Nercwys Forest: A Tranquil Woodland Escape in North East Wales
Discover peaceful woodland trails, abundant wildlife, and stunning views in the scenic Nercwys Forest near Mold, North East Wales.
Nercwys Forest, near Mold in North East Wales, is a serene conifer woodland offering scenic trails, rich wildlife habitats, and panoramic views. Planted in the 1960s, it combines natural beauty with historical remnants, making it ideal for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers seeking peaceful exploration within the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
A brief summary to Nercwys Forest
- Mold, Nercwys, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as some trails can be muddy or hilly, especially after rain.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy active wildlife and quieter paths.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas but carry out all litter to keep the forest pristine.
- Use the all-ability trail if you require adaptive equipment or prefer an easier route.
- Look out for historical features like the lead mine ruins and shepherd’s cottage along the trails.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Parking
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Mold to Nercwys Forest takes about 10-15 minutes via the A5119 and B5430. Free parking is available near the forest entrance, but overnight parking is prohibited.
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Public Transport
Frequent buses run from Mold bus station to Nercwys village. From the village, it is a 15-minute walk on footpaths to the forest entrance. Check local bus timetables for service times and return trips.
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Walking
For those in Mold, a scenic 1.5-hour walk (approximately 4 miles) along quiet country roads and footpaths leads to Nercwys Forest. Suitable footwear and water are recommended.
Nercwys Forest location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Nercwys Forest
Origins and Landscape of Nercwys Forest
Nercwys Forest sits on the eastern edge of the Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) near the village of Nercwys, Mold. Established in the mid-1960s as part of a national initiative to increase timber self-sufficiency, the forest was planted with a mix of Lodge Pole Pine, Sitka spruce, noble fir, and larch. This relatively small woodland has since evolved into a vibrant habitat supporting diverse flora and fauna, framed by rolling farmland and the nearby River Terrig valley.Ecological Richness and Wildlife Highlights
The forest is a haven for wildlife, with efforts made to enhance biodiversity by creating varied habitats. Open grassy clearings attract ground-nesting birds and butterflies, while the conifer seeds provide vital winter food for birds like siskins, coal tits, and crossbills. Notably, the elusive nightjar breeds in the forest’s open edges, filling dusk with its distinctive churring song. Visitors may also glimpse buzzards, goldcrests, and even otters in the surrounding river valleys.Trails and Outdoor Activities
Nercwys Forest features a network of well-maintained trails suitable for walking, running, cycling, and horse riding. The main circular walk culminates at a cairn viewpoint offering sweeping panoramas over the Cheshire Plain and the Dee Estuary, including views of the Jubilee Tower atop Moel Famau. An all-ability trail ensures accessibility for adaptive equipment users, while numerous smaller paths invite exploration and discovery amid tranquil woodland.Heritage and Cultural Touchstones
Scattered throughout the forest are remnants of the area’s rich history, including ruins of a 19th-century lead mine and a shepherd’s cottage with a wildflower meadow. Information panels along the trails share stories of the people who once lived and worked here, enriching the visitor experience with a sense of place and time.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Nercwys Forest offers a peaceful retreat from urban life, favored by dog walkers, runners, and families. Its quiet atmosphere encourages relaxation and connection with nature. The forest’s natural beauty changes with the seasons, from vibrant wildflowers in summer to serene snow-dusted paths in winter. Free parking and open access from dawn till dusk make it an inviting destination year-round.Conservation and Management
Managed by Natural Resources Wales in partnership with the Clwydian Range AONB, the forest balances timber production with wildlife conservation. Ongoing habitat management ensures the forest remains a vital ecological and recreational resource, emphasizing sustainability and visitor safety through clear signage and trail maintenance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tom Pryce Memorial
9.6 km
A poignant tribute in Ruthin to Tom Pryce, Wales’ only Formula 1 Grand Prix winner and a motorsport legend remembered for his talent and tragic fate.
Cae-Llywd Bunker
11.0 km
Explore the Cold War era at Cae-Llywd Bunker, a hidden historical landmark nestled in the scenic landscapes of Llangollen, Wales.
