The Sustrans National Cycle Network Route 5 (NCN 5) goes all the way from Chester to Holyhead. It offers something for everyone - from gentle, flat routes along converted railways, to country lanes up in the hills, where you can take in fantastic views across the Dee Estuary. 

In Flintshire, NCN 5 takes you from Sealand in the east, over to the seaside at Gronant in the north of the county. Between Chester and Connah’s Quay, there are eight miles of traffic-free path for cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users to enjoy. This section was developed by Flintshire and Cheshire County Councils.

More experienced cyclists can take the on road route through the pretty Flintshire villages of Halkyn, Whitford and Llanasa.

Regional Route 89 is a purpose built off road section which runs between Hawarden Bridge and Chester for over six miles and follows the north bank of the River Dee. This route links into Queensferry and Saltney, via the footbridge at Higher Ferry. Combined with NCN5, this makes an excellent circular route.

At Talacre, a section of cycle route has been provided through sand dunes to Gronant, and then on to Prestatyn. This links in to NCN 5 in Denbighshire.  Details can also be found in the free Rural Walks in Flintshire booklet (pages 76 & 77) (PDF 15MB new window).

Free leaflets and maps for Wales - SUSTRANS

The area was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1985 and is characterised by sweeping moorland, heather clad hills, limestone crags and valleys which provide wonderful views and quiet trails.  Whether you are walking or cycling the Clwydian Range is the ideal get away, with something suitable for all abilities, from families to the enthusiast. 

The Clwydian Range AONB website provides all the information you might need to plan your visit to the area.

If you are particularly interested in mountain biking the Mountain Bike Wales website is full of information about exploring the Clwydian Range including easy or challenging route plans, cycle friendly accommodation and events.  

Try Cyclinguk.com (new window) if you are looking for ideas or inspiration for a route for your next cycle ride or want to suggest your own route for others to enjoy. This website covers the whole of the UK so you can find a route wherever you are but it also gives details and photos of local routes added by people who have tried them.

Before you cycle anywhere please ensure you know how to stay safe.  Read the Cycle Safety (new window) pages of the RoSPA website.

Who do I contact at Flintshire County Council? For all general enquiries on cycling in Flintshire please contact the Cycling Officer on 01352 701234 or submit an enquiry (will open up an e-form)

Find further information regarding improvements to the transport system in North Wales in appendix 2 ‘Walking and Cycling’ of the North Wales Regional Transport Plan via the Taith website.

You can also take your bike to catch a train! Did you know that the Council has bike lockers at all the county’s train stations?