Celebrate Calan Mai with a walk on the Wales Coast Path

01 May 2023

Marking the coming of summer, Calan Mai or May Day is a Welsh celebration with traditions dating back to the time of the druids*. To mark the change of season, and National Walking Month, we’ve put together a list of walks along the Wales Coast Path, all easily accessible by rail.

Unique in both its scenery and design, the Wales Coast Path follows 870 miles of coastline, allowing walkers, wheelers and cyclers the opportunity to explore the perimeter of Wales. With parts of the path connected by our rail network, you can leave the car at home and travel to and from the path at your leisure.

Flint

A short walk from Flint Station takes you to Flint Castle and the start of this section of the Wales Coast Path. Largely completed in 1284, Flint Castle is one of the earliest and most unusual of the Welsh castles, founded as part of Edward I’s campaign against Llywelyn ap Gruffydd (Llywelyn the Last). From the castle, the path runs along the Dee estuary – one of the best bird watching locations in the country. Make sure to pack your binoculars to experience the incredible wildlife along this stretch of the path.

Llandudno Junction

Travelling along Conwy Road from Llandudno Station will lead you to two paths, with the choice of two historic towns - Conwy and Llandudno.

The market town of Conwy boasts many well-preserved medieval buildings, whilst Llandudno is known as the largest seaside resort in Wales. Take a look at our Things to Do Guides to plan your adventure.

Llanfair PG

Famous for its full name – Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, Llanfair PG station is the perfect place to stop and grab a photo – and have a go at pronouncing this uniquely titled town! The 3 mile walk from Llanfair PG to Menai Strait will take you past Britannia Bridge and the Menai Suspension Bridge, with views to the mainland and across rolling farmland.

Holyhead

With dramatic cliffs, ancient monuments, a lighthouse and a nature reserve, the walk along the Wales Coast Path from Holyhead highlights some of the incredible sights of Wales. From Holyhead Station, head down to the Celtic Gateway Bridge to begin your journey along this stunning section of coastline.

Cardiff Bay

One of the 20 train stations in Cardiff, Cardiff Bay serves the Cardiff Bay and Butetown areas, with over one and a half million passengers travelling through each year. From the station, follow the path past the Millennium Centre and the Senedd to the waterfront, there is a playground and skatepark along the way, as well as the famous Roald Dahl smiling crocodile. Download the Wales Coast Path app to experience Augmented Reality and discover what the docks were like over a hundred years ago!

Fishguard and Goodwick

Known for it’s dramatic clifftop walks, this part of the Wales Coast Path has plenty for those who enjoy sweeping ocean views. Travel north through Fishguard, a typical Welsh fishing village, toward Newport, or head west to visit Strumble Head lighthouse on Ynysmeicl (St. Michael's Island).

Barry Island

Passing right in front of Barry Station, the Wales Coast Path is a fantastic way to explore Barry Island via a loop walking trail. A popular tourist destination, Barry Island features a wide variety of attractions such as the Pleasure Park, with many rides including a roller coaster, carousel and water play area, as well as the stunning sandy beach and ruins of St. Baruc's Church.