Dyfed Drive
13.3 km
Discover Deeside with ease from Dyfed Drive, your essential bus stop connecting you to local attractions and scenic landscapes.
Llangollen Bridge
16.5 km
A medieval stone bridge spanning the River Dee, blending centuries of history with stunning river valley views in the heart of Llangollen.
Derwen Churchyard Cross
16.8 km
Explore the intricately carved 15th-century Derwen Churchyard Cross, a rare medieval Welsh monument set in a serene circular churchyard near Corwen.
The Dinorben Arms
17.0 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at The Dinorben Arms, a charming pub in Bodfari, offering delicious local cuisine and a warm atmosphere.
Naid Y March
17.4 km
Discover the ancient mystery of Naid Y March, the Bronze Age standing stones steeped in legend and Welsh heritage near Holywell.
Basingwerk Abbey
18.9 km
Explore Basingwerk Abbey, a stunning historical landmark in Greenfield, revealing the rich tapestry of Wales' medieval heritage amid breathtaking scenery.
Eaton Hall
19.6 km
Explore the historical elegance of Eaton Hall, a stunning museum in Chester, surrounded by enchanting gardens and rich heritage.
The Water Tower
19.7 km
Explore the Water Tower in Chester, a historic gem offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's architectural heritage.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
19.7 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Stanley Palace
19.8 km
Experience the historic charm of Stanley Palace, an iconic events venue in Chester offering a perfect blend of heritage and modern functionality.
Chester Castle: Agricola Tower and Castle Walls
19.8 km
Explore the historical grandeur of Chester Castle, featuring the iconic Agricola Tower and majestic castle walls, a perfect destination for history lovers.
Overleigh Water Tower
19.8 km
Discover the Overleigh Water Tower, a stunning historical landmark in Chester, offering a blend of rich heritage and scenic beauty for all visitors.
Statue of Queen Victoria
19.8 km
Explore the Statue of Queen Victoria in Chester, a stunning tribute to British history amidst charming streets and vibrant culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Sun Inn
1.7 km
Traditional Welsh village pub in Eryrys offering award-winning ales, hearty home-cooked food, and a warm community atmosphere.
Loggerheads Country Park
4.6 km
Explore dramatic cliffs, lush woodlands, and rich heritage at Loggerheads Country Park, the scenic gateway to the Clwydian Range.
Reindeer Lodge
4.8 km
Experience the magic of Christmas with reindeer, festive lights, and enchanting family activities at Reindeer Lodge in scenic Leeswood.
The Woodworks Garden Centre & Café
4.9 km
A family-run garden centre and award-winning café near Mold, North Wales, where plants, gifts, and hearty British food come together in a relaxed, timber-clad setting.
Clwyd Gate Manor
5.5 km
A stunning 11-bedroom manor with pool, sauna, and panoramic countryside views, perfect for large groups and luxury escapes in North Wales.
Hungry Cow
5.6 km
Savor fresh, flavorful burgers in a lively, welcoming setting at Mold’s favorite casual dining spot on High Street.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
5.8 km
A welcoming community club in Mold offering casual fun, pool, and affordable drinks in a lively, friendly atmosphere.
Mold Castle
5.8 km
Explore the historic Norman earthworks of Mold Castle, a serene memorial garden blending medieval heritage with community spirit in Flintshire.
Hope Mountain
6.6 km
Explore Hope Mountain’s scenic trails, panoramic views, and rich wildlife just outside Wrexham in North Wales.
Hartsheath
6.9 km
Explore Hartsheath, a historic Grade II* country house near Mold, Wales, with exquisite art, trompe l’oeil interiors, and tranquil 19th-century gardens.
Clwydian Range & Dee Valley National Landscape
6.9 km
Rolling hills, ancient hillforts and the winding River Dee in northeast Wales’ protected landscape of wild beauty and quiet charm.
Theatr Clwyd
6.9 km
Discover Theatr Clwyd, Mold’s vibrant performing arts theatre blending Welsh culture, dynamic performances, and scenic beauty in North Wales.
Jubilee Tower
7.0 km
Historic Egyptian-style Jubilee Tower ruins atop Moel Famau offer breathtaking views and a deep connection to Welsh heritage.
Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB
7.6 km
Explore the historic and scenic Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB, where ancient borders and natural beauty meet along the iconic Offa's Dyke Path.
St Mary's Church
7.8 km
Discover the medieval charm and historic roof artistry of St Mary's Church, a spiritual and architectural gem in the heart of Cilcain village.
Essential places to dine
Druid Inn
3.6 km
A cozy country pub and guesthouse in Llanferres offering hearty Welsh fare, local ales, and warm hospitality amid stunning rural landscapes.
Belvedere
5.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm ambiance await you at Belvedere, Mold’s cherished Italian restaurant on Wrexham Street.
Primo Amore Italian Restaurant Mold
5.4 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors and lively ambiance await at Primo Amore, Mold’s beloved Italian dining destination.
The Fat Boar Mold
5.6 km
A stylish gastro pub in Mold blending hearty British fare with a lively atmosphere and friendly service in a cozy, contemporary setting.
Y Delyn
5.6 km
Experience the charm of Y Delyn, Mold's premier wine bar offering an exquisite selection of wines and delightful small plates in a cozy atmosphere.
Just Steak
5.7 km
Savor expertly grilled steaks and vibrant flavors in the heart of Mold’s bustling High Street at Just Steak.
Three Pigeons Inn
8.3 km
Historic Welsh inn offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and scenic views in the charming village of Graig-fechan.
The Millstone
8.8 km
A family-owned gem in Penyffordd serving modern British dishes crafted from the freshest local produce in a warm, historic setting.
Small Plates Ruthin
9.5 km
Discover Small Plates Ruthin, where intimate sharing plates meet warm ambiance in the heart of historic North Wales.
The Celtic Arms
9.6 km
A welcoming countryside restaurant and bar offering freshly cooked British cuisine, extensive drinks, and a charming setting at Northop Country Park.
The Farmers Arms
9.9 km
A charming Welsh pub and restaurant in Ruthin offering traditional cuisine, local ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
OK Diner
9.9 km
Classic American diner fare with a 1950s vibe, serving hearty breakfasts, burgers, and shakes daily in Northop Hall, Mold.
The White Horse Restaurant
10.8 km
Cozy countryside dining in Hendrerwydd offering hearty British classics and renowned Sunday lunches in a warm, welcoming setting.
Ponderosa Cafe
10.9 km
Classic British cafe with hearty fare and breathtaking views at the Horseshoe Pass, a beloved stop for travelers and bikers alike.
The Drovers Rhewl
11.0 km
A warm and welcoming country pub near Ruthin serving delicious traditional fare and real ales in a cozy village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Retro Styler Ltd
5.1 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and nostalgic fashion at Retro Styler Ltd in Mold’s Bromfield Industrial Estate.
The De-Part-Mental Store
5.1 km
Treasure hunting meets sustainability in Mold's premier secondhand and upcycled goods destination.
Jennings Antiques
5.2 km
British antique and vintage furniture specialists with export expertise and period pieces from Victorian to retro eras.
Simmi
5.5 km
A cozy boutique in Mold offering stylish ladies' clothing, jewellery, and gifts with friendly service and on-trend brands.
Siop Y Siswrn
5.5 km
Independent Welsh bookshop and art gallery celebrating language, literature, and local creativity in historic Mold.
Direct Outdoors
5.5 km
Your friendly local shop for quality outdoor clothing and equipment, located inside Mold’s Indoor Market.
Jane Davies
5.5 km
Independent designer boutique in Mold offering curated fashion with personal service and timeless style.
Daniel Owen Shopping Centre
5.5 km
A vibrant indoor market and shopping hub in Mold blending local culture, diverse retail, and community spirit under one roof.
Peacocks
5.5 km
Affordable, trendy fashion for the whole family in the heart of Mold’s Daniel Owen Shopping Centre.
Staggered boutique interiors
5.5 km
Explore Staggered Boutique Interiors in Mold, where style meets comfort in exquisite bedding and decor, perfect for enhancing your home.
Florence & company
5.6 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Florence & Company, a charming clothing boutique in the heart of Mold, perfect for local styles and personalized service.
