Your dog-friendly market town

Posted on October 4, 2021 by rtctourism

If you’re planning a visit or holiday away in the UK, it’s sometimes a bit of a minefield if you’re not sure whether to bring along your four-legged furry friends with you – or if you do pack them along with your suitcases, where can you eat, drink and sleep and be welcomed with open paws?

Our Ross-on-Wye dog-friendly guide will hopefully give you some peace of mind if you’re thinking of visiting our lovely market town – we’ve highlighted the cafés, restaurants, bars and hotels that will welcome the whole family so you can plan ahead.

Cafés / diners: Ross-on-Wye has a lovely selection of cafés and eateries where you can sit and have a coffee, watching the world go by. Dog-friendly venues include The Gingernut Café and Truffles Delicatessen & Café on the High Street, Cantilupe Café on Cantilupe Road, Thorns Coffee Lounge in Crofts Mews and Woods of Whitchurch Coffee Shop a little further out of town. American diner, Gelatis, on Broad Street has no restrictions and the Seven Seas Fish Bar & Restaurant has a dog-friendly restaurant area. Caffe Eleganza, also on Broad Street, is happy for you to bring your pooch into the front section of the café or you can take a seat at one of their outdoor tables on the pavement.

Pubs: if you fancy a rewarding tipple after a muddy dog walk in the countryside, you’ll be pleased to know that most of the pubs in Ross are dog-friendly. The following pubs have no restrictions – The Man of Ross Inn (Wye Street), micropub The Tap House (Millbrook Road), King Charles II and The Eagle Inn (Broad Street), The King’s Arms (Gloucester Road) and the rugby-friendly Drop Inn (Station Road). Outside of Ross-on-Wye, other dog-friendly pubs include The White Lion in Wilton, The Inn on the Wye at Kerne Bridge, the Yew Tree and Red Lion in Peterstow, The Moody Cow in Upton Bishop and The Hostelrie at Goodrich.

Hotels: if you’re planning on staying over, you’ll be pleased to know that there are dog-friendly hotels in the town centre. The iconic Royal Hotel allows dogs throughout the hotel with the exception of the formal dining room and they have a limited number of dog-friendly rooms so please request one at the time of booking. Similarly, The King’s Head on High Street welcomes dogs in their Library and in the bar area but not in the restaurant, and most of their bedrooms are dog-friendly (again, please inform staff at point of booking). The Bridge House located in Wilton, a 5-10 minute walk from the centre of town, welcomes dogs inside the hotel and also in the bedrooms but not in the breakfast room.

There are also many dog-friendly self-catering cottages available in and around Ross-on-Wye including Wye Street Retreat, the Old Forge Cottage on Edde Cross Street, and a little further out of town at Broome Farm in Peterstow and Wharton Lodge Cottages in Weston under Penyard.

So, if you need advice or help with your next dog-friendly countryside stay, please get in touch with Ross-on-Wye Tourism at tourism@rosstc-herefordshire.gov.uk and we’ll be happy to help you with any questions.

Eat your greens!

Posted on October 1, 2021 by rtctourism

Founded in 1974 in the USA, Friday 1st October marks World Vegetarian Day which promotes an increasing awareness of people’s eating habits as more and more of us are either eating less meat, more fish or are completely turning towards a vegetarian or vegan diet. Ross-on-Wye’s many restaurants have been serving up delicious vegetarian meals for a long time and for anyone looking for a veggie menu, there is a huge array on offer catering for all tastes.

No 3: the current menu at this stylish restaurant on Gloucester Road has a range of options including vegan and vegetarian starters and mains, such as goat’s cheese mousse with beetroot carpaccio, curried cauliflower fritters and confit of butternut squash with tagliatelle pasta. They even have a dedicated vegan menu including mouth-watering desserts such as sticky toffee pudding and warm treacle tart with vegan vanilla ice cream. Call 01989 564997 to book. Their ‘sister’ establishment on the High Street, Leonard’s at 39, has both vegan and veggie tapas on their menu such as smashed avocado, homemade falafel, mac ‘n’ cheese, bbq cauliflower bites and mozzarella sticks. Their afternoon tapas tea menu also has veggie bagels and jerk-seasoned mediterranean vegetable & halloumi skewers. Call 01989 567830 to book.

