Nature
Through The Local Lens: Philip Jarrett
Post date:
2nd August 2026
Through the Local Lens: with photographer Philip Jarrett. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
- Locations
- Wye Valley
Wye Valley
A place to wander, paddle, picnic and pause
The Wye Valley is one of the most beautiful and accessible stretches of countryside in the UK. Following the River Wye along the England–Wales border, it’s known for its dramatic river scenery, beautiful woodland, pretty market towns and peaceful walking trails.
A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Wye Valley is the kind of place people return to year after year for the views, the space to breathe, and the feeling that time slows down a little here.
Something for every kind of visitor
There’s no one way to experience the Wye Valley and that’s a big part of the appeal. Some come for long riverside walks, birdwatching and peaceful moments by the water. Others arrive with bikes, boots, canoes or paddleboards, ready to explore by land or river. You can stop off at a vineyard, hop on a heritage railway, book a food experience, or just find a bench and watch the world drift by.
Places worth making a day of
This stretch of the Wye is packed with places to explore. Head to Symonds Yat Rock for one of the best views in the country or visit the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Tintern Abbey just down the river. Stop in at towns like Monmouth, Redbrook, Ross-on-Wye, Brockweir and Llandogo - full of character, independent shops, and good places to eat.
Stay by the river or in the hills
The Wye Valley has no shortage of places to stay, from boutique B&Bs and riverside cottages to quirky glamping spots, hotels, cabins and campsites. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a walking holiday, or a family break, there’s something for every pace and every budget.
Find your own way through the Wye Valley
Plan your visit with our walking and cycling guides, watersports info, places to eat and places to stay - and discover your own favourite spot in the valley.
Businesses related to Wye Valley
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
Inspire2Adventure
Stand-up paddleboarding, gorge scrambling, guided kayaking and rock climbing in the Wye Valley and… Stand-up paddleboarding, gorge scrambling, guided kayaking and rock climbing in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. Join us for an introduction, a half-day or full day of…
Prices from:
£130.00
Families
Dinglewood Retreat
Escape to Dinglewood Retreat, where a luxury cabin with hot tub and charming shepherd’s hut offer… Escape to Dinglewood Retreat, where a luxury cabin with hot tub and charming shepherd’s hut offer the perfect countryside getaway.
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
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.
Groups | Families
Big House Holiday Lets
Beautiful self-catering, large holiday homes in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. All easily… Beautiful self-catering, large holiday homes in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. All easily accommodate large groups of up to 26 people.
History | Groups | Arts
Tintern Abbey
When we talk about British architectural icons, they don’t come much more iconic than Tintern… When we talk about British architectural icons, they don’t come much more iconic than Tintern Abbey: a Gothic masterpiece and Romantic symbol of the sublime.
Families | Groups | History
Raglan Castle
Explore Raglan Castle – a striking fortress rising above Monmouthshire's rolling countryside.… Explore Raglan Castle – a striking fortress rising above Monmouthshire's rolling countryside. Discover its history, impressive towers, and dramatic ruins, just a short trip…
Adventure | Families | Groups
Borderlands Outdoor
Outdoor Training and Adventure in the Wye Valley & South Wales Borderlands. Climbing, Caving,… Outdoor Training and Adventure in the Wye Valley & South Wales Borderlands. Climbing, Caving, Archery, Bushcraft, Navigation Training and more
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…
Dogs | Groups | Families
Monnington House
Monnington House Garden Cottage and The Cider offer 5 Star accommodation for large groups and… Monnington House Garden Cottage and The Cider offer 5 Star accommodation for large groups and multi-generational families in the beautiful Wye Valley.
Prices from:
£70.00
Superb contemporary open-plan apartments opening out onto stunning valley views. Walk straight into… Superb contemporary open-plan apartments opening out onto stunning valley views. Walk straight into the Forest of Dean. Explore Symonds Yat Rock and the Wye Valley.
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…
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 | Groups | Nature
Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo
Indoor Butterfly Zoo at Symonds Yat with tropical species, life-cycle displays and close-up… Indoor Butterfly Zoo at Symonds Yat with tropical species, life-cycle displays and close-up encounters. Open year-round in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley.
Families | Groups | History
Chepstow Castle
Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow… Beautifully preserved and stretching out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, Chepstow Castle’s beauty is matched only by its historical significance.
Events awarded Wye Valley
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Date From:
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Families | Groups | Arts | Nature
Summer Sculpture Exhibition 2026
Dates:
24th May 2026 - 13th Sept 2026
Next Event Date:
15th Aug 2026
Showcasing over 54 artists and 146 sculptures. The Summer Sculpture Exhibition is designed as an… Showcasing over 54 artists and 146 sculptures. The Summer Sculpture Exhibition is designed as an experience, offering space to slow down, reflect & engage.
Dates:
22nd Aug 2026 - 23rd Aug 2026
Over 20 Model Railway Layouts and Demonstrations with traders Over 20 Model Railway Layouts and Demonstrations with traders
Adventure | Dogs | Groups | Nature
Ross-on-Wye Walking Festival
Dates:
25th Sept 2026 - 27th Sept 2026
Get off the beaten track with our favourite guided walks in the Ross area with great leaders and… Get off the beaten track with our favourite guided walks in the Ross area with great leaders and stunning scenery. Three days of walks for all abilities and a diverse range…
Families | Foodies
Christmas Fayre
Dates:
29th Nov 2026 - 29th Nov 2026
Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch from one of the hot food… Kick off Christmas shopping by exploring over 80 stalls! Grab some lunch from one of the hot food vendors to enjoy alongside variety live music and street entertainment. For…
Families | Arts
Potter's Wheel Day Course
Event Dates:
8th Apr 2026 - 5th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
15th Aug 2026
Spend a day at the potter's wheel with Eastnor Pottery, Ledbury. Your own…
View Event
Families | Groups | Arts
Summer Make and Take
Event Dates:
29th Jul 2026 - 26th Aug 2026
Next Event Date:
19th Aug 2026
Get crafty at Chepstow Castle during the summer holidays!
