website-logo

Things to Do in the Wye Valley

When you step into the Wye Valley, you seem to have stepped into another world. You either feel as if you are part of a period movie shoot or are truly part of a historical time leap to the past. If you must summarize the activities, you can do in this area, and you can probably shorten it to exploring medieval structures and prancing around in meadowlands. However, this shortened description does not do the place any justice.

Where is Wye Valley?

Wye Valley is part of the aptly named Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The AONB can be found straddling England and Wales. The area is protected, as it should be. Being at the Wye Valley can make you in awe of the various ways in which water amazes, from its icy forms to its flowing streams. The area combines both natural wonders and architectural genius. It would not be a surprise if you will be tempted to come for a visit. But what are the things that you can do in the Wye Valley? What are the places that you should focus on?

Recommended Activities

Arrange for a picnic by the Wye Banks

For those who want a relaxing day by the river banks, you can take your picnic basket and your swimsuits and settle down by the Wye Banks.

You will find several spots that you can stop at and lay your picnic blanket. Of course, there is the beautiful, serene river and the rough and tumble gravel beaches. You can take your pick.

The best spots are accessible, only ten minutes from Shellack village. You don’t even need to take a vehicle from Shellack. Just walk with your backpack and picnic basket. The hike is great exercise, as you breathe in the crisp air.

Do not forget to pass by the following areas:

  • The Warren in Hay
  • Redbrook’s Iron Bridge
  • Kerne Bridge’s canoe slip
  • Sellack’s suspension bridge

If you are planning to swim, note that the canoes will be dominating the river from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Take photos at Symonds Yat Rock

Symonds Yat Rock has some of the best views in the area. So, it presents a great opportunity to take beautiful environmental snaps. The river itself can already provide you with numerous angles to choose from.

If you need an extra incentive, you can also find the house from Netflix’s Sex Education.

Do be aware that Symonds Yat Rock is packed during the summer. You may think you are a little out of the way, but the fantastic views certainly appeal to enough tourists.

Watch Welsh sports

Hey, you can sit back when you are in Wyle Valley. It does not have to be walking, climbing, boating, and more. If you’ve ever met a Welshman, you probably already know that rugby is the national sport of Wales. The whole country loves the game and hearing a stadium of Welsh fans sing the national anthem is something really special. Live matches can be found in pretty much every pub, so order a drink and enjoy the atmosphere. If you fancy placing a bet on the match, make sure you use a reputable betting site. There is a lot of trustworthy information and tips, as well as a list of the best rugby betting sites, at scams.info.

While you’re in the Wye Valley, you can also go and watch the races at the Chepstow racecourse. You do not have to bet on a horse. Enjoy some exciting entertainment while watching beautiful horses gallop to their full speed. It might be a good idea if you would like to clap and scream. There, you will have a reason.

Have a relaxing drink with some buddies

Whether you are there with your family or friends, you may still make the most of Symonds Rock. At first glance at the photos, you may not immediately guess a pub set in this scenic little piece of heaven.

Right on the river banks beneath Symonds Rock, you will find Saracen’s Head. You can take that needed drink with your traveling companions. It can be a quick and hearty drink as you get ready for the next leg of your travels. On the other hand, it can also be pretty relaxed, as you can take sips while watching sunrise or sunset from the pub.

Wye Valley has other homey little pubs in the area:

  • Boat Inn
  • River Inn Café
  • Anchor Inn

Find out what their specialties are. For example, the River Inn Café does not only have to be a place to warm yourself with an alcoholic beverage. It can also be a cozy resting stop where you can eat lunch with your family. Their pastries and hot or cold drinks will reenergize you.

Go kayaking on the river

If you are at Wye Valley, you should take the fullest advantage of the river. Taking pictures, having a picnic, and swimming are excellent activity options. But assuming that paddle and descending on the river is one way to raise that adventure points several notches.

Kayaking is a way for you to experience the valley differently, paddling through the water through it. Don’t be afraid. Get that adrenaline pumping without being placed in imminent danger. Yes, there is always a risk, but not-so-experienced adventurers can handle the course.

Do be careful when you go down Symonds Yat as the rapids there are faster. Keep away if you are simply starting to embrace the hobby.

Canoe in the River Wye

You can still enjoy some action in the water without taking too many risks. We talked about how there are times the river is full of canoes earlier. Why can’t you be in one during the times you cannot swim?

Get into the hidden parts of Wye Valley by taking a boat. While kayaking can also offer that, you don’t get to appreciate the sights when trying not to fall off the whole time.

You can go to one of many canoe rental shops. Do be alert. While you may find some peaceful spots, there are also a few rapids to make the activity thrilling or even a little bit scary.

