Things to do in the Vale of Clwyd this Autumn

The Vale of Clwyd is an area of outstanding natural beauty, and autumn is one of the most beautiful times to enjoy all that it has to offer. The unmistakable chain of summits of the Clwydian Range that are clad in purple heather moorland dominates the geography and forms one of the most distinctive landscapes in northeast Wales.

With breath-taking views from the summit of Moel Famau to quiet walks along to Llangollen, there are plenty of things to do after the warmth of summer has departed.

Here are some suggestions for autumn days out in and around the Vale of Clwyd.

Walk around Denbigh Castle

Once you are out of the gates of Oak View at Bryn Morfydd, it is less than a 5-minute drive to Denbigh Castle.

The walk around the castle grounds can be made as long or short as you would like, and dog walkers are welcome too. The views from the vantage point of the castle are worth the climb, as you can see right across the Clwydian Range, resplendent in autumnal colours.

The castle has a wonderful colourful history – having been built in the 13^th century by Edward I – and despite being in ruins it is still an imposing place to visit. (Read our blog about visiting Denbigh Castle ).

When you have finished your brisk autumnal walk why not pop into one of the coffee shops in Denbigh town before returning to your lodge to relax. There are several to choose from that serve the most delicious cakes and pastries – so we won’t be surprised if you bring a couple more back with you either.

Ruthin Craft Centre

The Craft Centre in Ruthin is a great idea for an autumnal visit. The centre is a 10-minute drive from Oak View and hosts three galleries, six artist studios, a retail gallery and café.

It houses some fantastic exhibition rooms – and has a change of exhibition approximately every 3 or 4 months. As well as the main exhibition galleries you will find smaller display galleries from local artists.

Entrance to the craft centre is free, and there is also a lovely cafe/restaurant on site called Cafe R. It is perfect for coffee and cake or even lunch (you might be picking up a theme here 😉 ).

Theatre Clwyd

If the weather is on the chilly side, why not take the opportunity to visit Theatr Clwyd in Mold. The theatre hosts world class productions throughout the year. It is always a hub of activity with films, exhibitions, a cafe/bar and little shop as well as its an impressive programme of plays.

Nearby to the theatre there are some great restaurants to enjoy a meal after viewing a play – The Glasfryn  and The Parivaar Indian Restaurant are two we would recommend.

Walk along Lady Bagot’s Drive

On a mild autumn day there is nothing nicer than taking in the beauty of the Welsh autumnal colours with a gentle walk. Lady Bagot’s Drive, is a beautiful carriageway footpath that was built by Lord Bagot for his wife when he planted the Clocaenog Forest.

This particular walk is quite magical as the 3-mile pathway hugs every twist and turn of the river and the way the trees arch over the walk. The Drive is now a nature trail which is clearly signposted and full of lots of wonderful rock formations to exlore.

Cabin Café in Ruthin

And a trip to Cafe Cabin in Ruthin is a must. It is one of Ruthin’s grooviest coffee shops, serving local coffee, beautiful homemade cakes, and a wide variety of hot chocolates. Look out for their painted window, which changes with the seasons – it is one of our favourites!

Visit to Llangollen

Our last suggestion would be a visit to Llangollen, just 30 minutes away. In the centre of Llangollen is a beautiful fast flowing river, and there are many cafe restaurants with picturesque views over the river.

There is a lovely canal path walk, where you can see horses pulling barges up and down. Or if you prefer to take a more leisurely autumnal trip, take the Llangollen railway for a ride into the hills and back.

📷 Images courtesy of https://www.instagram.com/walesiswheremyheartis/