Miles of Memories: Before I got the bright idea to start blogging, we’d already dragged ourselves (and the children, when they arrived) on some pretty memorable walks around the UK. This series is my way of revisiting those adventures – a chance to share the places we loved, the lessons we learned, and maybe inspire your own family adventures, big or small. Let’s retrace those steps, one memory at a time!
Easter 2022. During the Easter holidays in 2022, we stayed with friends in Llanfair Caereinion, Powys, Wales. It’s such a charming, rural village with plenty to keep the children entertained – like the Model Car Museum and the Llanfair & Welshpool Light Railway (which is a must-do if you’re visiting!). With the weather not being great, we were super thankful for these indoor activities to keep the boys happy.
But one thing I didn’t let the weather stop me from doing was sticking to my running plan (this was pre-knee injury!). I’d planned a simple 5k route using Google Maps before we arrived. It took me through the town and along the A458, where the footpath ends – a straightforward “there and back” route.
Now, this particular morning wasn’t exactly welcoming for a run – it was snowing and sleeting, with a biting wind. The rest of my family sensibly stayed snug and warm indoors, but I bundled up and headed out. My path ran alongside the River Banwy, and just as I reached the turnaround point, I spotted a little gate leading to a bridge.
Curiosity got the better of me on the way back, and I couldn’t resist exploring. Crossing the bridge, I found myself in a woodland wonderland! I wasn’t sure what to expect – muddy tracks? dead ends? – but instead, there was a beautifully landscaped path winding through the woods. It felt like such a hidden gem!
The woodland trail kept me sheltered from the sleet and wind, and running along the river was such a treat. There were lots of little offshoot paths to explore, and it was so much more scenic than sticking to the A-road. I was completely in my element!
Gifted to the townsfolk of Llanfair Caereinion in 1919, Deri Woods is a significant and popular asset to residents and visitors to the town, it has good pedestrian access from the town centre and its own small car park. Overlooking a picturesque section of the River Banwy, the 13-acre wood contains many large and impressive oak and beech trees as well as a number of towering conifers. The wood is criss-crossed by sloping gravel paths (some fairly steep) and rustic steps. There is step-free access from the car park to significant areas of the wood including the most impressive trees and some of the riverside paths.
https://e-voice.org.uk/deriwoodsvolunteers/about-deri-woods/
I’d planned to bring the boys back to explore during our week there, but the weather just wasn’t on our side for the rest of the trip. If we’re ever back in Llanfair Caereinion, though, I’ll definitely take them for a proper adventure there. We love a woodland wander! Plus, it’s so close to the steam railway station, so if you ever find yourself taking a ride on the Llanfair Caereinion – Welshpool steam railway, this could be a great little side trip!
Have you been there? Let me know if you’ve explored these lovely woods – I’d love to hear what else you discovered!
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