Hike along the trails

Of course, what are trails if you are not going to use them for hiking? Get your heart pumping to the ultimate cardio by taking the Wye Valley Hiking Trail.

The trail begins at Chepstow Castle. Then, you will have to pass through 136 miles along the river. The track is not all river and rocks, either. You also go through beautiful hills, woodlands, and meadows. However, you also need to go through challenging and potentially dangerous areas, such as gorges and ravines. The overall hike is pretty rugged, which should provide a great challenge to the experienced adventurer.

If you feel like you are not up to it, you may want to take a gentler path. Stick around the areas near Symonds Yat, Tintern, and Hay on Wye. A short hike can also be pretty invigorating. Then, you can come back to Wye when you feel ready for an increased level of difficulty.

Some of the trails you can find in the valley are themed. For example, there is the Sculpture Trail. Imagine walking on woodlands and then finding art along your way. These art pieces showcase the artists’ interpretations of what wildlife should look like.

Go rock climbing

Another way to take risks is to go rock climbing on the lower Wye Valley. A good site is only a few minutes away from popular Chepstow. However, Wyndcliff, as it is called, is better recommended for more advanced climbers. The Eagle’s Nest view at the top may serve as an incentive for these daredevils. Always make sure that you have secured yourself before you even ascend or descend.

Take a bike ride through the trails

If you prefer to take your bike through Wye Valley, you can choose the less challenging trails or even the historic marketplace paths. It is a good way to exercise while speeding up through the areas. This activity may also be a great way to spend time with fellow bikers.

Drive to the Black Mountains

If you cannot walk, then why not drive? You can do this if you like driving everywhere. You will still feel the awe of being right in the midst of nature. It is like your vehicle is a modern piece that contrasts with untouched nature.

But here is the thing, the road you may have to take may not even be technically part of Wye Valley. Gospel Pass, however, is close enough and only separated by a border. So, you can still consider it a major thing to do in the Wye Valley.

For those who don’t like driving, have a friend or family member do that while you take photos or videos from the passenger’s seat. You can exchange seats if you both want to experience driving and simply sightseeing.

Play golf on the Monmouthshire

Yes, relaxing on Wye Island can also mean visiting the parklands and playing golf. Your best bet would be the Rolls of Monmouth because of its scenic views and lush greens. However, you can also check out St. Pierre. Then there is the 2010 site for the Ryder Cup, Celtic Manor.

Hobnob with the locals

While nature presents a lot of enjoyable tasks and sights, do not forget the people. The best way to truly understand the locale is if you get to interact with people.

Some possible ways in which you can do this is by:

  • Playing golf with them
  • Mingling at the pubs and diners
  • Attending festivals
  • Chatting with vendors

Understandably, there are a lot of communing with nature activities in the valley. However, the area is also known for historic artificial spots, such as castles and churches. For those who would prefer dusty corridors over the fresh river and rolling grass activities, here are some activities for you.

Explore castles

What are the Wye Valley castles there for but exploring? One castle is the Chepstow Castle. It should always be part of your Wye Valley to-do list. After all, this castle is the oldest post-Roman, British fort that you can still explore.

It was in 1067 that William the Conqueror had this castle built. The building was raised when Britain was fresh off the Norman invasion. The castle doors are Europe’s oldest, dating back to 1190. From here, you will see a view of the town and the River Wye. There is an element of imminent but romantic danger in standing on the castle’s foundation, which is a rocky ledge.

Another castle of note is Goodrich. This castle was a little less old, built in the 13th century right after England was invaded. The castle did not even make it to the 20th century, relegated to ruins by the late 17th century.

However, Goodrich Castle has maintained its historic atmosphere. You can still feel how grand it once was even while it sits in decay. A guide can take you around through the various rooms to explain what each used to be. If you did not arrange an appointment with a tour guide, you can still walk around the castle.

Roam religious ruins and churches

Not only castles made their mark throughout Wye Valley history. The area may be steeped in beautiful, natural scenery, but it also has echoes of religion.

In 1131, Cistercian monks founded Tintern Abbey. It was made of wood, simple and austere. Later on, however, it was expanded when some Marcher monks came with more budget to give the abbey a more glorious renovation. However, the monastery still eventually became abandoned.

Despite that, the Wye Valley sanctuary ended up being a mysterious place to explore. To reach this historic spot, you need to take a 45-minute hike up Devil’s Pulpit.

Then, there is youngish St. Mary’s Church, not too far away from Tintern Abbey. Founded in 1866, it succumbed to fire not too long after – relatively – in 1977. Much of Tintern Abbey’s surrounding atmospheric beauty also surrounds St. Mary’s.

You can enter the privately-owned church anytime you want, however you can probably just peek a little because the old church has been labeled a potentially dangerous structure to be in.

