Walks on Moel Famau

Start at Bwlch Penbarras car park and follow the well-worn stone-pitched path heading north-east directly towards the summit. The route is clear and well-waymarked throughout, climbing steadily through open heather moorland with ever-expanding views behind you as you ascend.

At the top, the ruined Jubilee Tower awaits, along with orientation plaques identifying landmarks visible on a clear day: Snowdonia to the west, the Great Orme to the north-west, the Wirral and Liverpool Bay to the north, and the Shropshire Hills to the south-east.

Return the same way, or descend via a parallel path slightly to the north for variety. The stone-pitched main path makes this accessible even in wet conditions, though boots are always recommended.

This route begins at Coed Moel Famau car park on the eastern flank of the mountain — a quieter, less-crowded alternative to Bwlch Penbarras. From the car park, follow the main forest track uphill through the managed conifer and mixed woodland. The sheltered paths, dappled light and birdsong make for a very different experience from the exposed moorland routes on the western side.

As the track climbs, the trees give way to open heather moorland and the summit comes into view. Follow the path west and upward to join the main route for the final approach to the Jubilee Tower at 554m. The last section crosses classic upland moorland with panoramic views opening up on all sides.

The circuit returns through the forest on a different path, making a satisfying and varied loop. Particularly beautiful in morning light, when the sun angles through the trees. In poor or windy weather, the forest offers real shelter from the wind.

This demanding circuit begins from the Coed Moel Famau area on the eastern side of the mountain and makes a full loop, visiting the Jubilee Tower summit at 554m along the way. It is the most rewarding route on the site, combining forest tracks, open moorland, and the full panoramic pay-off at the top.

The route climbs steadily through mixed woodland before breaking out onto the open ridge. From the summit, views extend to Snowdonia in the west, the Dee Estuary to the north, and the Cheshire Plain to the east. The descent follows a different line back through the forest, completing a satisfying and varied circuit.

Good navigation skills and a full set of waterproofs are essential. The route crosses exposed moorland where the weather can change rapidly, and some sections are less well-marked than the main summit paths. OS Explorer 265 is strongly recommended.