Severn Port Park Footpath

The Severn Port Park Footpath runs along the upper reaches of the River Severn as it winds through the countryside near Llanidloes - proper rural Mid Wales, the kind of place where you're more likely to see a red kite than another walker. It's a straightforward riverside walk that follows the water through woodland and open meadow, giving you a real sense of how the Severn behaves before it heads south towards England.

This is walkers' territory, full stop. If you're after dramatic scenery or a challenging hike, you'll be underwhelmed - it's gentle, accessible stuff. But that's exactly what makes it work for families with younger kids or anyone who just wants to stretch their legs without a map and a rucksack full of energy bars. The river itself is the main event, and watching it move through the landscape beats most manicured attractions.

Allow an hour to ninety minutes depending on how far you fancy going. There's no charge to access it, and the path is open year-round, though spring and early summer make the best of the riverside growth. Autumn's decent too if you like the light filtering through the trees.

If you're staying at Clywedog Riverside or Red Kite Touring Park - both within walking distance - this becomes a proper no-brainer addition to your days out. It slots in nicely with exploring Llanidloes itself, a genuine old market town rather than a tourist resort. Pair it with one of the larger parks further out like Meadow Springs, and you've got a solid base for some proper Mid Wales rambling without the crowds.