Walking in and around Ross-on-Wye, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the heart of Herefordshire, is a wonderful way to connect with nature, get fit and enjoy some stunning scenery. There are many guided and non-guided walks and there is also an annual Walking Festival organised by Walkers Are Welcome, attracting walkers of all abilities and ages. You can enjoy a wide variety of walks, taking in viewpoints, historical monuments, riverside and woodland strolls as well as longer treks for the more adventurous. A few of our popular walks starting in Ross-on-Wye are below (links to routes further afield can be found at the bottom of the page):
The John Kyrle Circular Walk
One of the most popular walks in the town is named after Ross-on-Wye’s famous philanthropist, John Kyrle, also known as The Man of Ross. It begins in a layby by Wilton Bridge on the outskirts of the town where you descend steps down to the riverside. The walk heads straight on with the river to your right then eventually bends around left to rise up onto a track high above on the sandstone cliff. The walk returns to the town entering through the grounds of St Mary’s Church and down to the High Street.
>>More information and a map can be found here.
Ross-on-Wye Buggy Route
If you’re looking for a fully accessible walk, try the Buggy Route, a family and buggy friendly route that is popular with users of electrically powered scooters and wheelchairs, as well as people with children’s buggies. Starting at The Bandstand on Wye Street, enjoy a gentle stroll along the riverside towards the rowing club, and across town, along the Town & Country Trail and through St Mary’s churchyard.
>>More information and a map can be found here.
Bridstow Walk
A five-mile circular walk starting at Wilton Road which is mostly flat, with one gentle climb and one short sharp climb. It follows the river Wye through pleasant riverside meadows, using a section of the Wye Valley Walk, and returns through Brampton Abbotts. There are fine views over Ross-on-Wye and towards May Hill.
>>More information and a map can be found here.
Penyard Hill
This route takes in some beautiful scenery over Penyard Hill and through Weston under Penyard, a few miles outside of Ross-on-Wye. Enjoy a leisurely walk of around six miles in total, through forests, meadows, orchards, the Town & Country Trail and finally looping back to town.
>>More information and a map can be found here.
For further information:
- Walkers are Welcome – click here
- Ross-on-Wye Walking Festival – click here
- Dog-friendly walks – click here
- Walking in England (John Harris) – click here