Gop Hill
Good walks are even better shared.
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
Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.
Dyserth to Prestatyn: old railway walkway return
View route
Liverpool Waterfront Walk with Men Walking & Talking
View route
Conwy Quay to Llanfairfechan: the upland coast-path alternative
View route
Llyn Crafnant: Lakeside Circuit from the NRW Car Park
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.
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.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
View all
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SJ0880 : Gop Cave above Trelawnyd
Colin Park
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SJ0880 : Gop Cave
Chris Andrews
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SJ0880 : The 'Cairn' at Gop Hill
Peter Craine
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SJ0880 : Cave entrance, Gop Hill
Peter Craine
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SJ0880 : Cave and mound at Gop Hill
Peter Craine
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SJ0880 : Cave at Gop Hill
Peter Craine
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SJ0880 : Cave within a cave, Gop Hill
Peter Craine
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SJ0880 : The Gop
Noisar
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SJ0880 : Trelawnyd - view from Gop Hill.
Mike Harris
SJ0880 : The Gop
Noisar
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
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
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
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
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
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: SJ086801
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Hills within 30 km
Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
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