Dolanog Circular: Glyndŵr's Way and the River Vyrnwy
Powys
Dolanog is a small village on the River Vyrnwy in the Montgomeryshire hills, close to Dolwar Fach, the farm linked with Ann Griffiths, the 18th century hymn writer after whom the riverside Anne Griffiths Walk is named. This National Trails circular, on the lead for dogs through the farmland, combines that path with a stretch of Glyndŵr's Way for a 9.5km loop. From the free car park it climbs a lane and stone track, follows a green path around the flank of Allt Dolanog, then heads steeply up a meadow with views back over the wooded, rolling valley. Field edges, old tree-lined tracks and a farm lead across the higher ground before the route drops through meadows to the river. The return follows the Vyrnwy for several kilometres past water-carved rock formations, crosses footbridges, and passes through a wood on a rooty riverside path to Plas Dolanog, finishing with 500m on a quiet B road. Expect roughly 200 metres of climbing.
This dog friendly walk is at its best on the riverside return, where there are chances for your dog to drink and cool off in the Vyrnwy's shallows, and some shade in the wood. The first half runs through farmland, with sheep and cattle likely in the fields and gates to pass, so keep your dog on a lead there and on the lanes. The free car park in Dolanog has public toilets, but there is no cafe or pub on the route.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.5 km (5.9 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 3 hr 10 min
- Walk Type
- River, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- Public toilets in Dolanog car park; no cafe or pub on the route.
- Parking
- Free village car park in Dolanog, signed from the B4382.
Dog Friendly Stays Nearby
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All dog friendly stays in PowysFrequently Asked Questions
Is Dolanog Circular: Glyndŵr's Way and the River Vyrnwy dog friendly?
Yes, it scores 7 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The long riverside return along the Vyrnwy is a lovely stretch for dogs, with water close by and quiet paths, and the free car park has toilets. The score reflects the farmland on the first half, where you will need a lead through fields of livestock and on lanes, and the lack of any cafe or pub.
Can dogs be off lead at Dolanog Circular: Glyndŵr's Way and the River Vyrnwy?
Only occasionally. Much of the route crosses working farmland and meadows where sheep and cattle are likely, and there are lanes and a short B road stretch at the end. The riverside path is quieter and your dog can be looser there if no animals are in the fields, but animals can be in the river meadows too, so keep a lead handy throughout.
What should I know before visiting Dolanog Circular: Glyndŵr's Way and the River Vyrnwy with my dog?
Parking is free in Dolanog, with public toilets in the car park, but there are no shops or cafes on the loop, so bring water and snacks. The steep meadow climb near Dolwar Fach is short but tiring, and the riverside path through the wood is rooty with steps. Finish on the B road back into the village, keeping your dog close and visible to traffic.
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