Nature
Through The Local Lens: Mark Adams
Post date:
9th April 2026
Through the Local Lens: with photographer Mark Adams. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
- Locations
- Ross On Wye
Ross-on-Wye
Discover Ross-on-Wye
The Gateway to the Wye Valley
Ross-on-Wye is a friendly and welcoming market town perched high above a scenic bend in the River Wye, right in the heart of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Ideally located midway between Hereford and Gloucester, it’s often known as the Gateway to the Wye Valley - and a wonderful place to start your adventure.
A Town Full of Character and History
Much of Ross is a designated conservation area, with the historic Market House at its centre. Built from Old Red Sandstone, this ancient monument now houses a vibrant art and craft gallery and one of the town’s two tourist information centres.
Ross is also renowned for its many independent shops, galleries, cafés, restaurants, and hotels - many of them are dog-friendly - offering a warm welcome to every visitor.
Overlooking the town is the spire of St Mary the Virgin Parish Church, with its neighbouring Prospect Gardens, offering panoramic views of the horseshoe bend in the River Wye, the Black Mountains, the Brecon Beacons, and the Malvern Hills.
The town’s rich history stretches back to the 16th century, and Ross-on-Wye is proudly recognised as the Birthplace of British Tourism. In the mid-18th century, Rev. John Egerton (c.1745) organised pleasure boat tours along the Wye, inspiring the 1782 publication of “Observations on the River Wye” by William Gilpin - Britain’s first illustrated tour guide. Ross-on-Wye became the starting point for the famous Wye Valley Tour.
Ross’s beautiful mock Gothic town walls and Gazebo Tower, built in 1833, are perfect examples of the picturesque style so popular with early visitors. Many of these historic highlights can be explored via the Ross-on-Wye Heritage Trail.
Explore the Riverside Arboretum
In 2019 a one-mile long linear arboretum was created along the banks of the River Wye, the first such arboretum in the UK. It consists of 163 trees, including many rare species, to attract visitors, contribute to the town's conservation agenda and add natural beauty to the riverside. An open air attraction with a fascinating collection of trees stretching right along the river bank provides a safe and educational experience for those who love trees, conservationists and casual visitors alike. It will be interesting to see this develop. Download the tree maps:
Arts, Events, and Festivals
There’s always something happening in Ross!
- Summer Bandstand Concerts: Free Sunday afternoon concerts by the river.
- Phoenix Theatre: A lively hub for local productions and film screenings.
- Festivals & Events: Ross is home to a busy calendar of festivals, with a lively music scene and events happening throughout the year. Find out more at Visit Ross-on-Wye's website linked here.
An Outdoor Adventure Hub
Set in glorious Herefordshire countryside, Ross-on-Wye is perfectly placed for exploring the surrounding region. Nearby highlights include:
- Forest of Dean and Symonds Yat
- Goodrich Castle
- Tintern Abbey
- Hereford Cathedral
- The Malvern Hills
- Cheltenham, Hereford, Gloucester, and Cardiff
Walking, canoeing, cycling, and fishing opportunities are abundant and Ross is proudly a Walkers are Welcome town.
Each autumn, the town hosts an annual walking festival, and there are 18 self-guided walks available to download, helping you explore the area's natural beauty at your own pace.
Businesses related to Ross-on-Wye
Prices from:
£90.00
Families | Groups | Foodies
The King's Head Hotel
A family run hotel in the most picturesque street Ross. All rooms are en-suite with tea and coffee… A family run hotel in the most picturesque street Ross. All rooms are en-suite with tea and coffee facilities, freeview flatscreen television, free Wi-Fi and car-park.
