Best walks to Penarth

Dinas Powys Station to Penarth Station

A scenic route through country park and field paths away from busy roads. Some sections are very overgrown with nettles, the field between Cross Common Road and Sully Road can be very muddy or boggy after rain and with stiles to climb. Toilet facilities at Cosmeston Lakes.

Easy: 6km, moderate ascents.

Some paths are very overgrown with nettles, so cover your legs; the field crossing has stiles and can be very muddy, particularly in winter. An alternative via Watery Lane and Murch Road avoids the mud and stiles.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Cardiff Central Station to Penarth Station

some lovely views across the bay; great views over the bay; on a good day it is stunning. A simple, mostly flat and easy-to-follow route across the Cardiff Bay Barrage, on paved surfaces throughout that are good for wheels. From the Penarth end there is a fairly steep descent (or ascent) through the streets and after which it is completely flat. Some block-paving near the city can be slippery when wet. The barrage has a skate ramp, climbing wall, sailing club and play areas. An Aquabus can be taken across the bay as an alternative. There are public toilets along the way.

Easy: 6km, moderate ascents.

The barrage is occasionally closed, which adds significant distance via diversions, so check before setting off; it is also very exposed in bad weather.

Lunch: There are plenty of bars, cafés and eateries around Cardiff Bay, plus a small café at the Norwegian Church end of the barrage.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route

Barry Station to Penarth Station

the scenery is stunning. A coastal walk almost entirely along the Wales Coast Path. The Barry-to-Sully end is largely urban along busy roads, while the Sully-to-Penarth section is a pleasant and near traffic-free clifftop with sea views. Underfoot ranges from dirt and loose pebbles to a lot of tarmac road with no pavement; some sections of cliff walking are screened from the sea by hedges and trees. Largely follows the Wales Coast Path. Two caravan parks near Sully have toilets and cafes.

14km. Moderate ascents.

The long stretch between Sully and Barry runs along busy main roads, some with no pavement or lighting. The path near St Mary's Well Bay can be extremely muddy, especially in winter. Check tides before attempting the causeway to Sully Island.

Documented by Slow Ways — download GPX route