The King’s Head‘s refurbished conservatory restaurant is a relaxing environment to enjoy an evening meal – the chefs use fresh local market produce and menus include vegetarian options such as Cajun-spiced Israeli couscous with goat’s cheese, dates & garlic croutons; Mediterranean macaroni with courgette & peppers in tomato ragu; and pepper, mushroom and courgette tian with rosemary & thyme new potatoes. You can either eat in the main restaurant or in the cosy library with soft lighting and comfy furnishings. Call 01989 763174 to book.

The Royal: this iconic hotel with its stunning views over the River Wye has extensive menus served from 7am to 10pm and include many popular vegetarian and vegan dishes – starters include soups, halloumi fries and sweet potato, chickpea & red pepper koftas plus they have a variety of main dishes including vegan fish and chips, goat’s cheese & roasted pumpkin tart or vegetarian burgers, made with chickpeas, red peppers & hoisin. If you fancy joining them for a weekend brunch, they serve both a Vegetarian and Vegan English Breakfast as well as avocado on toast and buttermilk pancakes with fruit. Full menus available online or call to book on 01989 565105.

Avellinos: this lovely Italian bistro on the High Street serves an array of vegetarian dishes on their lunch and evening menus. You’ll be hard pressed to choose from their extensive selection of starters and salads, risottos, pasta and pizza – including homemade bruschetta di napoli, linguine primavera or risotto al funghi. Call 01989 769222 to book.

On Broad Street, there are a number of eateries including the delightful American diner and ice-cream shop, Gelati’s, which serves up a selection of vegetarian jacket potatoes, salads and quiches or for early birds, you can try their ‘Vegelatis‘ full English vegetarian breakfast – vegetarian sausages, free-range eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, hash browns and wilted spinach.

On the opposite side of the street, The Cellar Bar not only serves up a huge range of cocktails but they also have a delicious vegetarian sharing board on the menu which includes mozzarella sticks, skin-on fries, hummus, crackers, olives and baked sourdough bread with chilli jam. Also on Broad Street, the King Charles II pub serves plant-based burgers, Mexican nachos, buffalo cauliflower wings, vegan chilli burgers and vegetable & lentil chilli with vegan ice cream sundae to finish.

The Man of Ross Inn is a firm favourite with the locals with its outside seating at the top of Wye Street – perfect for enjoying a pint or a bite to eat watching the sun go down. Vegetarian options include their panfried garlic mushrooms on ciabatta or warm ‘barra gallega‘ rustic baguette with vegetarian sausages, Cornish brie & cranberry sauce. For something more substantial, they offer butternut squash, goat’s cheese & beetroot burgers served on a toasted bun. Call 01989 763111 for further information.

Finally, if you’re a spice-lover or enjoy Indian, Thai or Chinese takeaways, there are plenty of healthy vegetarian options on offer. Ross-on-Wye has a great selection of takeaways including Riceberry Thai Cuisine; Café Zam Zam, Masala Flavours, Obilash and Rasoi for delicious Indian food; Indyyum offers a selection of pan-Asian dishes; or for traditional Chinese takeaways you can try Dragon House, China Boy Jo or New Golden Horse. Enjoy!

Ross-on-Wye’s town centre art trail

Posted on September 4, 2021 by rtctourism

h.Art (Herefordshire Art Week) is here once again, running from Saturday 4 to Sunday 12 September and is a nine day art trail open to all. Galleries and studios all over Herefordshire will open up their doors and welcome you in to view a wide array of arts and crafts in a variety of interesting and unique venues such as manor houses, historic barns, farms, churches and beautiful gardens.

The county-wide art trail has taken place every year in the second week of September since 2002 and has become part of Herefordshire’s rich cultural calendar.

