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Ross-on-Wye

Riverside beauty. Vintage heaven. Neighbouring Symonds Yat.

  • Birthplace of tourism
  • Perched on a sandstone cliff above the River Wye
  • Set in the Wye Valley National Landscape
  • Close to Symonds Yat & Ledbury 
  • Heart of the 'Land of Hedgehogs'!
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Ross-on-Wye Boat


Embraced by the River Wye, Ross-on-Wye is an inviting place to potter. When William Gilpin wrote Britain's first travel guidebook about the Wye Valley in 1782, he sparked a trend for 'picturesque tourism'. Today, you can browse independent shops, saunter the historic streets or, if you are feeling more active, launch a canoe. Many moons ago this region was dubbed Archenfield or 'Land of Hedgehogs' - peek into St Mary's Church to find examples of the town's icon dating from the 17th century to the Second World War.

Ross-on-Wye: The essentials

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canoeing

Perfect Base for Canoe Trips

Ross-on-Wye makes the perfect putting in point for canoes and there are plenty of operators who can hire you all the necessary gear. Travel downstream through the dramatic Wye Valley to Kerne Bridge and on to Symonds Yat, spotting Goodrich Castle as well as swans, geese, buzzards, herons and ducks as you paddle. You may catch a glimpse of a kingfisher, otter or perhaps one of the resident peregrine falcons.

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View of river wye

Stunning Views & River Walks

From its sandstone perch, Ross-on-Wye commands an iconic view over the horsehoe bend of the river. Head to the top of town, behind the church, to find The Prospect -  a lookout point created by the "Man of Ross", the local philanthropist John Kyrle (1637–1724). Later, descend past the pastel houses and through the fragrant terraced public garden for a promenade along the river, part of the Wye Valley Walk.

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ross

Winter Delights: Vintage appeal & artistic style

Ross-on-Wye boasts a fantastically independent high street, including an abundance of shops selling antique, vintage and retro items. Track down treasures, from curios and collectibles to jewellery and furniture. There's plenty of gift and lifestyle shops, plus art galleries, a bookshop, cook shop and toy shop. Afterwards, take a relaxed stroll or indulge in a winter wine tasting.

 

 

Ross-on-Wye: Plan your trip

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Ross on wye high street

Places to eat

Discover the finest places to eat & drink, from the smart  No 3 Restaurant to nearby  gastropubs such as The Loughpool, The New Inn and Cottage of Content. 

Find cafes, pubs & restaurants in Ross-on-Wye
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Goodrich Castle

Things to see & do

Experience the River Wye by canoe or paddleboard, visit vineyards & cider makers, roam Goodrich Castle and visit tiny churches.

Discover things to see & do in Ross-on-Wye
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Kings Head Hotel Ross

Places to stay

Find your perfect accommodation in and around Ross-on-Wye, from riverside glamping to town house escapes, farmhouse B&Bs to vineyard stays.

View accommodation in Ross-on-Wye

Ross-on-Wye: Top attractions

In and around Ross-on-Wye...an amazing castle, vineyard tour & tasting, beautiful churches & craft cider makers

Active Adventures

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Parked bike

Bike the Southern Cider Circuit

Take a tour of the area's fantastic artisan cider producers, including the Ross-on-Wye Cider & Perry Company, on this fabulous trail which also taken in Hereford and Ledbury.
 

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Wythall Estate

Wine Walk

Hike this 4.5 mile circuit near Ross-on-Wye to discover a historic rural church, before entering the stunning grounds of Wythall Estate Vineyard (book a tour and tasting!) before visiting a much-loved country pub.

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Trip ideas & itineraries