Why Visit the Wye Valley?

Planning a trip couldn’t be easier if you’re travelling to the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean. There are many towns and villages within easy reach so you’ll have somewhere different to visit every day. The land is rich in history as well as landscapes. There is a lot of industrial heritage in the area and Land Remediation Services such as those offered by ash remediation have recovered much of the land for alternative uses over the years.

Here we take a look at some of the fascinating towns in and around the Wye Valley:

Cinderford

This historic town is a market town in the heart of the Royal Forest of Dean. There was once a ford here but it was replaced by a bridge in 1674. This was a result of improvements made to the town after the upheaval of the English Civil War. Thanks to the elevation of the town, it enjoys wonderful views across the valley and of the River Severn. It’s a main commercial area of the Forest with a vibrant open-air market and plenty of pubs, restaurants and shops.

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Littledean, Drybrook and Ruardean

Not far outside of Cinderford are the villages of Drybrook, Ruardean and Littledean. Here you’ll find warm, welcoming country pubs with great food. In Littledean, you’ll discover the bizarre gaol designed by architect William Blackburn, imposing and made from red sandstone. At Littledean Hall is a Roman temple which wasn’t discovered until the 1980s. It is thought the temple here was a shrine to the water deity of the River Severn.

Ross-on-Wye

This attractive market town is shaped by the distinctive St Mary’s Church spire which has overlooked the town for more than 700 years. It’s an iconic destination in that it’s been called the birthplace of modern tourism and the area has long been a magnet for visitors. There are plenty of things to see and do, including mini golf, art galleries, the amazing hedge puzzle and the ruins of Goodrich Castle.

Gloucester

For a city, Gloucester is relatively small but this makes it easy to get around and see all the sights. From the historic docks to the cathedral that was used in the filming of the Harry Potter films, there are lots of tourist attractions to enjoy. The Quays offer a state-of-the-art shopping, restaurant and cinema complex in the heart of the renovated Victorian docklands. There are two museums to visit and the National Waterways Museum located in the docks.

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Newent

Newent is located in the north of the Forest of Dean and as beautiful unspoilt historic market town with buildings as old as the 13^th century. The half-timbered market house in the centre is the focal point of this lovely heritage conservation area. Newent Lake is a haven for wildlife and the town is also famous for its annual onion fayre. The surrounding countryside is picture postcard quality with fields, ancient hedgerows, narrow lanes and woodland charm. The iconic daffodil walks are a must in the springtime.

Symonds Yat

There is much to do on the water here with canoe hire being very popular. If you want to experience outdoor pursuits then there’s also kayaking, climbing, raft building and abseiling adventures available here. For a more tranquil experience, a visit to the butterfly zoo and maze is highly recommended.