Adventure | Families | Groups
River Wye Canoe Hire
Ross on Wye Canoe Hire, based in Symonds Yat West in the heart of the Wye valley is one of the UK's… Ross on Wye Canoe Hire, based in Symonds Yat West in the heart of the Wye valley is one of the UK's leading Canoe Hire specialists with over thirty years of experience in the…
Foodies | Accessible | Families | Dogs | Groups | Relaxation
Harts Barn Cookery School
Cookery experiences for all. Holiday activities, parties, fire cooking, world cookery and many… Cookery experiences for all. Holiday activities, parties, fire cooking, world cookery and many more. Bespoke experiences for family groups & friends are. Venue hire & meeting…
Adventure | Families | Groups
Wyedean Canoe & Adventure Centre
As a family we have run our Adventure centre on the East bank of the river Wye since 1987. We… As a family we have run our Adventure centre on the East bank of the river Wye since 1987. We specialise in Canoe Hire from an hour to multiple day trips and everything in…
Adventure | Families | Groups
Wye Canoes
We are your Wye Valley Canoe, Kayak and Paddleboard hire experts...Based in beautiful Symonds Yat… We are your Wye Valley Canoe, Kayak and Paddleboard hire experts...Based in beautiful Symonds Yat West, with online booking your river Wye adventure couldn't be simpler. We…
Adventure | Families | Groups | Dogs
Canoe the Wye Ltd
Canoe hire in the Wye Valley is the ultimate activity for those who love the outdoors. Ideal for… Canoe hire in the Wye Valley is the ultimate activity for those who love the outdoors. Ideal for families on holiday, friends seeking a challenge or groups wanting to do…
Nature | Arts | History
Newnham Private Hire
Bespoke chauffeur driven private tours of the beautiful Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Bespoke chauffeur driven private tours of the beautiful Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Adventure | Families | Groups
Wye Adventures
We are the place to come to for your Wye Valley Outdoor Experiences; canoes, kayaks, SUP boards,… We are the place to come to for your Wye Valley Outdoor Experiences; canoes, kayaks, SUP boards, climbing, bushcraft, survival, gorge scrambling, archery and more.
Adventure | Dogs | Families | Groups
Symonds Yat Canoe Hire
With our base right on the banks of the beautiful River Wye at Symonds Yat West, in the heart of… With our base right on the banks of the beautiful River Wye at Symonds Yat West, in the heart of the stunning Wye Valley, we are in the perfect location for you to begin your…
Foodies | Accessible | Dogs
The Forest Larder
The Forest Larder is an eclectic collection of food and drink from the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley… The Forest Larder is an eclectic collection of food and drink from the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley and beyond.
Adventure | Groups | Dogs | Families
Way2Go Adventures Ltd
Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing,… Way2Go Adventures is a family-run business offering exciting outdoor activities such as Canoeing, Kayaking, Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP) and Gorge Walking in the Wye Valley…
Families
Wythall Estate
Two cottages completely self-contained and situated in the west wing of 16th century half-timbered… Two cottages completely self-contained and situated in the west wing of 16th century half-timbered manor house in a secluded and idyllic setting with a garden, duck pond and…
4-12 July 2026 are the farOpen art trail dates for your diary. Visit artists in their workshops and… 4-12 July 2026 are the farOpen art trail dates for your diary. Visit artists in their workshops and galleries during this annual event in the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley,…
Arts | Families | Groups
Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter
Remarkable pottery experiences for individuals, groups and organisations. We work with thousands of… Remarkable pottery experiences for individuals, groups and organisations. We work with thousands of workshop participants, all ages and abilities, sharing the many benefits…
Business Directory
Ross-on-Wye Town Council
Perched above a sweeping bend in the River Wye, Ross-on-Wye is a historic market town and a proud… Perched above a sweeping bend in the River Wye, Ross-on-Wye is a historic market town and a proud gateway to the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Prices from:
£100.00
Families | Dogs | Groups
Broom Hill Retreat
Discover Broom Hill Retreat: luxury glamping (carriages Daisy & Doris) & The Annex in Royal Forest… Discover Broom Hill Retreat: luxury glamping (carriages Daisy & Doris) & The Annex in Royal Forest of Dean. Enjoy nature with home comforts, hot tubs & more!
Events awarded Ross-on-Wye
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Families | Foodies | Groups | Accessible
Bands in the Park - Sunday Afternoons
Dates:
17th May 2026 - 17th May 2026
Live music every Sunday at the Bandstand in Ross-on-Wye. Free for all to attend! Live music every Sunday at the Bandstand in Ross-on-Wye. Free for all to attend!
Families | Foodies | Groups | Accessible
Vegan Market
Dates:
14th Jun 2026 - 14th Jun 2026
Market for anyone who loves high-quality street food, artisan bakes, and unique handmade finds.… Market for anyone who loves high-quality street food, artisan bakes, and unique handmade finds. There’s a massive variety of stalls to discover!
