John And Louisa’s guidebook
Sightseeing
'Yat' means gateway, this was the gateway to Wales from England. Beautiful walks, scenery, you can see for miles around from the view point, RNIB have a station here for viewing nesting perigean falcons. Good pub (Saracens Head), lovely people, good food.
Also good for caving, climbing and canoeing. All of these need to be booked in advance.
191 locals recommend
Symonds Yat
'Yat' means gateway, this was the gateway to Wales from England. Beautiful walks, scenery, you can see for miles around from the view point, RNIB have a station here for viewing nesting perigean falcons. Good pub (Saracens Head), lovely people, good food.
Also good for caving, climbing and canoeing. All of these need to be booked in advance.
Gives a very different perspective to the valley. take a picnic and have a lovely day!
https://www.canoethewye.co.uk/?gclid=CjwKCAjw07qDBhBxEiwA6pPbHoLBFJbMTPKs1zm8DeSVLRRD-SuedgZdsQd0rVgfPesNFN8FbiMkWxoCqmUQAvD_BwE
http://www.canoehire.com
http://www.wyecanoes.com
28 locals recommend
Canoe the Wye
Gives a very different perspective to the valley. take a picnic and have a lovely day!
https://www.canoethewye.co.uk/?gclid=CjwKCAjw07qDBhBxEiwA6pPbHoLBFJbMTPKs1zm8DeSVLRRD-SuedgZdsQd0rVgfPesNFN8FbiMkWxoCqmUQAvD_BwE
http://www.canoehire.com
http://www.wyecanoes.com
Guidedmountain
Glencoe LaneFor the more adventurous...
https://www.guidedmountain.co.uk/contact.htm
really lovely day out for the whole family. Take a picnic and take your time cycling round the 12 mile trail in The beautiful Forest of Dean. Look out for wild boar! Henry VIII's favourite shooting forest!
https://pedalabikeaway.co.uk
97 locals recommend
Pedalabikeaway
New Roadreally lovely day out for the whole family. Take a picnic and take your time cycling round the 12 mile trail in The beautiful Forest of Dean. Look out for wild boar! Henry VIII's favourite shooting forest!
https://pedalabikeaway.co.uk
A magical place! Used by many film makers for its enchanting, mysterious, beautiful atmosphere. Don't wonder round aimlessly though! To get the most out of read a bit of background and set yourselves the challenges of finding the bridges, dead ends, benches etc. An unforgettable day out
https://www.puzzlewood.net
159 locals recommend
Puzzlewood
Perrygrove RoadA magical place! Used by many film makers for its enchanting, mysterious, beautiful atmosphere. Don't wonder round aimlessly though! To get the most out of read a bit of background and set yourselves the challenges of finding the bridges, dead ends, benches etc. An unforgettable day out
https://www.puzzlewood.net
Abergavenny, Wales, so a 45 minute drive, but worth it. Wear good boots and climb to the top where you will be rewarded with great taking views. You can see The Sugar Loaf from Deepdean, turn right out of our track, drive until you see the Black mountains, the Sugar Loaf is clearly visible, a perfect mountain shape, just like a loaf of sugar!
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sugarloaf-and-usk-valley
94 locals recommend
Sugar Loaf
Abergavenny, Wales, so a 45 minute drive, but worth it. Wear good boots and climb to the top where you will be rewarded with great taking views. You can see The Sugar Loaf from Deepdean, turn right out of our track, drive until you see the Black mountains, the Sugar Loaf is clearly visible, a perfect mountain shape, just like a loaf of sugar!
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sugarloaf-and-usk-valley
English Heritage site with a great little cafe. A fabulous castle for young children, small and easy to envisage life in Medieval times. Plenty of events to get involved in.
99 locals recommend
Goodrich Castle
Castle LaneEnglish Heritage site with a great little cafe. A fabulous castle for young children, small and easy to envisage life in Medieval times. Plenty of events to get involved in.
A spectacular abbey, a bit of a drive but a lovely drive following the river, good pub next door, those monks knew what they were they doing!
167 locals recommend
Tintern Abbey / Abaty Tyndryn
A spectacular abbey, a bit of a drive but a lovely drive following the river, good pub next door, those monks knew what they were they doing!
If you are into up cycling and are looking for ideas, this is a must for you. It is very expensive but really fun to look around and a great place for a wedding present, or a special treat for yourself.
19 locals recommend
Baileys Home
If you are into up cycling and are looking for ideas, this is a must for you. It is very expensive but really fun to look around and a great place for a wedding present, or a special treat for yourself.
Highnam Court
A beautiful garden, check opening days.
https://www.wyevalleygreenway.org/about
An experience very well worth having. Go by bike or on foot. This tunnel is the second longest cycling tunnel in the UK.
Tidenham Tunnel
Bishton Lanehttps://www.wyevalleygreenway.org/about
An experience very well worth having. Go by bike or on foot. This tunnel is the second longest cycling tunnel in the UK.
City/town information
Beautiful market town, many independent shops, go for a traditional afternoon tea at The Feathers.
138 locals recommend
Ledbury
Beautiful market town, many independent shops, go for a traditional afternoon tea at The Feathers.
History of Monmouth
Monmouth has its origins in Roman times when a small Roman garrison was stationed here.
The settlement was called Blestium and local archaeologists have found various pieces of pottery, coins, and jewellery from that period.
Monmouth takes its name from the River Monnow, a tributary of the Wye.
The area was managed during the eleventh and twelfth century by French lords and a castle was built with views over the surrounding countryside.
