The North Wales Path (or Llwybr y Gogledd in Welsh) is a relatively short, long-distance path and does not appear to be as well-known or well-trodden as other nearby routes such as Offa’s Dyke Path and the Wales Coast Path. It had been on my to-do list for some time having passed its distinctive trail makers many times over the years. When I noticed that it was not even listed on this website, I decided to complete the path and record it as a first unsupported FKT.
I researched the route thoroughly beforehand and followed what I believe to be the correct line. The path is not particularly well sign posted and I made a few minor navigational errors, none of which shortened the route. I recorded a distance of 65.5 miles and the errors amount to a total of approximately 1.2 miles. So, I believe the total distance is about 64.3 miles. It is certainly longer than the often-quoted figure of 60 miles!
I set off from the Nova Prestatyn leisure centre at 0858 on Saturday 1 Feb 2025 and carried all my equipment, food and water for the entire duration from start to finish. I completed the route alone with no support whatsoever. I resupplied with water from a stream near Mynydd Marian Local Nature Reserve, a public fountain on the promenade near Colwyn Bay and from Afon Gyrach in the hills above Penmaenmawr. There were options to access water from public toilets, but these were not used in the end. Some were closed due to vandalism and others had automated hand washing facilities which were impractical for water refills. I would not rely on them for future unsupported efforts.
I made good progress during the morning and early afternoon and alternated between a fast walk and an easy jog. The total weight carried was about 5-6 kg (11-13 lbs). The weather was perfect: cool, dry, clear and calm. The sun set as I passed the Northern end of the Great Orme, so approximately half of the route was completed in darkness. By the time I reached Conwy castle my average speed had just dropped below 4mph (6.4kph) but I knew this would likely drop further as I approached the mountain section. Despite having to stop at intervals to deal with hotspots on both feet I did my best to maintain my average speed. I arrived at Porth Penrhyn, near Bangor at 0343 on 2 Feb 2025. The total elapsed time was 18 hours 45 minutes and 2 seconds.
I hope to see others set faster times for the North Wales Path - in all three styles. However, as it is such a scenic route, I would recommend doing so during the summer months to get the most out of the stunning views and to see the spectacular Aber Falls in daylight!