14k Run Chirk: Scenic Route through Waterways and Hills

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 13.5km loop offers a quintessential Welsh running experience, blending technical trail sections with smooth canal paths. Starting from Chirk, runners will face an immediate challenge with a significant climb as they head north away from the river, gaining much of the 224m total ascent early on. The effort is well worth it; once you hit the high point, you’re rewarded with roughly 4km of sustained downhill running that allows you to open up your stride. The terrain is a diverse mix, with about 40% paved surfaces including the flat, atmospheric towpaths of the Llangollen Canal, making it a perfect route for those who enjoy varying their pace and footing.

Rich in industrial heritage and borderland charm, Chirk sits right on the edge of the Ceiriog Valley. As you run, you’ll pass through a landscape dominated by the legacy of Thomas Telford, most notably the towering Chirk Aqueduct which carries the canal alongside the railway viaduct. The area is steeped in history, from the medieval Chirk Castle—a Marcher fortress guarding the gateway to North Wales—to the ancient earthworks of Offa's Dyke that run nearby. Local runners often favor this loop for its mix of deep wooded valleys and the serene, reflective waters of the canal, providing a peaceful escape that feels worlds away from the bustle of the nearby A5.