Ross-on-Wye is renowned for its excellent galleries and has plenty of arts and crafts to view and buy, with many local artists available onsite to discuss their unique pieces with you. The h.Art and Ross-on-Wye art trail can be viewed at the following galleries and venues:

Made in Ross: this year-round gallery is located upstairs in the iconic Market House in the centre of Ross-on-Wye and is a co-operative of local arts and craft producers living within 20 miles of the town. Artists include Rosie Callinan, Chris Champness, Myra Fricker, Caz Holbrook, Eleanor Kercher, Jan Matthews, Claire McKnight, Louise Pilditch, Jackie Poulter, Nigel Street, Frances Warren and Susan White. The gallery is open every day from 10am until 4pm.

St Mary’s Church: situated just above the town, the church is one of the most prominent venues in Ross-on-Wye and is, for the first time really excited to be included as a venue for h.Art. Here you will find some beautiful collections from ten talented, local artists: Vanessa Burley, Helen Crawford, Alison O’Doherty, Berna Pullen, Donna Rose, Susan Sharp, Anna Taylor, Di Weissberg, Georgie White Winter and Sharon Yorke.

Gallery 54: the premier art gallery in the centre of Ross-on-Wye is located in a beautiful 17th Century listed building and displays a fine collection of contemporary abstract art including paintings, ceramics and glassware. The exhibition space consists of two discrete floors balanced and accessed by an open stairwell gallery. The strength of Gallery 54 lies in the calibre and integrity of the collected art and represents work from over 20 artists, both local and international. You can view the collection here.

Gaby Devitt Woven Textiles: located at 18 The Basement on Gloucester Road, a couple of minutes’ walk from the Market House, talented handweaver, Gaby, creates fabric patterns and designs that evolve from the actual process and experimentation of weaving. The most intriguing aspect is that throughout the entire process, the colour and fabric change. From initial card windings, making the warp, putting the weft through, to washing the fabric and turning it into its final product, at every stage you see the fabric in a new light. View Gaby’s gallery here.

Brunel Workshops: Ali Tregaskes (silversmith) and Sharon Curtis (printmaker) showcase their unique contemporary etched and oxidised silver jewellery and printmaking respectively. Ali’s work is inspired by patterns found in nature and architecture and Sharon’s creations are vibrant contemporary original reduction lino prints and hand-cut paper art. Brunel Workshops house a very unique collection of individual workshops and are within easy walking distance of Ross-on-Wye town centre (next door to JMART and near to Ross Garden Centre).

Yat Pottery: one of the newest galleries to arrive in Ross-on-Wye, Yat Pottery is located on the High Street and is run by husband and wife team, Adam & Gillian. The shop is a working pottery and art studio and their aim is to encourage everyone to try out or improve their creative skills, whether pottery or art. Adam will guide you through wheel throwing & hand building lessons or you can learn to paint and draw with Gillian. Full details of their exhibitions, studio and courses can be found here.

Lyons Gold: established in 2020 by James Lyons, this gallery is a hidden Herefordshire gem located right in the middle of Ross-on-Wye on Broad Street, and exhibits unique works of art from contemporary to functional – including innovative and beautiful original paintings, collectable limited edition prints and sculptures from acclaimed national and international artists alongside the most exciting emerging talents.

Oakwoman Glass: Nina Oakwoman creates beautiful, original handmade stained and fused glass art, and works from her studio and garden, located in Kent Avenue in Ross-on-Wye. As part of h.Art week and the Ross-on-Wye Art Trail, Nina will be exhibiting a selection of commissioned glass panels and also has smaller items for sale. New commissions accepted.

Edgelands: a friendly, open studio on Trenchard Street just a couple of minutes’ walk from the town centre near the riverside. Artist, Ann Johnson, exhibits her paintings, drawings, prints and collages, including explorations of the Wye. In recent years, Ann has had four paintings hung at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition. Ann has published a book of her work, Wild Margins, Drawings and Inspirations which is available on Amazon.

Sarah D’Arcy Ceramics: tucked away in a courtyard just off Church Street in the town centre, Sarah works from her studio, creating beautiful, idiosyncratic collections of animal sculptures, each handmade and unique, ranging from smaller pieces to large garden features. Sarah has been making ceramics all her working life, starting with a six month apprenticeship in the mid 1970s with Adam Dvorski at the Clyro Pottery just outside Hay-on-Wye. Her eclectic collections include hares, geese, sheep and hens made with a Crank mixture, which is a coarse clay and gives her work its beautiful tactile nature.

