explore the beauty of the borderlands
Join us on an invigorating four-day journey hiking our favourite section of the Offa’s Dyke National trail.
Immerse yourself in the glorious countryside and charming villages along the Welsh-English border as we walk atop breathtaking ridges, meander down green valleys and wander through historic market towns.
Each evening relax in the warm hospitality of local inns and restaurants, where we’ll share stories over pints of cider and plates piled high with hearty fare, before we retreat to our stylish accommodation.
De-stress and reconnect with nature on this short break, and discover why Lonely Planet featured the Offa’s Dyke Path among the world’s greatest walks.
tour highlights
why choose offa's dyke?
- Hike the most scenic section of the Offa's Dyke National Trail
- Travel in an intimate group of up to 8 walkers
- Soak up glorious views of the English and Welsh countryside
- Visit a sustainable cider farm for a tour & tasting
- Dine on delicious meals featuring seasonal, local produce
- Enjoy relaxed pace walking in the company of your friendly local guides
Trip Length
4 Days | 3 Nights.
The tour starts at Leominster Train Station and finishes at Hereford Train Station, Herefordshire
Available dates
20 June - 23 June
5 September - 8 September - Full
12 September - 15 September
group size
Maximum 8
Fitness
Moderate
2 - 5 hours of hiking per day. Undulating terrain - typically country lanes, footpaths, fields and open heathland. Some sections will be rugged underfoot where you will be walking over tree roots, mud and rocks. There will be some stiles to climb over and some short, steep sections - but the views will be worth it! We'll walk at an easy going pace with plenty of time for short breaks to soak up the scenery, take photos and enjoy refreshments.
You will get the most out of this tour if you have a good level of fitness and some hiking experience.
Included
* 3 nights’ accommodation in a stylish country retreat
* Two local guides with you throughout the tour
* All meals including gourmet picnics and a-la-carte dinners
* Transport by private minibus
* Loan of walking poles and sit mat for the duration of the tour
* All entrance fees and special visits as noted in the itinerary
* Comprehensive pre-trip information
Not Included
* Travel to and from the start / end of the tour
* Travel Insurance
* Extra nights before and / or after your tour
* Drinks and other personal items
Price
£997 GBP | $1239 USD per person based on 2 people sharing a room
* Travelling solo? We'll match you with a roommate of the same gender, or you can request your own room for an additional supplement.
Day One - Thursday
We’ll collect you from Leominster train station in the early afternoon before heading off to take our first steps on the Offa’s Dyke Path.
This afternoons gentle 3 mile hike gives you a good chance to stretch your legs and get to know the rest of the group.
Our route takes us along, and even on top of, stretches of the Dyke itself. The impressive earthwork is Britain’s longest ancient monument stretching 177 miles along the border between England and Wales. How, or why, it was built remains a mystery as there are no written records from the time to tell us what led the Saxon King Offa to construct the Dyke. We’ll enjoy sublime views over the Shropshire Hills and across into Wales before descending to Dolley Green where we’ll meet our transport.
With our first hike under our belt we’ll take a short drive to Penrhos Court. We’re based here for all three nights giving you the chance to unpack and enjoy your stylish accommodation. This evening, a short drive takes us to our dinner venue where we’ll tuck into delicious farm-to-table cuisine made from locally-sourced ingredients.
3 miles guided walk, total ascent 39 m
Meals Included: Dinner
Day two - Friday
After a tasty breakfast, we’ll resume our walk at Dolley Green. Crossing the River Lugg, we may glimpse a kingfisher or spot a dipper, before we start to climb our first hill of the day. The path undulates through beautiful countryside taking us past ancient castle rings and hillforts. A short climb up Herrock Hill rewards us with breathtaking views and a stop for lunch. From here we traverse Rushock Hill before we drop down to the market town of Kington.
Our hike ends at Hergest Croft Gardens. With a unique collection of over 5,000 rare plants, trees and shrubs and stunning views towards the Black Mountains, the gardens are a hidden gem in the heart of the Welsh Marches. They also have a very good tearoom where you can indulge in a post walk treat.
For dinner we head out to the black-and-white village of Weobley for a relaxed meal at a well loved local restaurant housed in a traditional half-timbered building.
8 miles guided walk, total ascent 513 m
Meals Included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch and Dinner
Day three - Saturday
This morning we start with a steady climb up Hergest Ridge where we’re greeted with more magical views over Radnorshire, Herefordshire and the Black Mountains.
