Wye Valley and Forest of Dean

This guide contains eight lovely walks in the beautiful Wye Valley between Hereford and Chepstow, and two in the sylvan Forest of Dean. Woodland walks feature prominently, reflecting the mostly rural and largely arboreal character of the region, set in Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire.

The River Wye has formed the boundary between England and Wales for centuries. The walk at Tintern, as well as enjoying the atmospheric abbey ruins, crosses the border from Wales into England and back again. Routes lead you to the imperious Wye Valley viewpoints at Symonds Yat Rock, the Devil’s Pulpit and the Eagle’s Nest, from where an extraordinary meander in the river can be seen at its best. Two of the more energetic walks follow a section of the Offa’s Dyke Path, from near Tidenham Chase, and descend the 365 Steps at Wyndcliff. More relaxing strolls can be enjoyed in riverside parkland at Ross-on-Wye; along the peaceful banks of the river below Capler Camp; and by the Wye in the historic cathedral city of Hereford.

In the Forest of Dean, keep a look out for wild boar. At Beechinghurst, you could offset an adrenaline-fuelled treetop adventure with the benefits of quiet woodland walking; while at Speech House, there’s the opportunity to relish exotic and native trees at the Cyril Hart Arboretum.