For full details of h.Art Week log on at www.h-art.org.uk or for Made in Ross, visit www.madeinross.co.uk.

Wine tasting in Wythall

Posted on August 26, 2021 by rtctourism

Located just 2 miles from Ross-on-Wye town centre, lies one of our county’s best kept secrets for those in search of a unique wine experience deep in the Herefordshire countryside. Wythall Estate nestles against the slopes of Bulls Hill and we were lucky to book our wine tour on what turned out to be a gloriously sunny day in August. As we approached the beautiful Grade I listed half-timber framed Tudor house, we could tell immediately that this was a very special place. We were warmly met by Anthea, husband Frank and brother Jamie who run the estate and our tour began outside on the gravel driveway where Frank gave us an excellent introduction to vine management, demonstrating the tools and equipment he personally uses to maintain the health of the sprawling vines literally just a stone’s throw away from us.

Leading us through the vineyards, Frank showed us Wythall Estate’s unique selection of vines which were starting to show encouraging signs of growth, ready for the autumn harvest where the wine production starts in earnest. Grapes include pinot noir, rondo, orion and the lesser-known siegerrebe which is used to produce their own champagne-style sparkling white (‘style‘, because despite the fact that it is produced using exactly the same process as champagne, it cannot be called as such for obvious reasons).

The estate’s own microclimate ensures that its award-winning wines can rival some of the most high profile wine producers on an international stage. This is mainly due to the protective terrain which prevents damage during the cold months and ensures maximum warmth from the sun during summer months – the perfect balance for growing exceptional wine. As we followed Frank through the fields, we were struck by the stunning surroundings – the vineyards are hugged by swathes of wild flowers and flanked by the peaceful sound of a small stream which runs between the house and the vineyards on the other side. The tour circled back to the manor house, passing the two dog-friendly self catering cottages which are attached to the main house and sit adjacent to the beautifully maintained lake on the forecourt.

Jamie greeted us and led us to our wine tasting in the old dining room which could transport you back a few centuries, complete with open fireplace, vintage furniture, part stone, part timber-framed walls and floors with huge flagstones. We tested the full range of wines produced on the estate including the white Siegerrebe, two reds (a Pinot Noir and Estate Red), their stunning Sparkling Rosé made from a blend of Orion and Rondo grapes (the aroma akin to a bowl of freshly picked strawberries). We finished with their Special Reserve signature sparkling white, a pale golden colour with a very unique baked apple flavour made exclusively from their Orion grapes – perfect for any special occasion. All of Wythall Estate wines have won awards at major European and International competitions and are stocked in a small handful of delicatessens and local gastro pubs, including Truffles Delicatessen in Ross-on-Wye.

Tours are available a couple of times a month until the end of the year (view available dates at https://wythallestate.co.uk/vineyard.html) – the perfect excuse to spoil your loved one on their birthday or maybe even book a group tour with friends this Christmas and learn about the team’s plans for the next generation of wine production. Contact Anthea to book, by emailing info@wythallestate.co.uk or call 01989 566868.

How green is our county

Posted on April 23, 2021 by rtctourism

We are so lucky to live in one of the most beautiful counties in the UK.

Herefordshire – resting along the border of Wales, with its rolling hills, stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife and award-winning food producers – has tourists returning year after year to enjoy everything the county has to offer. However, as highlighted through this week’s Earth Day campaign, with the environment almost at breaking point, this can only happen if we commit together to change our habits to secure this future. David Attenborough once quoted: “The future of humanity and indeed, all life on earth, now depends on us.”

The Telegraph reported earlier that the Environmental Performance Index (EPI), which outlines the most eco-friendly countries across the globe, ranks the UK 4^th behind Denmark, Luxembourg and Switzerland – so we’re not doing too badly on the global stage. This is also good news for tourism, as a country’s eco-credentials is a growing concern for many holidaymakers, who are keen to align their travel plans with their life values.

Alongside the global perspective, locally, in Ross-on-Wye, there are armies of volunteers doing their bit to keep our beautiful countryside as clean and sustainable as possible. From recycling paper and plastics, to planting trees; from volunteers dedicated to looking after our marine and wildlife, to on-the-ground litter picking crews.

Ross Community Litter Clean Up Crew (RCLCUC), set up in 2018 by Jilly Scamell, Anne Taylor and Chris Bartrum, now has around 50 volunteers who regularly clean the streets and surrounding countryside. In the last couple of years, they have collected over 2,210 bags of litter which are left at official collection points in and around the town. Jilly commented: “We love the fact that the group is for our community and are constantly amazed by the amount of volunteers that have got involved especially since March last year. After all there is ‘No Planet B’. As we all are able to enjoy our amazing countryside especially during such difficult times we all need to ensure that we look after it. Due to regulations the litter crew are not permitted to take waste home and recycle which is sad as there is lots of waste that could easily be recycled if everyone took their rubbish home with them. That’s the dream. You’re never too old or too young to get involved and if you want to find out more then join the Facebook page or message me for further details on 07779 254091”.

Elsewhere in Ross-on-Wye and Herefordshire, there are huge numbers of eco-friendly organisations campaigning hard for a greener world: groups such as Enviroability, the Zero Waste Food Hub, the Marine Conservation Society, Herefordshire Green Network and Herefordshire Wildlife Trust to name but a few. A new initiative aimed at parish councils and individuals, is The Great Collaboration, an interactive online platform which will track and capture information about the carbon reduction actions that individuals, business, community groups and schools in the local community are taking and planning.

As we slowly recover from the pandemic, it is so encouraging to see our local volunteers and communities getting behind these initiatives which will help our countryside to survive, become more resilient and provide a sustainable environment for generations to come – and allow tourists to continue to enjoy what we are so fortunate enough to have right on our doorstep.

Ross-on-Wye Brings the Romance to You this Valentine’s Day

Posted on February 8, 2021 by rtctourism

Roses are red, violets are blue, this Valentine’s Day is all about you! Although it might not be quite the romantic getaway we had in mind, local shops and restaurants throughout Ross-on-Wye are making things easy and accessible by bringing the special day right to you and your loved one. Here are just a few ideas on how to make the most of romance this February.

Cross Keys Inn

Love is in the air at The Cross Keys Inn as well as the divine smell of homemade Valentines chocolate cheesecake. The limited Valentines menu consists of 2 Welsh Black beef burgers, 2 loaded fries, a free bottle of Pinot and a Valentines chocolate cheesecake heart. Their famous cheesecakes are also available to buy separately for £20 and flavours include: lemon meringue, chocolate orange, raspberry and vanilla and white chocolate and strawberry. Call 07833016777 to order yours for delivery now.
Cross Keys Inn Goodrich | Facebook

Cellar Bar

The Cellar Bar has been working hard to perfect their Valentine’s Day menu for you this year. Starting from just £25pp this comes with a starter, main and dessert with a wide range of delicious dishes to choose from. Available on Saturday 13^th February too, it is a great wine and dine to share with your pals for a Zoom night in!
The Cellar Bar | Facebook

Designer Flowers

These roses are certainly a radiant red and their violets are a beautiful blue! Designer flowers has the flower power to brighten up anyone’s day. They can create bespoke displays depending on your request. They are offering a collection and delivery service too.
Visit www.designerflowers.co.uk to place your order.

Ross Wines

Take your taste buds all the way to the romantic destination of Sicily by purchasing this fruity red from Ross Wines. The Baglio Gibellina, U. Passimiento is a Valentine’s Day favourite. It is full of intense flavours; the palate is warm and full-bodied with harmonious acidity and smooth and elegant tannins. The full range of wines are on offer at discount Valentine prices: red; white and rose; still and sparking.
Visit www.rosswines.co.uk or call 01 989 76 22 75 to order.

Plan ahead!