View Event
Families | Groups | History
Brother Thomas the Cellarer
Event Dates:
1st Aug 2026 - 30th Dec 2026
Next Event Date:
19th Sept 2026
Step back in time with Brother Thomas and learn what life was like as a…
View Event
Families | Groups | History
Falconry at the Abbey
Event Dates:
8th Aug 2026 - 11th Oct 2026
Next Event Date:
10th Oct 2026
Come to Tintern Abbey to see majestic birds of prey in flight.
View Event
Families | Arts | Relaxation
Outdoor cinema - The Greatest Showman (2017, PG)
Event Dates:
15th Aug 2026 - 15th Aug 2026
Come down to Ross Bandstand for a free outdoor screening of The Greatest…
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Families | Arts
Happy Circus
Event Dates:
16th Aug 2026 - 17th Aug 2026
Join Happy Circus on Sunday 16th August for an afternoon sunshine and…
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Families | Groups
Monmouthshire Show
Event Dates:
16th Aug 2026 - 16th Aug 2026
A one day agricultural event with a packed schedule of music,…
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Groups | Arts
Comedy Club with Paul McCaffrey
Event Dates:
21st Aug 2026 - 21st Aug 2026
Star of BBC Three’s Impractical Jokers and Russell Howard’s Good News,…
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Families | Groups | History
Resting at the Abbey during the Wars of the Roses 1471
Event Dates:
22nd Aug 2026 - 23rd Aug 2026
Next Event Date:
22nd Aug 2026
1471, a company of Archers and their families rest at the Abbey in order…
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Groups | Arts
Summer Party with Two Man Ting
Event Dates:
22nd Aug 2026 - 22nd Aug 2026
Two Man Ting plus Street Food Vendor “ Spice up the Valleys” The launch of…
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Families | Groups | History
The Greatest Knight
Event Dates:
29th Aug 2026 - 31st Aug 2026
Next Event Date:
29th Aug 2026
To celebrate the life of one of Tintern Abbey’s greatest patrons, we…
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Foodies | Families | Groups
Monnow Bridge Summer Night Market
Event Dates:
29th Aug 2026 - 29th Aug 2026
A wonderful evening of local food, drink & entertainment.
View EventExperiences Awarded Wye Valley
Prices from:
£40.00
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature
Bird of Prey Safari Experience in the Forest of…
Experience a Bird of Prey Safari in the Forest of Dean, one of the UK’s most remarkable strongholds… Experience a Bird of Prey Safari in the Forest of Dean, one of the UK’s most remarkable strongholds for birds of prey.
Prices from:
£40.00
Adventure | Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean Nightjar Safari in the Forest of Dean
Prices from:
£35.00
Adventure | Dogs | Families | Groups
1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat
1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat 1 day canoe trip - Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat
Prices from:
£35.00
Adventure | Dogs | Families | Groups
Half day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat
Half day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat Half day canoe trip - Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat
Itineraries Awarded Wye Valley
Families | Groups | Nature | Relaxation
A 3-Day Spring Itinerary in the Forest of Dean &…
Duration: 3 Days, 2 nights
A 3-day spring itinerary in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, including outdoor walks, local… A 3-day spring itinerary in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, including outdoor walks, local cafés, nature spots and relaxing stays.
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History
An arty long weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye…
Duration: 4 Days 3 Nights
Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative… Enjoy an arty weekend in the Forest of Dean & Wye Valley with sculpture trails, galleries, creative workshops, and inspiring places to visit.
Dogs | Families | Groups | Arts | History
An arty mid week break in the Forest of Dean &…
Duration: 5 Days 4 Nights
A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative… A 5-day arty mid-week break exploring sculpture trails, galleries, Tintern Abbey, and creative spots in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley.
Trails In Wye Valley
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.
Offers From Wye Valley
Adventure | Families | Groups
Great British Summer Savings 2026
Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo Great British Summer Savings 2026 Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo Great British Summer Savings 2026
Adventure | Families | Groups
Visitor Centre Summers Savings 2026
Summer savings, entry prices reduced for the Adventure Golf, Miniature Golf and Butterfly Zoo. Summer savings, entry prices reduced for the Adventure Golf, Miniature Golf and Butterfly Zoo.
Adventure | Families | Groups
Visitor Centre Summers Savings 2026
Summer savings, entry prices reduced for the Roman Miniature Golf, Indoor Adventure Golf and… Summer savings, entry prices reduced for the Roman Miniature Golf, Indoor Adventure Golf and Butterfly Zoo.
Our latest Wye Valley blogs
Explore three historic days out in the Wye Valley and Monmouthshire, including Tintern Abbey, Chepstow Castle and Raglan Castle, perfect for a summer break
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Through the Local Lens: with photographer Neil Baker. See why he loves the Forest of Dean, top tips and must visit places.
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