14.3 km circular trail.
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can encounter dramatic landscapes of the Clwydian Range, ancient hillforts, and tranquil river valleys. Notable highlights include the stunning Dyserth Waterfall, the panoramic views from Penycloddiau Summit, and the historical Moel y Gaer Hillfort. Some routes, like the Rhuddlan Nature Reserve β Rhuddlan Castle loop from St Asaph, even pass by historical structures like Rhuddlan Castle.
Many routes in the Vale of Clwyd are suitable for families, especially those that follow flatter paths along rivers or through woodlands. Loggerheads Country Park, nearby in Denbighshire, also offers family-friendly trails. Look for the 'easy' graded routes for the most suitable options.
Generally, dogs are welcome on many public footpaths and trails in the Waen area. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through farmland with livestock or in nature reserves, to protect wildlife and ensure safety. Please check local signage for specific restrictions.
The running routes in Waen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse and picturesque landscapes, from tranquil river valleys to invigorating hill climbs, and the peaceful atmosphere that makes for an engaging outdoor experience.
While Waen is a small community, many routes are accessible from nearby towns like St Asaph, which has better public transport links. You can find routes starting directly from St Asaph, such as the Running loop from St Asaph, making them more convenient for those using public transport.
While Waen itself is small, nearby St Asaph offers amenities like cafes and pubs. Some routes, like the St Asaph Cathedral β The Flowerpot CafΓ© loop from St Asaph, are designed to pass by such establishments, allowing for a convenient stop during or after your run.
The Vale of Clwyd and Clwydian Range offer beautiful scenery year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes, with blooming wildflowers or rich autumnal colours. Summer is ideal for longer runs, while winter can offer crisp, clear days, though some higher or less maintained trails might be more challenging due to weather conditions.


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