Not all the churches are in ruins, though. You can also visit Gloucester Cathedral, where some of the more recent Harry Potter movies were shot. Imagine wearing your Gryffindor coat and imagining you are part of the set. Yes, we know that you are an adult – but that does not mean you should erase this from your to-do list.

Browse shops and buy antiques

Wye Valley is also home to a historic market town, Ross-on-Wye. The market can be traced back to the 17th century. It still tries to connect the present with the past, not only with its actual age but also with the goods you can purchase.

If you love antiques, this is the place to go. You can find some treasures and souvenirs that you can take to remember Wye Valley by.

View exhibits at the Nelson Museum

Slow down and view some art at the Nelson Museum. The museum was named after Norfolk local Horatio Nelson, who died at sea. If you check the museum’s site, it is currently closed, possibly because of COVID-19. However, if you are lucky enough to still visit the place, the entrance is free.

In keeping with the sea theme, you will find ship models. However, you will also find ceramics, weapons, glass, and other typical museum fares. Of course, you will see some that are specifically from the area.

Go treasure hunting

It is not exactly treasure hunting. However, you can go to Hereford Cathedral, which houses medieval treasures. These are truly valuable pieces, and not just little pebbles you pick up and name as treasures after a fun day at the beach.

The valuables you will find are Christian representations of history and geography, as seen through the Wye Valley and possibly beyond. It even has a library where the books are shackled to the shelves. The chains are long enough to allow you to read the books. The cathedral is also home to Mappa Mundi, a 14th-century map of how the world was precepted during that time.

Immerse in bookshops

So that you won’t be tempted to bring home some of the books in the chained library, you want to explore Hay on Wye’s bookshops. These aren’t just any bookshop. Visitors can enjoy the bookstores here. We recommend that you visit at the end of May. This period is when they celebrate the Hay Festival. You may be lucky to meet some international authors who may be willing to share some of their thoughts.

Can you imagine reading a good book while relaxing amid the beautiful Wye Valley? However, let us not forget that while Wye Valley seems like a place to go to when you want quiet, you can also go there when you want to mingle. The bookshop hangout with the authors is a start. However, there are other ways to enjoy the area.

Attend festivals

Various festivals do occur in the area.

In May, you may want to visit the valley for the Welsh Perry & Cider Festival. You will see how apple orchard products transform into delicious cider. Sipping varieties of these drinks and critiquing – or just plain enjoying them – seems like a great reason to come together. Then, there is the Hay Festival, which was mentioned earlier. You not only get to meet authors but also various talented people: musicians, economists, scientists, poets, politicians, and more. They are there to read and share books and merrily dine together.

In July, you can take part in the Monmouth Festival. This celebration is directed towards those who love all types of music. You get to listen to various kinds of music genres – for free! If you can stay for the whole nine days, you can get the most of this feast. You may be interested in knowing that Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen was recorded at Rockfield Studios, located near Monmouth.

In August, you can participate in a one-day campfire folk event. The Green Man is fairly new, only founded in 2003. It is no ordinary campfire activity because you get the chance to listen to a diverse set of performers, about 1500 of them. You can listen to poetry and standup. You may also get on wildlife walks.

In September, the foodies can rejoice. The Abergavenny Food Festival boasts more than 200 stalls featuring international dishes and local produce alike. You get to sample the featured meals and observe masterclasses.

Heed local recommendations

Because interacting with the locals is a great way to form warm memories, chatting with a few can make the experience more personal. Sometimes, locals can also provide recommendations that you don’t normally find in the usual guides. They can find some out-of-the-way but beautiful places.

Perhaps one great question to ask them would be, “How do Wye Valley folks spend their time?” Do they do touristy things, or do they get their joy from completely different things?

How to get to Wye Valley?

There is so much to do in Wye Valley. At first, you may think that this is just a place to take photographs. After all, there are so many scenic views and historical structures. Just those alone will take up a lot of your time. Then, you must consider all the fun activities you can do and the interesting people you will meet. Wye Valley is not just a painting but a dynamic work of art.

But how do you get there?

Transportation from Birmingham, London, or Manchester is your best best. Even though Wye Valley has so much to offer, there are not many public transport options. You can take a regular train from the cities mentioned above to get to Hereford. As for most of the places mentioned in the To-Do List, you need a car to get you around. This way, you can bring along stuff that you may need to enjoy your experiences, such as a bike and some climbing equipment. While in the Wye Valley, you can walk, climb, ride a bike, take a bus, rent a canoe, and more. Interestingly, Wye Valley accommodations may also provide you with a means to charge your electric car if you decide to travel on one.

Use the map below the get around Wye Valley: