Attractions and Places To See around St. Asaph - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around St. Asaph include a blend of historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. Located in the Vale of Clwyd in Denbighshire, North Wales, St. Asaph is known for its rich heritage and picturesque surroundings. The city is home to Britain's second-smallest city title and offers access to river walks and countryside views.
Best attractions and places to see around St. Asaph
- The most popular attractions is Dyserth Waterfall, a viewpoint that features a 70-foot waterfall formed by the River Ffyddion. It is located in Dyserth, North Wales, and offers a natural scenic spot.
- Another must-see spot is Rhyl Harbour and Pont y Ddraig, a bridge and cycleway. This lifting bridge spans the River Clwyd, connecting Rhyl’s West Parade to Kinmel Bay, and is used by pedestrians and cyclists.
- Visitors also love Rhuddlan Castle, a historical site. This 13th-century concentric castle, built by Edward I, features a diamond-shaped stronghold and is located several miles inland on the River Clwyd.
- St. Asaph is known for its historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore ancient cathedrals, riverside walks, and nearby castles.
- The attractions around St. Asaph are appreciated by the komoot community, with 2 highlights featuring 48 photos and receiving 96 upvotes.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Dyserth Waterfall
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Rhyl Harbour and Pont y Ddraig
Highlight • Bridge
The new lifting bridge over Rhyl Harbour in North Wales, serves as an additional crossing for pedestrians and cyclists. Spanning the River Clwyd from Rhyl’s West Parade to a newly created public area on the Kinmel Bay side of the river, the elegantly opening lightweight bridge named “Pont y Ddraig” has already become an iconic landmark attracting visitors. Hundreds watched the two lightweight composite decks – or dragon wings – being lifted into place in early Summer.
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Rhuddlan Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
At Rhuddlan, several miles inland, the plan was to use a river instead. Just one problem – the meandering Clwyd wasn’t quite in the right place. So Edward conscripted hundreds of ditch-diggers to deepen and divert its course.
More than seven centuries later Rhuddlan still looks like a castle that was worth moving a river for. Begun in 1277 it was the first of the revolutionary concentric, or ‘walls within walls’, castles designed by master architect James of St George.
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Kinmel Bay Beach
Highlight • Viewpoint
Nature lovers should keep a look out for the occasional grey seal which might be spotted bobbing up and down in the water offshore, and the beach is also a good spot for skylarks, kestrel and a variety of wading birds.
Alongside the beach is a narrow promenade which passes the Kinmel Dunes Nature Reserve, which provides a habitat for a number of maritime plants including sea holly, rest harrow and bird’s foot trefoil.
The beach benefits from a large car park with toilets and in summer there is a beach kiosk open along the promenade. An Asda supermarket can be found very close to the beach.
In the nature reserve dogs must be kept on leads and the beach itself has dog walking restrictions from May to September. A great cycle route with amazing views.
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Denbigh Castle and Town Walls
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tips from the Community
A lovely market town with pubs and shops and bakeries. Hilly routes into town but a number of good places for a stop mid ride.
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A nice little stop with the pooch and I both getting an ice-cream, plenty of seating outside in a big garden right next to the waterfall
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Fantastic views of the Harbour and the blue bridge. There is a bike shop next to the public toilets and coffee shop. The bike shop also have available bikes for hire
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Visit 'The Red Cafe' opposite. Wonderful food and hot coffee. Great ambience too
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The castle passed between various owners in the first half of the 14th century, before coming under the control of the Mortimer family. Meanwhile, the walled town had proved impractical to live in, and a newer, much larger, settlement developed outside the defences. In 1400, the walled town was raided during the Glyndŵr Rising, although the castle itself remained secure throughout the rebellion. During the Wars of the Roses, Denbigh was attacked by Lancastrian forces; the walled town was attacked and burnt. In the aftermath, the old town was largely abandoned by its inhabitants, the walled area becoming an extension of the castle's defences.