Straddling the border between England and Wales, walking the ridge is an unforgettable highlight of the Offa’s Dyke Path. After soaking in the views from the top, we’ll descend to the quaint village of Gladestry and make our way through the rolling countryside to the hamlet of Newchurch.
We’ve saved something special for this afternoon – a visit to a local cider farm where 100% natural cider is traditionally made from apples handpicked from their ancient orchards. Hear from the owners about how they make their artisanal ciders and perries. Of course we’ll also get to sample their tasty creations before making our way back to base.
Tonight’s meal is enjoyed at Penrhos Court so there’s plenty of time to relax or enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the Python Arms.
7.5 miles guided walk, total ascent 343 m
Meals Included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch and Dinner
Day Four - Sunday
Our final day’s hike take us to the picturesque town of Hay-on-Wye.
It’s an easy walk this morning through fields and along country lanes. We’ll cross a small hill called Little Mountain, and enjoy a delightful walk through the woodland of Bettws Dingle, before we meet the River Wye which we’ll follow in to Hay.
Hay-on-Wye is famous for its international book festival and it’s narrow lanes are lined with colourful independent shops and antiquarian booksellers.
Lunch is a short drive from Hay, on a local farm nestled in the Black Mountains. We’ll sit down to enjoy a twist on a traditional Sunday roast, with meat and vegetables cooked over a wood fire, as we toast to newly made friends and memories.
We expect to drop you off at Hereford train station around 4pm where we’ll say our farewells.
6.8 miles guided walk, total ascent 207 m
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Nights 1 - 3
Penrhos Court
Herefordshire, England
Penrhos Court is a place to relax and unwind. Nestled within the glorious Herefordshire countryside, this former celebrity hideaway has seven luxurious, self-contained cottages, an excellent on-site restaurant and idyllic views across the surrounding countryside. Steeped in fascinating history – stylish en-suite rooms are packed with period features and gorgeously decorated with muted, natural tones that reflect the rural landscape.
You’ll retreat here after a days walking to refresh, enjoy a delicious dinner and sleep in your spacious, private bedroom.
Our accommodation is separated into two cottages. Each cottage has a spacious lounge and kitchen area. All the bedrooms are ensuite with king beds.
*One room is available for twin share (subject to availability)
*Upgrade to a one bedroom cottage with super-king bed (subject to availability)
- Free Wifi
- Fridge in room
- Eco friendly bath products
Dates & Prices 2024
Prices are in GBP based on two people sharing a twin or double room.
How Fit do I need to be?
We recommend that you need to be reasonably fit to enjoy this tour.
The hikes range from 5 miles on day one to 11 miles on day three. There is some elevation gain on most days but the pace will be leisurely with plenty of breaks to take photos and soak in the scenery. You should be able to comfortably walk for up to 5 hours.
What is the terrain like?
The terrain is a mix of good trails, grassy paths, some country roads, and occasionally some rougher uneven ground. There are some steep sections but nothing technically difficult. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended. Trekking poles are available to borrow.
What will the weather be like?
Spring and summer is a lovely time to walk the Offa’s Dyke Path. Daytime temperatures are usually mild ranging from 55 -75°F. Rain is always a possibilty so having good quality rain gear is essential. Your guides will monitor forecasts closely and adjust plans if needed.
Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
The food celebrates the best of local Welsh and Herefordshire produce. Expect dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients from local suppliers.
Breakfast hampers will be enjoyed in our cottages. Gourmet picnic lunches are provided for the walks. Dinners are taken at a selection of hand picked local restaurants choosen for their great food and atmosphere.
Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated. Please inform us of any food allergies or preferences when booking.
How do I get to the start of the tour?
As part of our commitment to operating environmentally friendly tours, we’ve designed our trips so that you can arrive and depart by train.
Transport for Wales operate trains to Leominster and Hereford, with connections available from London via Newport, South Wales.
If you’d prefer to travel by car please let us know when you book.
Contact us if you have any questions or need help planning your transport.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 42 days prior for a full refund minus a £75 pp fee. The trip is non-refundable if cancelled less than 21 days before the tour start date. Travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect against cancellation costs. Our full booking terms and conditions are here.
How do I make a booking?
You can reserve your space online or by sending an email to [email protected].
Choose your preferred date and fill out your details. We’ll send you a secure deposit payment link by email. Once your deposit has been received your booking is confirmed.
Booking requests received within 6 weeks of the tour start date will require full payment straight away.
Contact us if you have any questions or queries.