Surprise your loved one with some forward thinking and book this romantic overnight stay at The Old Barn House for the summer months ahead. Located just 10 minutes from Ross-on-Wye, this accommodation offers a hot tub, beautiful country views, large private mature garden (with outside seating, outdoor games and gas BBQ) and is walking distance from a picturesque fishing lake (with complementary fishing for guests). The property has all the touches you would expect from a luxury cottage, including welcome basket of local produce on arrival and dogs are welcome. Full details of the property can be seen here: https://oldbarnhousehereford.co.uk/

Wharton Lodge

For something a little more private the two-person cottage at Wharton Lodge boasts parkland views from every room. The interior designed sitting room is stylish and comfortable with a dining area perfect for a romantic meal. A welcome hamper of provisions, fresh flowers, towels, bath robes, slippers, luxury toiletries, down pillows and luxurious Egyptian cotton bed linen all add to the comfort of your stay. Visit www.whartonlodge.co.u to plan ahead and make your booking for this summer.

Follow us on Facebook at @VisitRossonWyeTourismAssociation, Instagram at @visit_rossonwye and Twitter @VisitRossOnWye for more updates

READ ALL ABOUT IT – Herefordshire sweeps national press as a must visit destination for 2021

Posted on January 25, 2021 by rtctourism

Earlier this month, Ross-on-Wye was named one of the ‘Five places to buy that are better than the Cotswolds’ by The Sunday Times. Of course, we already knew that but now the secret is out. With mentions of the town’s famous rowing club, (www.rossrowingclub.co.uk) and our many independent antique shops, award winning butcher and cafés, the article also describes Ross-on-Wye as ‘the heart of the Herefordshire community’.
Read the whole article here: Five places to buy that are better than the Cotswolds | Home | The Sunday Times (thetimes.co.uk)

In other news, The Telegraph nominated Herefordshire as the number one hidden corner of Britain. Tell us something we don’t know. Also described as a ‘criminally overlooked destination’. With mentions of our lovely neighbours, Bromyard and Hereford, we couldn’t agree more with this super write up for our wonderful destination.

Read the full article here for satiation inspiration – get ready to book your 2021 trip before others get in there first: The hidden corners of Britain to escape the crowds this summer (telegraph.co.uk)

Follow us on Facebook at @VisitRossonWyeTourismAssociation, Instagram at @visit_rossonwye and Twitter @VisitRossOnWye for more updates.

Winter Rambles in and Around Ross

Posted on January 7, 2021 by rtctourism

January marks the perfect time to dust off the cobwebs and explore the great outdoors. Breath in the fresh crisp air, take in the rolling hills and admire the frosty mornings. Ross-on-wye is the gateway to the Wye Valley and hosts an abundance of beautiful scenic trails and hikes, so to explore the local area and stay fit and healthy this January, here are some winter rambles to enjoy around Ross.

John Kyrle Walk

John Kyrle, known as ‘The Man of Ross’, was a 17th Century philanthropist and this walk around Ross-on-Wye is believed to be a favourite of his. After his father’s death in the 1650’s he inherited the timber-framed house in Ross, opposite the Market House. Here he lived modestly as a bachelor on an income, it is said, of £500 per year. If you look up at the side of the Market House opposite John Kyrle’s house, you will notice the curious logogram on the wall representing ‘Faithful to Charles in heart’. This is traditionally associated with Kyrle showing his loyalty to the crown. To start this 3-mile loop, park in the Wilton Road car park, and set off from the Wye Valley Walk board behind the skateboard park. Cross the footbridge and head up the steep path, then at the junction turn right on the John Kyrle Walk path.
https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/downloads/file/1755/john_kyrle_circular_walk

Weston-under-Penyard

Located three miles from Ross-on-Wye, walkers can start this walk at the Village Hall at School Lane in Weston-under- Penyard. This leisurely 4.2-mile loop will lead you to Dancing Green encompassing stunning views of the surrounding rolling hills. This circular walk takes walkers through Pontshill and returns along the edge of Penyard woods. Download the PDF map here:

walk13_Weston Under Penyard to Dancing Green 200715 (wordpress.com)

