Caernarfon Coastal New Year's Walk
20 people attending
0 places left
2 people waitlisted
This 6 mile circular walk starts off in the shadow of Caernarfon Castle from the quay where thousands of tons of slate were exported during the 19th century. We will cross the river on the swing bridge and go to a viewpoint over the town, where the mountains of Eryri form an impressive backdrop. We'll then take the Wales coast path (a minor road at this point) which has lovely views of the Menai Straits for a couple of miles. After that we will head inland crossing a small hill with further views, and through some farms to pick up the course of the Welsh Highland steam railway where the trains which are pulled by very unique locomotives which articulate in the middle and have two sets of driving wheels to cope with the bends and gradients through the Snowdon Mountain Range. A footpath follows this back into the town. Caernarfon is a walled town with nearby Roman origins, however the castle and walls were built in the 13C by the English King Edward 1st, after the ruler of Gwynedd refused to pay homage to the English. It is now a designated World Heritage Site and the imposing castle is one of the largest in Wales. Dolphins are often seen just offshore. The little streets within the town walls are picturesque and fascinating to explore. A short tour around town will round of the event.
Meal Out After the walk there's an option to have a meal together at the Historic Black Boy inn There's a good range of food and drink and no need to book.
Please note the event end time will depend on factors on the day doesn't include the meal / social element.
Bad Weather This event may be altered or cancelled if persistent heavy rain is forecast - you will be notified at least 24 hours beforehand in this case
Dogs are welcome to join us on this event but your dog needs to be well behaved and it must not affect other member's enjoyment of the event. Your dog needs to have the stamina to keep up with the group.
Are you new to OutdoorLads and considering your first event? This is a good event for first timers.
Have a look at this link for some useful information: https://www.outdoorlads.com/my-first-event
Photos: AndyM, event leader
Waitlisted? Usually there's a turnover of spaces leading up to day walk events, and if there isn't, we will try to increase the number of spaces to take you.
What to bring
Water: As it is winter just a small bottle will suffice on this shorter walk.
Medicines: if you have diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Footwear: Waterproof trail boots are suggested, although mostly on tarmac, the footpath sections could be muddy and if there's a very high tide, some flooding on the tarmac.
Clothing: This walk takes place along exposed coastline and if its raining or windy you'll need good protection.
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: jeans are not recommended as they become heavy and cold should it rain. Overtrousers or breathable and waterproof fabrics are recommended
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of.
Food & drink
Bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and a flask of hot drink may be appreciated,
At the end of the walk there's an optional sit down meal. Further details will be sent out a few days beforehand.