SJ0880 : Gop Cave above Trelawnyd

Gop Hill

251m Elevation
60m Prominence
Wales Country
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SJ0880 : Gop Cave above Trelawnyd

Colin Park Photo source

Overview

Gop Hill: A Hidden Gem in the Clwydian Range

Nestled in the charming Clwydian Range of North Wales, Gop Hill offers outdoor enthusiasts a delightful day out. Standing tall at 226 meters, this Marilyn provides stunning panoramic views that really take the biscuit.

Geology

Gop Hill is a limestone marvel, featuring intriguing karst formations that entice geologists and nature lovers alike. If you fancy trying to impress someone with your knowledge of rocks, this is the place to do it!

Access and Parking

At the foot of the hill lies the quaint village of Gwaenysgor, where you’ll find a small parking area accommodating around 10 cars. Just remember, parking here means keeping your volume down so the locals don’t hear you discuss the latest series you binge-watched!

If public transport is your style, hop a bus to Rhyl and grab a ride to Gwaenysgor – it’s a short taxi jaunt away. Nearby Prestatyn offers amenities, should the need for a crumpet arise.

Routes

Gop Hill Circular Route

One of the most favoured trails begins at Gwaenysgor, winding its way up the hill through lush woodlands and open fields over a distance of 6.5 km. Allow yourself around 2.5 hours to complete this moderately challenging loop. But don’t fret if your pace is more tortoise than hare; the views are well worth it!

Summit Features

Once at the summit, you’ll find the iconic trig point standing guard, along with the Gop Cairn—an ancient burial chamber that’s definitely worth a selfie. Just remember, it’s hard to convey to your friends how high you are when the only thing in the picture is your head!

Terrain and Hazards

Expect to encounter a blend of grassy fields and rocky outcrops. While it’s mainly straightforward, watch out for the occasional muddy patch that might just try to steal your shoe!

Views

Gop Hill is all about the views! To the west, you’ll catch sight of the majestic Snowdonia. On a clear day, the Dee Estuary sparkles below and the hills of Wirral rise like a painting. For the best vistas, aim for late spring and summer; early morning or sunset is when Gop really shows off.

Nearby Summits

Don’t miss the chance to explore nearby peaks! Moel Hebog and Dinas Bran beckon for additional adventures, perfect for those whose legs still feel fresh after conquering Gop Hill.

Historical Significance

The name 'Gop' harks back to the Old Welsh language, meaning 'mound'. Walking here feels like stepping through history, especially at Gop Cairn—a fascinating glimpse into ancient burial customs and the prehistoric life of the region.

Conclusion

Gop Hill is an absolute treasure trove of nature, history, and stunning views just waiting for your eager feet. So lace up those boots, take a deep breath, and set out for an adventure that promises to tickle your sense of wonder. Who knows? You might even find a good spot for a picnic!

Given the attention to detail on this delightful hill, you might just leave with a heart as full as your memory card!

Explore routes near Gop Hill

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Dyserth to Prestatyn: old railway walkway return

8.5 km ~2h 30m Easy

View route

Liverpool Waterfront Walk with Men Walking & Talking

View route

Chester Walk with Men Walking & Talking

View route

Llyn Crafnant: Lakeside Circuit from the NRW Car Park

5.1 km ~2h Easy

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Gop Hill Circular Route

A scenic loop starting from the village of Gwaenysgor that takes you through woodlands and grasslands, offering lovely views along the way.

6.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

200-299m hill

Elevation

251m

823 ft

Prominence

60m

Coordinates

53.3105, -3.3722

SJ086801

OS Map

116

Explorer: 264N 265

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent trig point and an impressive prehistoric burial chamber known as the 'Gop Cairn'.

Terrain & Geology

Grassy with rocky outcrops largely easy to navigate but can be muddy in wet weather.

Gop Hill is primarily composed of limestone, with rich karst formations and occasional sandstone layers. The unique geological features contribute to the biodiversity in the area.

Views & Scenery

Views extend across the Dee Estuary, and the hills of Wirral can be seen on a clear day. The sight of Snowdonia to the west is particularly breathtaking.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Gop' is derived from the Old Welsh word meaning 'a mound' or 'hill'.

Historical Significance

Gop Hill is historically significant due to the impressive Gop Cairn, which offers insights into prehistoric burial practices in the region.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small parking area near the village of Gwaenysgor, with room for around 10 cars. Please be considerate of the local residents.

Public Transport

The nearest bus stop is in Rhyl, a short taxi ride away from Gwaenysgor.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly on Gop Hill, but Prestatyn offers cafes, public toilets, and shops.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Some areas can be slippery in wet conditions; be cautious near steep sections.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Gop Hill?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Gop Hill through the maps

Are there other walkers around Gop Hill?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Gop Hill search or of course create your own walk for Gop Hill

Can I organise a walk to Gop Hill?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Gop Hill.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Gop Hill?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Gop Hill here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Gop Hill location map

Grid reference: SJ086801

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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