Bridstow and back

The Bridstow Walk is a circular and mostly flat stile-free walk, crossing the River Wye at Wilton using footpaths and lanes to Bridstow Church. It includes a loop around Wilton Castle, views to Ross, May Hill, Penyard Hill and Chase Hill. It can be muddy in places after heavy rain! The walk is around 5.6 miles and starts from the riverside bandstand, in Wye Street. Walkers can park in the road at start or in the Wilton Road Car Park.
Download the full PDF loop here:

walk13_Weston Under Penyard to Dancing Green 200715 (wordpress.com

The Buggy Route

Ross-on-Wye Buggy Route – A family and buggy friendly walk popular with users of electrically powered scooters and wheelchairs, as well as people with children’s buggies. Start at the Ross-on-Wye Bandstand, Wye Street or in the car park on Wilton Road. This easy walk is approximately 4 miles. Start by crossing the road from the bandstand to follow the tarmac path to the riverside footpath and turn right. Follow the path that was installed to provide access along the full length of the riverside towards the Rowing Club.
Download the full PDF loop here:
walk03 Buggy Route 200720 (wordpress.com)

Chase Wood Walk

Retrace the river courses, ancient and modern, around Ross before an exhilarating ascent to the top of Chase Wood on this 6.6 mile loop taking roughly 3-4 hours. The route will include Riverside paths, fields and steep slopes in Chase Wood. An ancient river meander south of Chase Wood suggests that millions of years ago the sandstone outcrop on which the town stands would have been almost surrounded by the river.Check out the full route here: Ross-on-Wye and Chase Wood Walk, Herefordshire, England | Ross-on-Wye (showmeengland.co.uk)

Wye Valley Walk

Stretched across 136-miles, the Wye Valley route runs through the heart of the Wye Valley, packed with natural beauty and rich in history.

With the Bristol Channel at your back, walkers can start from Chepstow, with its medieval castle remains guarding the lower reaches of the Wye, and travel up through the Forest of Dean via Monmouth, birthplace of King Henry V, and Ross-on-Wye, all the time enjoying spectacular views along the Wye Valley.

You can choose to do all or some of the Southern section of the Wye Valley Walk and Walklite Baggage Transfer is happy to discuss the route in detail to help you make up your mind.
Walklite Baggage Transfer can organise your bag transfers for the walk so you can enjoy the trail hands free! Walklite Baggage understand the needs of walkers and their local knowledge means that they can help make your trip go smoothly and enjoyably. They offer tailored services to any trip so start planning now for the Spring and visit the website to book now:

Walklite Baggage Transfer – Home Page (walkliteglos.co.uk)

For more walk ideas and inspiration visit the Walker are Welcome page, a small group of volunteers who comprise keen walkers from in and around Ross-on-Wye.
Walkers are Welcome – Welcome to Walking in Ross

Follow us on Facebook at @VisitRossonWyeTourismAssociation, Instagram at @visit_rossonwye and Twitter @VisitRossOnWye for more updates and gift ideas.

Please be mindful when using the stores and visiting the town. Protect yourself, the locals, and the businesses by washing your hands, wearing a facemask and keeping at least two met

Five of the Finest Ways to Welcome in 2021

Posted on December 21, 2020 by rtctourism

It is time to say goodbye to 2020 and welcome in the New Year! In Ross-on-Wye visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to celebrating in style. This year there are plenty of seated fine dining options, so we have hand selected five of the finest ways to welcome in 2021. Be sure to make a booking with your loved ones and enjoy a delicious evening filled with food and wine.

No 3 Restaurant

Relax into the New Year in this rustic-chic eatery where the owners will take care of your evening ahead. No 3 has an intimate and easy-going dining atmosphere that offers a memorable experience. For those with pure food indulgence in mind, they offer a modern, European menu plus a tasty bespoke cocktail menu to try too. Book for New Year’s now to avoid disappointment.
N03 Restaurant Ross-on-Wye (no3rossonwye.com)

Leonards at 39

If you are looking for an elegant but casual drinking and dining experience accompanied by the rattle of cocktails freshly shaken by the bar team, then look no further. Leonards at 39 caters for a vibrate and buzzy evening with an extensive drinks list where you can choose from amazing cocktails, a variety of wines by the glass, draft beers/ciders and large selection of spirits – there is something for everyone. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the varied menu that offers a selection of tapas style dishes and a stunning choice of worldwide main dishes as well as burgers, flatbread and sandwiches.
About – Leonards at 39

