I walked Offa's Dyke Path unsupported from south to north in 14 days with friends, Alan and Will. We were blessed with fine Autumnal weather, much sunshine and only two rainy afternoons. Having not walked together previously, we trained beforehand, walking on the Clwydian and Carneddau hills in North Wales with full packs to check our kit, fitness and walking compatibility.Offa's Dyke Path is well signed throughout, but check the direction of arrows at gates and styles, and always look for the National Trail acorn icon to avoid diverting onto other crossing routes with similar markers. We also used the Cicerone route map booklet, containing extracts from Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 Explorer maps.We pre-booked all our accommodation €“ a mix of bed and breakfast, and hostels €“ found on the Offa's Dyke Association and National Trail websites. We also bought sandwich lunches in advance, because rural Welsh pubs are often closed on weekday lunchtimes outside high season.We all walked with trekking poles, which were especially useful on steep, muddy downhill slopes with slippery leaves and rocks after rain. I would recommend footwear with good ankle support too.I had walked Offa's Dyke Path 35 years ago and knew the scenery to be wonderful and varied. Of the 7 National Trails I have completed, Offa's Dyke was my clear favourite to repeat. The walk was even better second time around.

Dyddiad Cwblhau
07/10/17