4.5
(123)
1,012
hikers
58
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around New Radnor navigate a diverse landscape characterized by open moorlands, steep valleys, and dense woodlands. The region features an isolated dome of hills known as Radnor Forest, offering broad, heathery plateaus and deep cwm valleys. This area provides a captivating mix of geological and topological features, including significant summits and ridges. The trails offer varied experiences, from woodland walks to ascents with panoramic viewpoints.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
3.5
(4)
13
hikers
21.6km
06:22
620m
620m
This difficult 13.4-mile hiking route from Water-break-its-neck offers stunning views and a challenging climb through Radnor Forest.
4.2
(6)
48
hikers
5.22km
01:34
160m
160m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
10
hikers
17.8km
05:21
590m
590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
it's on the water breaks it neck byway
0
0
The Whimble has a striking conical shape. The summit is 599m and on a clear day offers great voews with the hill dropping away steeply on all sides. To the southeast, Hergest Ridge and the Black Mountains visible to the south. To the west and north the higher, flat-topped summits of the Radnor Range. To the northeast, Bache Hill.
3
0
The fine rainbow mist surrounding the unusually named Water-break-its-neck waterfall creates a humid micro-climate in this lush green gorge. There's a high and low path so you can enjoy both viewpoints.
3
0
Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos is a mountain summit in the Radnor Forest (Mid Wales), a rather isolated dome of hills to the north of the village of New Radnor. The local rocks are sedimentary shales and mudstones with some Silurian limestone. With a height of 660 metres (2,170 ft), it is the highest point in the Radnor Forest and the historic county top of Radnorshire. The summit is located on a broad heathery plateau, which is separated from Black Mixen: the eastern plateau summit, by the cwm of Harvey Dingle. To the west is Drygarn Fawr and Gorllwyn, to the northwest Plynlimon, to the north Beacon Hill and the Clun Forest (Shropshire), and to the south the Black Mountains. There is a prominent trig point at the summit, and a very useful landmark for walkers on the broad and featureless summit plateau.
3
0
Black Mixen is a subsidiary summit of Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos in the Radnor Forest. The summit is large peat bog plateau. The summit is marked with a cairn, and is next to a radio transmitter and its building. Black Mixen is the only UK registered Nuttall to have a communications mast on its summit.
3
0
Bache Hill is a subsidiary summit of Rhos Fawr or Great Rhos, in the Radnor Forest in Wales. It is located to the east of Black Mixen. The summit is marked by a trig point built on an ancient burial mound, probably of Bronze Age date, like most of the summit cairns and round barrows in Wales. It is a UK registered Nuttall.
3
0
There are over 20 easy-rated, family-friendly hiking trails around New Radnor, offering a variety of experiences suitable for all ages. In total, the area boasts 58 hiking routes, with many being accessible for families.
Yes, New Radnor offers several easy circular walks perfect for families. A great option is the Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall loop from New Radnor, which is just under 3 km and features the beautiful waterfall. Another slightly longer but still easy circular route is the Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall – Water-break-its-neck loop from New Radnor, which is around 5.5 km.
Many family-friendly trails lead to or pass by stunning natural features. The most famous is the Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall, a picturesque cascade in Warren Wood, known for its rainbow mist and lush gorge. You can also find expansive views from various points, such as The Whimble or Bache Hill Summit, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and hills.
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can find remnants of ancient structures, such as historical burial cairns on Bache Hill. The wider region also features sections of Remains of Offa’s Dyke, an ancient earthwork, and charming old churches like St Mary's Church, Gladestry.
Spring, summer, and early autumn are generally the best times for family hikes in New Radnor. The weather is milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. During winter, some higher trails might be challenging due to colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy conditions, but lower woodland walks can still be enjoyable.
The tranquil and remote nature of Radnor Forest makes it a haven for wildlife. On family walks, you might be lucky enough to spot muntjac deer, buzzards, and the majestic red kites soaring overhead. The area's diverse habitats also support various bird species and smaller mammals.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the stunning views from the hilltops, and the well-maintained paths, making it a delightful experience for families seeking outdoor adventures.
For toddlers and very young children, focus on the shorter, flatter sections of trails, especially those within Warren Wood near the Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall. The immediate area around the waterfall offers easy, short paths that are manageable for little legs, allowing them to enjoy nature without extensive walking.
Yes, many popular trailheads, especially those leading to attractions like Water-Break-Its-Neck Waterfall, have designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for parking information before you head out, but generally, access is convenient for families arriving by car.
While specific establishments vary, New Radnor and the surrounding villages offer a selection of pubs and cafes that welcome families. These can be a great spot to refuel with a meal or a warm drink after a hike. It's advisable to check opening times and facilities beforehand, especially if you're visiting during off-peak seasons.
The family-friendly trails typically feature well-trodden paths through woodlands, along gentle valleys, and across open moorlands. While some routes might have slight inclines, they are generally designed to be manageable for families. Expect a mix of gravel paths, grassy tracks, and some potentially muddy sections, especially after rain.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.