The best walks and hikes around Knighton
4.1
(168)
914
hikers
29
hikes
Hikes around Knighton explore the rolling hills and river valleys on the border between Wales and England. The region is characterized by a mix of woodland paths, such as those in Kinsley Wood, and open moorland within the Shropshire Hills. Knighton is also a notable location for long-distance walkers, as it is the only town where the Offa's Dyke Path and Glyndŵr's Way national trails intersect.
Best hiking trails around Knighton
- The most popular hiking route is Knighton to Cwm-Sanaham…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.3
(6)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
13
hikers
17.4km
05:10
500m
500m
Embark on the Heart of Wales Line and Offa's Dyke Path Loop, a difficult hiking route that challenges you with its relentlessly hilly and diverse landscape. This demanding trail covers…
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3
hikers
13.0km
03:45
300m
300m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
29
hikers
13.0km
03:52
360m
360m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
12
hikers
5.13km
01:36
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Knighton
Glyndŵr’s Way – hiking in the footsteps of a Welsh hero
Offa's Dyke Path — Epic coast-to-coast hike along ancient monument
Welsh Border to Irish Sea Bikepacking — Trans Cambrian Way
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Tips from the Community
This is the start point of the Glyndŵr's Way National Trail which winds through mid-Wales and ends at Welshpool. It's not as popular a trail as Offa's Dyke which is the main reason you'll meet other hikers here in Knighton.
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Knighton is a beautiful border market town and is unique in being the only town to sit astride Offa's Dyke national footpath. It is also notable as the starting point of Glyndwr's Way, following the route of the Welsh leader's significant battles. It is also a mecca for border cyclists and there are plenty of routes to navigate the surrounding hills and stunning countryside.
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Cwm-Sanaham is an elevated hilltop located near Knighton in Shropshire. From this vantage point, you can enjoy wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding countryside across rolling hills, meandering streams and picturesque landscapes.
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An opportunity to get overwhelmed by huge amounts of info about Offa's Dyke. And go to the toilet before you set off!
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Located close to the Anglo-Welsh border and skirted by Offa's Dyke, this enchanting wooded hill is dominated by larch and Douglas fir, planted in the 1950s to replenish timber stores in Britain after WWII. There's a wealth of trails and forest roads to explore on foot. It's an enjoyable place to visit at any time of year, but in the autumn the initials 'ER' appear on the wooded slopes, an arrangement planted in 1953 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth's coronation.
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Great stop for cyclists, good coffee, cake and lunchtime light meals. Massive selection of teas. Interesting items for sale
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Before I tell you about the most amazing views on top of Cwm-Sanaham Hill, I want to explain about how I got to the trig point so that you can follow what I did. Firstly, there is a steep ascent up the hill which can be very tough, so it's best if you are prepared if you're tackling it. What I did was that I charged straight up the steep pathway to which I found myself on a very narrow ledge. You can take your time when walking up that first section of footpath. There is even a shear drop down below, so I walked along the path slowly and carefully. Secondly came the easier part, which was when I saw the trig point straight up ahead with the path still visible to follow. After I went past the narrow ledge, the path was then more grassy, which made things a lot more straightforward. There was no more drops to worry about, but instead the path was more even. Eventually, I arrived at the top of the hill where the trig point was located. I was then met with the most beautiful views I had ever seen, which stretched from Knighton all the way to nearby Knucklas and the rest of the Welsh valleys. It was also where I had my lunch, which was quite a relief after all the hill climbing I did. Cwm-Sanaham Hill is 406m high and it's the perfect vantage point to see some of the most glorious views in that part of Wales.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks that start and end in Knighton?
Yes, Knighton is an excellent base for circular hikes. There are numerous loops of varying lengths that begin in town. For a shorter, easier walk, consider the Wales–England Border – Knighton Clock Tower loop from Knighton, which is just over 3 miles (5.1 km). Many routes combine sections of the famous Offa's Dyke Path and Glyndŵr's Way with local footpaths to bring you back to your starting point.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Knighton?
Most trails around Knighton are suitable for dogs, but it's important to be mindful of the landscape. You'll be walking through farmland with livestock, so always keep your dog on a lead in these areas. The paths through woodlands like Kinsley Wood are great for walking with a canine companion, but always check for local signage regarding ground-nesting birds, especially during spring.
What are some good options for an easy walk near Knighton?
The area offers several gentle walks perfect for a relaxed day out. The terrain around the River Teme provides pleasant, relatively flat riverside paths. For a structured but easy route, there are 10 easy-rated trails in the region. Many of the shorter circular walks starting from the town centre are also manageable for most fitness levels.
How can I hike a section of the Offa's Dyke Path from Knighton?
Knighton is a key point on the Offa's Dyke Path, and many circular routes incorporate a portion of it. You can walk a section of the trail heading north or south out of town and then loop back using local footpaths. The section around Knighton is known for its rolling hills, offering rewarding views and a taste of this historic National Trail without committing to a multi-day trek.
Are the hiking trails accessible by public transport?
Yes, Knighton is well-served by the Heart of Wales railway line, making it possible to plan hikes using the train. The Heart of Wales Line Trail itself connects stations along the route, offering unique linear walks where you can hike from one station to another. The Knighton to Cwm-Sanaham loop even incorporates a section of this trail.
What kind of scenery can I expect on walks near Knighton?
The landscape is classic Welsh Marches scenery. Expect a mix of rolling green hills, ancient woodlands like those in Kinsley Wood, and open moorland vistas, especially within the nearby Shropshire Hills. You'll also encounter historic earthworks, quiet river valleys along the River Teme, and panoramic views from hilltops like Cwm-Sanaham Hill.
Are there any challenging, long-distance hikes available?
Absolutely. Knighton is the starting point for the 135-mile (217 km) Glyndŵr's Way National Trail and sits on the 177-mile (285 km) Offa's Dyke Path. For a demanding day hike, the Kinsley Wood & Cwm-Sanaham Hill loop is a difficult 10.8-mile (17.4 km) route with significant elevation gain that will test your endurance.
Where can I find parking for my hike?
There are several public car parks available within the town of Knighton itself, which serve as convenient starting points for many local circular walks. For trails starting further afield, such as those deeper into the Shropshire Hills, you may find designated car parks at trailheads or in nearby villages. Always check for local parking restrictions, especially when parking on rural roads.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Knighton?
The trails around Knighton are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.0 stars. Hikers often praise the variety of the terrain, from the tranquil woodlands to the challenging climbs along the national trails. The well-preserved sections of Offa's Dyke and the stunning views across the border landscape are frequently mentioned as highlights.
Are there any family-friendly walks in the area?
Yes, there are several options suitable for families. Shorter, flatter walks along the River Teme can be enjoyable for all ages. The easier circular routes starting from the town centre, which avoid major climbs, are also a good choice. Exploring the woodlands of Mortimer Forest can be a great adventure for children, with marked paths of varying lengths.
What are some notable natural landmarks or viewpoints to see?
The region is part of the Shropshire Hills National Landscape, a sprawling reserve known for its picturesque scenery. For dramatic views, the Stiperstones National Nature Reserve is a highly-regarded spot featuring rugged quartzite tors like the Devil's Chair. The heather-covered hills of the Long Mynd also offer breathtaking panoramas and are a popular favourite for walkers.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from around Knighton?
You'll find a great selection of routes, with over 30 curated hiking trails available around Knighton. These range from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day treks, ensuring there's a walk to suit every ability and interest.
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