Wandering into Autumn: 8 Enchanting Walks Through Denbighshire

There’s something magical about autumn in North East Wales. The air turns crisp, the trees flame with russet and gold, and the countryside takes on that quiet, timeless glow that makes you want to pull on a scarf, grab a flask of tea, and wander. Denbighshire, with its ancient churches, misty hills and story-laced rivers, is the perfect place for such rambles — and thanks to its bus links, you can leave the car at home and let the season set the pace.

We wanted to highlight eight walks to savour this autumn from our booklet Sustainable walks.

1. The Well of St Tegla, Llandegla

A gentle circular stroll where leaves float along the Afon Alyn and hedgerows shimmer with late-autumn berries. Hidden in an alder grove, the ancient well feels timeless — a square pool that has mirrored centuries of seasons. As you walk back through the quiet lanes, the smell of woodsmoke drifts from the village and the community café is a welcome stop for a warming drink.

2. Llanelwy (St Asaph) Cathedral

Here, autumn light catches the deep red sandstone of one of Britain’s smallest cathedrals. The riverside paths along the Afon Elwy are dappled with gold leaves, and the peaceful hush of the cathedral offers a contrast to the wild history it has endured. End your walk with tea and cake in one of the town’s cosy cafés — a perfect autumn ritual.

3. Moel Tŷ Uchaf, Llandrillo

High above the valley, a Bronze Age stone circle keeps its watch. The 5-mile moorland path is a walk into history — and in autumn the bracken turns a burnished copper, in contrast to  the ancient stones. The silence here feels golden too, broken only by the wind and the cry of a buzzard overhead and maybe an inquisitive sheep.

4. The Nantglyn Yew

In the tiny village of Nantglyn, an ancient yew tree, older than memory itself, stands in the churchyard. Climb the steps into its hollow heart and imagine the sermons which may have been delivered from this sacred place and inhale the evergreen scent. Meander back towards Denbigh through lanes and fields, where autumn leaves crunch underfoot.

5. Eliseg’s Pillar, Llangollen

A battle weary remains of a memorial cross or rather the pillar you now see  in a sheep field may not sound too enchanting, but its story is rich with legend. In autumn, the surrounding hills — Castell Dinas Brân and the limestone crags of  Eglwyseg — glow with tawny light. Fieldfares and redwings flock to the thorn trees, their chatter accompanying your steps.

6. Coed Clocaenog

An autumn walk for those who love woodland. From the ancient oaks of Coed y Fron Wyllt to the soaring conifers around Pincyn Llys monument, this is a place of quiet grandeur. The air is thick with the scent of pine, damp moss, and fallen leaves. You may not spot the elusive red squirrels, but knowing they are out there, rustling in the canopy, adds a little magic.

7. Pont Dyfrdwy, Corwen

Here, the River Dee flexes and sparkles, carrying the season’s changing moods. The riverside, where oaks drop golden leaves into the water and mossy stone bridges invite lingering pauses. The walk links Corwen and Cynwyd, with plenty of places such as Rug Organic farm shop and café where you can rest and enjoy a hot drink along the way. Some of the walk has been recently been improved so it now accessible for all.

8. Penycloddiau, near Bodfari

For those who crave big skies, this Iron Age hillfort delivers. At 440m, the summit offers sweeping autumn views — the Clwydian hills glowing bronze, Eryri’s peaks frosted white in the distance, and the sea sparkling to the north. Up here, the wind is brisk and bracing, but there’s no better place to feel the season’s wild freedom and imagine life of an earlier dweller as it once must have been to live here.

Why Autumn in Denbighshire?

Because it’s quieter now so you can enjoy a slower pace, and every path feels like a story. Ancient wells, weathered cathedrals, Bronze Age stones, and Iron Age ramparts are scattered across the hills and valleys. And in autumn, they’re dressed in their finest: bracken blazes, rivers sing louder, and the bracing fresh air. Denbighshire is a place which can be enjoyed in every season so not make it a staycation so you can sample some of our unique places to stay and seasonal cuisine.

So, pack a flask, pull on your boots, and catch the bus into Denbighshire’s golden countryside. Whether it’s a quiet riverside amble or a windswept climb to a hillfort, these walks will enchant you with timeless spirit and colours of autumn. 🍂✨

You can download these walks here  for a more detailed description and recommended buses,  pick up a printed version directly from either of our Tourist Information Centres in Llangollen or Rhyl.