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Denbigh Castle and town walls (/ˈdɛnbi/ DEN-bee; Welsh: Castell Dinbych a waliau tref [ˌkastɛɬ ˈdɪnbɨχ]) were built to control the lordship of Denbigh after the Conquest of Wales by Edward I of England in 1282. The lands were granted to Henry de Lacy, Earl of Lincoln, who began to build a new walled town, colonised by immigrants from England, protected by a substantial castle and surrounded by deer parks for hunting. The work had not been completed by 1294, when the Welsh temporarily seized the castle during the Madog ap Llywelyn revolt. The defences continued to be improved, although the castle was not completely finished by the time of Henry's death in 1311.
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There is a small charge to go through the hole waterfall, but you can take photos of the one that is open to the public
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The new lifting bridge over Rhyl Harbour in North Wales, serves as an additional crossing for pedestrians and cyclists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit in St. Asaph?
St. Asaph is rich in history. You can visit the St Asaph Cathedral, Britain's smallest ancient cathedral, which houses the first full translation of the Bible into Welsh. The Parish Church of St Kentigern and St Asaph, dating back to the 13th century, is also a significant historical site. Additionally, the H.M. Stanley Obelisk commemorates the explorer Henry Morton Stanley.
What natural attractions are there to explore around St. Asaph?
The area around St. Asaph offers several natural attractions. The Dyserth Waterfall is a prominent viewpoint featuring a 70-foot waterfall. You can also enjoy tranquil riverside walks along the River Elwy, explore the open green space of St Asaph Common, or visit the Glascoed Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife including great crested newts. The Vale of Clwyd itself provides serene countryside views.
Are there family-friendly attractions around St. Asaph?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Dyserth Waterfall is considered family-friendly, as is Rhyl Harbour and Pont y Ddraig, where you can walk or cycle. Rhuddlan Castle and Kinmel Bay Beach are also great options for a family outing.
What castles are located near St. Asaph?
There are several historic castles within a short distance of St. Asaph. Rhuddlan Castle, a 13th-century concentric castle built by Edward I, is only about 10 minutes away. Further afield, Denbigh Castle and Town Walls, a ruined castle with impressive old town walls, is about 15 minutes from St. Asaph.
What hiking opportunities are available near St. Asaph?
St. Asaph serves as a great base for hiking. You can find various routes, including moderate trails like the Maes Hiraddug Nature Reserve loop or the Cefn Du loop. For more options, explore the full range of routes in the Hiking around St. Asaph guide.
Are there easy walking routes around St. Asaph?
Yes, there are several easy walking routes suitable for a relaxed stroll. Options include the Mynydd y Cwm Memorial loop from Dyserth, or the Mini XC Trail – Dyserth Waterfall loop. For more details on accessible and less strenuous paths, check out the Easy hikes around St. Asaph guide.
Can I go running near St. Asaph's attractions?
Absolutely. There are several running trails available, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. You could try the Rhuddlan Nature Reserve loop from St Asaph, or a shorter running loop directly from the city. Discover more routes in the Running Trails around St. Asaph guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near St. Asaph?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. For instance, the Dyserth Waterfall is noted as a nice rest stop with a scenic climb. Rhyl Harbour and Pont y Ddraig are loved for walks and cycling, with the bridge being an iconic landmark. Rhuddlan Castle is admired as an awesome feat of engineering that still towers above the River Clwyd.
Are there opportunities for riverside walks in St. Asaph?
Yes, the River Elwy flows through St. Asaph, offering tranquil settings for walks. Waymarked trails, including sections of the Elwy Valley Walk, follow the riverbanks, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife such as herons and kingfishers.
What other notable attractions are a short drive from St. Asaph?
Beyond the immediate city, you can explore the striking Marble Church (St Margaret's) in Bodelwyddan, famous for its white limestone spire. Loggerheads Country Park, with its limestone gorges and woodland trails, is also a short drive away, offering more outdoor exploration.
Where can I find nature reserves near St. Asaph?
The Glascoed Nature Reserve, located west of St. Asaph, is a significant natural area featuring ponds, grasslands, and woodland. It's known for its diverse wildlife, including various birds, mammals, and amphibians like the great crested newt. A viewing hide is available for wildlife enthusiasts.
Most popular attractions around St. Asaph
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