Families | Foodies | Groups | Accessible
Proms in the Park
Dates:
19th Jul 2026 - 19th Jul 2026
An extended afternoon of free outdoor music at the Bandstand in Ross An extended afternoon of free outdoor music at the Bandstand in Ross
Dates:
15th Aug 2026 - 16th Aug 2026
Over 20 Model Railway Layouts and Demonstrations with 7 traders Over 20 Model Railway Layouts and Demonstrations with 7 traders
Adventure | Dogs | Groups
Ross-on-Wye Walking Festival
Event Dates:
25th Sept 2026 - 27th Sept 2026
Get off the beaten track with our favourite guided walks in the Ross area…
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Families | Foodies
Christmas Fayre
Event Dates:
29th Nov 2026 - 29th Nov 2026
Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch…
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Families | Arts | Relaxation
Potter's Wheel Day Course
Event Dates:
8th Apr 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
18th Apr 2026
Spend a full day at the potter's wheel with Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Your…
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Families | Arts
Potter's Wheel Introduction Class
Event Dates:
10th Apr 2026 - 19th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
17th Apr 2026
Try your hand at the potter's wheel with a 90-minute introduction class at…
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Families | Arts | Relaxation
Potter's Wheel Weekend Course
Event Dates:
25th Apr 2026 - 28th Nov 2026
Next Event Date:
25th Apr 2026
A two-day potter's wheel course at Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Throw, trim…
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Foodies | Groups | History
Indian Tasting Menu Evening
Event Dates:
30th Apr 2026 - 30th Apr 2026
Enjoy a vibrant Indian tasting evening at The Speech House featuring…
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Families | Foodies
Ross Beer and Cider Festival
Event Dates:
2nd May 2026 - 3rd May 2026
This well-known Beer and Cider Festival will be held alongside the River…
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Foodies | Groups | History
Meet The Producer - Plumphill Farm
Event Dates:
22nd May 2026 - 22nd May 2026
Meet Deb from Plumphill Farm at this special tasting evening celebrating…
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Foodies | Groups | History
Spanish Tapas Evening
Event Dates:
25th Jun 2026 - 25th Jun 2026
A relaxed Spanish tapas night at The Speech House with Patatas Bravas,…
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Foodies | Groups | History
Greek Tasting Menu Evening
Event Dates:
22nd Jul 2026 - 22nd Jul 2026
Sun-drenched Mediterranean flavours come to The Speech House with…
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Dogs | Groups | Nature
Ross-on-Wye Walking Festival
Event Dates:
25th Sept 2026 - 27th Sept 2026
Plan a walking weekend at the Ross-on-Wye Walking Festival (25–27 Sept…
View EventExperiences Awarded Ross-on-Wye
Adventure | Dogs | Families | Groups
Canoeing on the River Wye
Canoeing is a brilliant way to see the Wye Valley’s stunning scenery and wildlife, and Way2Go… Canoeing is a brilliant way to see the Wye Valley’s stunning scenery and wildlife, and Way2Go Adventures offer a range of guided trips that are suitable for everyone, no…
Prices from:
£0.00
History
Museum Without Walls
A free augmented reality (AR) app showing the town's history across 12 different sites. A free augmented reality (AR) app showing the town's history across 12 different sites.
Prices from:
£0.00
Experiences
Vintage and Design Shopping Trail
Ross-on-Wye’s Vintage & Design Shopping Trail is a fantastic selection of sixteen specialist… Ross-on-Wye’s Vintage & Design Shopping Trail is a fantastic selection of sixteen specialist independent shops who have formed a ‘trail’.
Prices from:
£41.00
Adventure | Families | Groups
Stand-Up Paddleboarding Experience with…
Easy to learn, fun to do, Inspire2Adventure offers a Stand-up Paddleboard Experience! Suitable for… Easy to learn, fun to do, Inspire2Adventure offers a Stand-up Paddleboard Experience! Suitable for families, groups, and individuals where you can explore the River Wye on a…
Trails In Ross-on-Wye
A circular 4.8-mile walk from Walford Church to Wythall Estate Vineyard near Ross-on-Wye, with… A circular 4.8-mile walk from Walford Church to Wythall Estate Vineyard near Ross-on-Wye, with optional tour/tasting and stays.
History | Accessible
Thomas Blake Trail
Explore Ross-on-Wye's history through the life of one of its benefactors: Thomas Blake! Explore Ross-on-Wye's history through the life of one of its benefactors: Thomas Blake!
Dogs | Families | Groups | Nature | History | Relaxation
Ross-on-Wye Riverside & Town Trail
Duration: 1 Hour
Distance 2.2 Miles
Explore Ross-on-Wye with this easy riverside and town walk. Discover historic landmarks, the River… Explore Ross-on-Wye with this easy riverside and town walk. Discover historic landmarks, the River Wye, The Prospect gardens and independent shops along the way.
Explore the Coppett Hill Walk near Goodrich Castle. A 6.3-mile circular route with hilltop views,… Explore the Coppett Hill Walk near Goodrich Castle. A 6.3-mile circular route with hilltop views, woodland paths, and riverside stretches in the Wye Valley.
Offers From Ross-on-Wye
Midweek glamping discount at Bracelands Campsite Midweek glamping discount at Bracelands Campsite
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Seven Winter Wellness Weekends in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley
Post date:
13th January 2026
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