Offa's Dyke Part 16: Pool Quay to Hope
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This is the sixteenth in a series of day walks along the Offa's Dyke Path - the idea was to reach the English border in stages, but now we shall be invading England. Light the beacons!
Starting outside Welshpool Train Station we shortly drop down onto the Montgomery Canal and follow it North East through and out of town, then begin the steady climb up Gungrog Fawr with lovely views out West into North Wales and the Berwyns.
Coming down the North and West edges of Gungrog Fawr we cross back onto the canal, picking up the Offa's Dyke Path at Pool Quay, following it back towards Welshpool before hopping over the A483, crossing the farming fields and then the Afon Hafren/River Severn.
Skirting the outside of Buttington we follow the Path as it starts to climb again towards the old fort at Beacon Ring, but divert away (saving it for next time!) and making our way back to Welshpool through the farms of Hope.
This walk is roughly 16 km/10 miles, on canal towpath, footpaths and muddy fields, with the main ascent of 160m up Gungrog Fawr and lots of stiles.
Well-behaved OutdoorDogs are very welcome but please ensure they are adequately prepared for all conditions just as much as you are. Note: Leads will be required in areas with livestock, and we will be crossing stiles frequently.
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Photos provided by event leader with permission for use on other ODL events.
What to bring
Hand sanitiser and a face covering: whilst we are living with Covid-19, please bring your own to events to help keep everyone safe
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
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 in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
You'll need to bring a packed lunch with you, along with enough water to keep you hydrated during the walk (recommended 1-2 litres).