Yarn O'clock
5.6 km
Discover quality yarns and warm community spirit at Mold’s cozy wool shop, Yarn O'clock.
Rock Bottom
5.6 km
Independent women's fashion boutique offering quality styles at accessible prices in Mold town centre.
Create Nostalgia Home of Mary Jane Collection
5.7 km
Discover timeless needlecraft treasures and the exclusive Mary Jane Collection in the heart of Mold, North Wales’ oldest craft shop.
The Craft Shack
5.7 km
Independent craft shop celebrating local artisans and creative inspiration in Mold's heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Raven Inn
3.8 km
A welcoming village pub and cozy inn in Llanarmon-yn-Ial offering hearty food, local ales, and comfortable rooms amid scenic Welsh countryside.
The Ruthin Castle
5.3 km
A welcoming pub in Mold’s vibrant center, blending local history with lively community spirit and traditional charm.
Y Pentan
5.5 km
Experience the heart of Mold’s social life at Y Pentan, a traditional pub known for friendly vibes and classic British fare.
Mold Alehouse
5.6 km
Discover Mold Alehouse, a cozy micropub in Mold offering ever-changing cask ales and craft beers in a welcoming, conversation-friendly space.
The Griffin, High Street, Mold
5.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Mold’s High Street, offering classic fare, lively events, and a true community spirit.
Pen Y Bont Farm
5.7 km
Historic riverside pub in Mold blending 17th-century charm with modern comfort, family-friendly dining, and scenic outdoor spaces.
Queens Head Inn
5.8 km
Classic Welsh pub charm with hearty food, diverse drinks, and lively entertainment in the heart of Mold.
The Bridge Inn
6.0 km
A welcoming traditional Welsh country pub in Pontblyddyn serving hearty meals and local ales in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
The Drovers Arms - Mold - Als Smokehouse
6.1 km
A lively smokehouse pub in Mold offering hearty barbecue dishes, live entertainment, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Griffin Inn
6.4 km
A traditional, family-friendly pub in Mynydd Isa serving classic British fare and a wide selection of drinks in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Glasfryn
6.8 km
Charming Mold pub with seasonal menus, local ales, cozy fires, and a scenic garden terrace for a welcoming dining experience.
Blue Anchor
7.5 km
A friendly and cosy pub in Buckley with great ales, a lively beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all seasons.
The Cross Keys
8.1 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture with hearty meals, local ales, and a warm community atmosphere at The Cross Keys in Sychdyn.
The White Horse
9.1 km
A friendly, quirky village pub in Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd serving hearty food and great pints in a cozy Welsh countryside setting.
The Wine Vaults
9.5 km
A welcoming free house in Ruthin offering quality ales, cozy rooms, games, and outdoor seating in a historic market town setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dj Tony B Disco Karaoke & video Roadshow
5.8 km
Dive into a night of music and fun at Dj Tony B Disco Karaoke & Video Roadshow, where every guest gets to shine on stage!
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
13.9 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
The Magnet Club
14.0 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
Flint Royal British Legion Social Club
14.3 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
Chester City Club
19.9 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
Rosies - Chester
20.1 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
20.2 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
Cruise
20.3 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
The Live Rooms
20.9 km
Discover Chester's vibrant nightlife at The Live Rooms, where live music, comedy, and unforgettable experiences await.
Mandy & Graham’s
22.2 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Live Lounge
28.3 km
Experience lively evenings with live music and entertainment at Presthaven’s vibrant Live Lounge, set within a family-friendly coastal resort.
Pendyffryn Club
29.2 km
A cosy and tranquil social club in Prestatyn offering a friendly atmosphere to enjoy a pint and good company without distractions.
Central Beach Club
29.4 km
Discover Central Beach Club in Prestatyn, where local charm meets coastal views, offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Esplanade Social Club
30.6 km
A lively coastal social club in Rhyl offering themed nights, local ales, and a welcoming community atmosphere near the beach.
The Tiki Room
31.1 km
Rhyl’s vibrant tropical-themed nightclub with dual music floors offering modern beats and 80s classics for lively weekend nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly