Coppett Hill Walk

Start Point: Goodrich Castle Car Park
Distance: 6.3 miles (10.1 km) | Grade: Moderate
Refreshments & Toilets: Available at Goodrich Castle café. Pubs nearby in Goodrich and Kerne Bridge.

Discover a walk that weaves together epic views, rich history, and riverside serenity on this circular route from Goodrich Castle to Coppett Hill and back again.

Why Walk This Trail?

This varied route offers a little bit of everything – woodland climbs, panoramic hilltop views, peaceful riverside paths and a touch of mystery with ancient ruins and hidden follies. It's a brilliant option for nature lovers, history buffs and those looking to stretch their legs somewhere truly special.

Highlights Along the Way

Goodrich Castle: Start your walk at one of the finest and best-preserved Norman castles in the UK. Perched high above the Wye, it’s the perfect place to begin your adventure.

Dry Arch & Kerne Bridge: Climb past the intriguing “Dry Arch” and look out over the elegant Kerne Bridge – a picture-perfect crossing built in 1828 to serve the Forest’s old mining routes.

Coppett Hill Common: Ascend to open hilltop views from one of Herefordshire’s largest commons. Look out for the trig point (188m) and the stone remains of “The Folly” – once home to a rabbit warrener!

Caldwell Rocks & Peregrine Falcons: Drop down through ancient woodland and riverside fields beneath the dramatic cliffs of Caldwell Rocks, a known peregrine falcon nesting site.

St Margaret’s Church & Welsh Bicknor: A detour to this tiny riverside church is well worth the extra steps before returning via peaceful lanes with sweeping views of the Wye Valley.

Good to Know

The trail includes a number of stiles and gates, some sections close to the riverbank, and parts that may be muddy in wet weather. Walking boots recommended. Dogs welcome, but keep them close around livestock.

Download the PDF route map here
Discover more self-guided walks here
See nearby places to eat & drink here

If you are interested in more walks around Ross-on-Wye, visit the Walking in Ross website here.