Battle of Crogen Circular Walk

This short but rewarding circular walk on the edge of Wrexham packs a surprising amount into just over two miles. Setting off through the wooded slopes around the Chirk Castle estate, the path winds down towards the River Ceiriog, whose valley forms the natural border between Wales and England. The gentle rush of water and the deep, sheltered feel of the valley make this a peaceful stretch, even on busier weekends.

From the river, the route climbs steadily, gaining most of its 174 m of ascent in one sustained pull. You pass through Mars' Wood before emerging onto more open ground with views back across the Ceiriog valley and towards the towers of Chirk Castle. Nearby features such as Gwyningar Wood, Pleasure Ground Wood and the old Limeworks hint at the layered history of this landscape, from medieval frontier skirmishes to later industry.

At around an hour of walking, it is a compact loop that suits an afternoon out from Chirk, with enough variety underfoot to feel like a proper hill walk rather than a stroll.