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'!
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
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.
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.
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
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.
Things to see & do
Experience the River Wye by canoe or paddleboard, visit vineyards & cider makers, roam Goodrich Castle and visit tiny churches.
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.
Ross-on-Wye: Top attractions
An amazing castle, vineyard tour & tasting, beautiful churches & craft cider makers
Explore Near Ross-on-Wye
Goodrich Castle
Standing in open countryside above the River Wye, Goodrich Castle is one of the finest and best preserved of all English medieval castles, boasting a fascinating history and spectacular views from the battlements. Learn about the Civil War Siege, spy the 'murder holes' built into the castle walls, and admire the beautiful stained-glass window in the 13th century chapel. Be sure to find the famous 'Roaring Meg' – the only surviving Civil War mortar – and cache of cannonballs.
Wythall Estate Vineyard Tour & Tasting
Planted in 2010, Wythall Estate produces award-winning still and sparkling English wines. Join a tour that begins with a walk through the vineyard, exploring the grape varieties grown here, along with pruning methods, harvesting and more. Then enjoy a tutored tasting session in the beamed dining room of the 16th-century manor house.
Canoe the Wye
Adventure along the river in a canoe, past Goodrich Castle and on to Symonds Yat. Keen eyes may spot kingfishers, otters and birds of prey.
Hoarwithy Church
A gem in rural Herefordshire, this captivating church will transport you to Tuscany with its Italianate style, including mosaics, marble columns and an altar with lapis lazuli.
Made In Ross
Set in the town's sandstone Market House, the Made in Ross cooperative displays and sells the work of local artists and makers.
Active Adventures
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.
