An Offa's Dyke taster - Knighton to Presteigne
A moderate walk (low hills and fells (below 600m)) starting and finishing in Powys, Wales, about 11.70km (7.27 mi) long with an estimated walking time of about 4:00h. It is unsuitable for families with children, prams & pushchairs, wheelchairs.
Elevation Profile
Ascent
200m (656ft)
Descent
225m (738ft)
Max. Elevation
390m (1279ft)
Altitude Gain & Loss
425m (1394ft)
Start
Knighton
End
Presteigne
Distance
11.70km
(7.27mi)
(7.27mi)
Duration
~4:00h
Difficulty
Moderate
Ordnance Survey Map
Mid-Wales and the Marches are glorious walking territory. While the hills here may lack height compared to those further north, the climbs are still steep and the views stunning. This route follows a short section of the Offa's Dyke path. Sections of the famous historical earthwork are clearly visible at some points. The walk can be done in either direction; regular buses run between the two towns.
Walk Functions
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Nearby Walks
Five Turnings to Knighton – Offa Hoppa Walk 6
A leisurely, linear walk (low hills and fells (below 600m)) starting in Shropshire, England, about 4.10km (2.55 mi) long, duration: ~1:15h.Knucklas to Knighton
A moderate, linear walk (countryside) starting in Powys, Wales, about 14.70km (9.13 mi) long, duration: ~5:15h.Knucklas to Knighton - Offa Hoppa Walk 5
A leisurely, linear walk (low hills and fells (below 600m)) starting in Powys, Wales, about 6.50km (4.04 mi) long, duration: ~2:15h.Walk Map
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Waypoints
OS Grid SO291724
The walk can be done in either direction, but for argument's sake, let's start at the train station in Knighton. Follow the road into the town centre, and at the road T junction, cross over and follow the road just to the left. You should be able to spot a sign pointing to the Offa's Dyke.
OS Grid SO282713
The path is clearly signposted most of the way, as this is a national trail. Walk through a small patch of woodland on to the golf course on the hill of Ffridd. At the top of the hill, you should be able to make out the dyke to the right of the path.
About 1.48 km (~0.92 miles) from 
OS Grid SO278696
The Offa's Dyke path passes through the small hamlet of Rhos-y-meirch. So just keep following those signs! Easy navigation means you can enjoy the wonderful views.
About 1.63 km (~1.01 miles) from 
OS Grid SO286684
The ditch is particularly prominent along the section that crosses Cwm-Whitton Hill and Hengwm Hill. Time for a bit of history - the dyke was constructed under Offa, King of Mercia, in the 8th Century. It is thought to mark the boundary between the Kingdoms of Mercia and Powys.
About 1.47 km (~0.91 miles) from 
OS Grid SO278662
The route continues along the edge of the hills, over Hawthorn Hill and Furrow Hill. Dropping off Furrow Hill, it's time to stop daydreaming and get the map out. At Dolley Green, follow the road heading east for a short stretch and pick up the bridleway at Lower Ackhill.
About 2.25 km (~1.4 miles) from 
OS Grid SO309655
Where the bridleway meets the road (B4355), turn right (south) and head into Presteigne.
About 3.17 km (~1.97 miles) from 
PresteigneOS Grid SO314642
Like many of the towns around here, Presteigne is rather charming. Plenty of tea shops, country pubs and quiet streets to bumble around before catching the bus onwards to explore more of mid Wales.
About 1.42 km (~0.88 miles) from 
