Offa's Dyke Path
From Free net encyclopedia
Offa's Dyke Path is a long distance footpath along the Welsh-English border. Opened in 1971, is one of the country's premier National Trails and draws visitors from throughout the world. Much of the 283 km (177 miles) long route either follows or keeps close company to the remnants of the 8th century earthwork, the majority of which was probably constructed by King Offa.
Most walkers travel south to north, starting by the Severn, at Sedbury, near Chepstow, and finishing at Prestatyn. The walk will take an average walker roughly 12 days to complete, although this can vary depending on fitness and attitude.
Following a man made border and ancient momument rather than natural features, the Dyke crosses a variety of different landscapes. The route crosses the Black Mountains, the Shropshire hills (including the many ups and downs of the 'Switchback', for many walkers the hardest part of the walk) the Eglwyseg mountains, and the Clwydian Hills.
It passes through, or close to, the towns of Monmouth, Hay-on-Wye, Kington, Knighton, Montgomery and Llangollen.
The half-way point of the walk is marked by the Offa's Dyke Centre in Knighton.