Orles Barn

Orles Barn is nestled in the picturesque Wye Valley and one of the only surviving parts of the original structure is a former apple store. The low wall that edges the front lawn is the remains of a long building in which wooden clogs were once made for locals and passing workers. Enjoy a relaxing evening with the special New Year’s Eve menu priced at £45. Drink in the cosy Lounge before indulging in the contemporary dinner menu using locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce.
www.orlesbarnhotel.co.uk

Old Court Hotel

The Old Court Hotel retains the feel of an authentic and inviting Old English Inn, full of 16th Century character. The hotel has two well stocked bars, a beautiful Tudor Dining Room restaurant, a cosy lounge, an all-weather conservatory which leads on to a large patio area and beautifully kept gardens. The New Year’s Eve package includes a 2-night stay, a special dinner, plus breakfast. Hotel accommodation features many period rooms including three with Four Poster beds. As well bed & breakfast they also offer self-catering accommodation in holiday apartments and 3-bedroom holiday cottage.
For more details on price and how to book visit Herefordshire – Old Court Hotel

Glewstone Court

Get cosy by the cracking log fire and have a charming evening at Glewstone Court. Try the set New Year’s Eve menu from £75 and be surrounded by twinkling lights and the warmest of welcomes to ensure that you will enjoy a memorable experience. Whether you are planning a quiet meal for two, private dining for six, or just enjoying your favourite tipple, the unique combination of excellent food, friendly service and a relaxing atmosphere will really get you in the spirit of the festive season.

If you would like to make a booking to celebrate New Year’s Eve call 01989 770 367 or visit www.glewstonecourt.com.

Follow us on Facebook at @VisitRossonWyeTourismAssociation, Instagram at @visit_rossonwye and Twitter @VisitRossOnWye for more updates and gift ideas.

Please be mindful when using the stores and visiting the town. Protect yourself, the locals, and the businesses by washing your hands, wearing a facemask and keeping at least two metres apart.

Christmas Windows Light up Ross-on-Wye this Festive Season

Posted on December 9, 2020 by rtctourism

The shops are open, the decorations are up and there is a festive feeling in the air around Ross-on-Wye. All the local businesses have pulled out all the stops this year and created window displays with dazzling lights, frosted snowflakes, Rudolf’s and of course Santa’s little elves. Here are just a few of the impressive festive widows around town this year.

Crossfield Creations

Crossfield Creations sells a huge number of engraved wooden gifts from family trees to bowls and everything in between. The store owner hosts engraving demonstrations and also stocks other gifts for special occasions.
High Street, Ross-on-Wye, HR9 5HL
www.crossfield-creations.co.uk

Crowsfeet

Step into an eclectic mix of gifts for ladies, gents & children, including artist cards and wrapping paper. Whatever you choose to buy will be wrapped for free in something special. This shop is packed with gifts, unusual cards and gift books – well worth browsing around.
Cantilupe Road, Ross-on-Wye Tel: 01989 763698
www.crowsfeetgifts.co.uk

Designers Flowers

A bijou florist on Gloucester Road serving locals and tourists alike. Walk into the scented interior for a comprehensive selection of flowers and blooms.
31 Gloucester Road, Ross-on-Wye, HR9 5LE Tel: 01989 566560
www.designerflowersross.co.uk

Gallery 54

High calibre international contemporary abstract art displayed on several floors.
Gallery 54 is accessible to everyone who enjoys viewing paintings, ceramics and glassware.
54 High Street, Ross-on-Wye, HR9 5HH Tel: 01989 567917
www.gallery-54.com

Field Fayre

Ross-on-Wye’s award winning organic store includes fruit, vegetables and natural organic products. The little family run shop in the heart of Ross-on-Wye will create bespoke hampers for all your culinary requirements.
18-19 Broad Street, Ross-on-Wye HR9 7EA Tel: 01989 566683
www.field-fayre.co.uk

Truffles Delicatessen

Truffles Deli is a culinary haven, stocking the best local produce & foods from around the world. Stocking everything a deli should, and more. Truffles Deli will cater for all foodie fanatics from favourite cheeses to delicious chocolates.
17-19 Church St, Ross-on-Wye
www.facebook.com/trufflesdeli