The Runners’ Itinerary
What? An energising 5k sprint from Flint Castle to Flint Point and back again.
Where? Flint, Flintshire
Cadw site to see: Flint Castle
Most ‘Instagrammable’ spot: the great tower or ‘donjon’ in the site’s south-east corner. Pose in front of this unusual structure to capture the miles of coastal scenery and sky beyond.
Begun in 1277, Flint was one of the first castles to be built in Wales by King Edward I. With impressive views over the Dee Estuary, this solitary castle is often overlooked by its more Western counterparts and is renowned for featuring in Shakespeare’s epic historical play, Richard II.
Take your time to explore the fantastic ruins, which sit prominently on the coastal landscape, before beginning your run. From the castle, follow a path into the woods and enjoy glimpses of the estuary between the trees. From here, follow the winding path to Flint Dock.
As you jog, breathe in the clean coastal air and remember that this quiet, pretty quayside was once the busiest place in Flint — and also the dirtiest and most polluted due to the chemicals heavy industry used here in the 1800s.
From here, turn back onto the coastal path by following a short section of road and the winding river around the inlet to Flint Point.
Here you’ll find a beacon which is lit for special events as well as magnificent views up the estuary towards Greenfields and down river towards the Flintshire Bridge.
On your return to the castle, make you sure you capture a smug runner’s selfie at the castle and reward your exertions with a snack or hearty pub lunch at the nearby Mill Tavern.