A Benedictine priory was also founded. In the thirteenth century a fortified bridge was built at the western end of the town, one of only three such fortified river crossing in Europe.
By 1600 Monmouth was a wealthy, bustling town, with potters, tanners, nail makers and cappers boosting the local economy.
The famous Monmouth cap was worn with pride at the Battle of Agincourt, which is appropriate as Henry V, the illustrious soldier King, was born at Monmouth Castle in 1387.
As a border town, Monmouth was involved in intermittent border warfare and skirmishes.
The population also suffered from periodic flooding of the two rivers, and the ravages of the Black Death; but by about 1450 the street plan of the centre had evolved and is recognisable today.
In 1605 James I gave the town a Charter in the form of letters patent. It was granted in order that the town and borough should "at all perpetual future times.... be and remain a town and borough of Peace and Quiet, to the example and terror of the wicked and reward of the good".
The castle changed hands three times during the Civil War and, following its final capture by the Parliamentarians, most of the fortifications were demolished. Great Castle House, built in 1673 by the third Marquis of Worcester, is now the home of the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers (Militia), the oldest regiment in the British Army.
The Shire Hall, built in 1724, dominates Agincourt Square in the centre of town, and presides over the present day market, a much smaller version of its medieval precursor.
From 1660-1860 Monmouth enjoyed a time of prosperity, with all sorts of entertainment, including plays and horse racing, linked to the times of the local Assizes.
In 1802 Nelson visited the town and gave his approval to the Naval Temple built in his honour on the Kymin.
The Rolls family lived just outside the town and Charles Rolls' mother, Lady Llangattock was a great admirer of Nelson. She collected many memorabilia of the famous Admiral, and bequeathed it to the town in 1924, which may be seen at the museum.
John Frost and other leaders of the Chartist rebellion (1839) were tried for treason in the Shire Hall.
In the nineteenth century, thanks to Wordsworth and many other poets and artists, the number of visitors to the Wye Valley greatly increased.
Today the rivers, the beautiful countryside and some fine Georgian and Victorian architecture are still here for everyone to enjoy.
152 locals recommend
Monmouth
History of Monmouth
Monmouth has its origins in Roman times when a small Roman garrison was stationed here.
The settlement was called Blestium and local archaeologists have found various pieces of pottery, coins, and jewellery from that period.
Monmouth takes its name from the River Monnow, a tributary of the Wye.
The area was managed during the eleventh and twelfth century by French lords and a castle was built with views over the surrounding countryside.
A Benedictine priory was also founded. In the thirteenth century a fortified bridge was built at the western end of the town, one of only three such fortified river crossing in Europe.
By 1600 Monmouth was a wealthy, bustling town, with potters, tanners, nail makers and cappers boosting the local economy.
The famous Monmouth cap was worn with pride at the Battle of Agincourt, which is appropriate as Henry V, the illustrious soldier King, was born at Monmouth Castle in 1387.
As a border town, Monmouth was involved in intermittent border warfare and skirmishes.
The population also suffered from periodic flooding of the two rivers, and the ravages of the Black Death; but by about 1450 the street plan of the centre had evolved and is recognisable today.
In 1605 James I gave the town a Charter in the form of letters patent. It was granted in order that the town and borough should "at all perpetual future times.... be and remain a town and borough of Peace and Quiet, to the example and terror of the wicked and reward of the good".
The castle changed hands three times during the Civil War and, following its final capture by the Parliamentarians, most of the fortifications were demolished. Great Castle House, built in 1673 by the third Marquis of Worcester, is now the home of the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers (Militia), the oldest regiment in the British Army.
The Shire Hall, built in 1724, dominates Agincourt Square in the centre of town, and presides over the present day market, a much smaller version of its medieval precursor.
From 1660-1860 Monmouth enjoyed a time of prosperity, with all sorts of entertainment, including plays and horse racing, linked to the times of the local Assizes.
In 1802 Nelson visited the town and gave his approval to the Naval Temple built in his honour on the Kymin.
The Rolls family lived just outside the town and Charles Rolls' mother, Lady Llangattock was a great admirer of Nelson. She collected many memorabilia of the famous Admiral, and bequeathed it to the town in 1924, which may be seen at the museum.
John Frost and other leaders of the Chartist rebellion (1839) were tried for treason in the Shire Hall.
In the nineteenth century, thanks to Wordsworth and many other poets and artists, the number of visitors to the Wye Valley greatly increased.
Today the rivers, the beautiful countryside and some fine Georgian and Victorian architecture are still here for everyone to enjoy.
A bit of a drive, 27 miles, 45 minute drive but if you don't come to this area often with a visit.
Look out for lamp posts, recognise any? - avid readers of children literature may know why!
78 locals recommend
Great Malvern
A bit of a drive, 27 miles, 45 minute drive but if you don't come to this area often with a visit.
Look out for lamp posts, recognise any? - avid readers of children literature may know why!
Our closed town, Ross-on-Wye claims to be the "birth place of British tourism" In 1745 Dr John Egerton started taking friends down the river on boat trips. Ross-on-Wye has many pubs, little shops and worth a walk around.
132 locals recommend
Ross-on-Wye
Our closed town, Ross-on-Wye claims to be the "birth place of British tourism" In 1745 Dr John Egerton started taking friends down the river on boat trips. Ross-on-Wye has many pubs, little shops and worth a walk around.
Food scene
No3 Restaurant
3 Gloucester Rdhttps://no3rossonwye.com.
https://cottageofcontent.co.uk
One of my favourites, really cosy pub, ask to sit in bar area if there is space, its much cosier!
23 locals recommend
Cottage Of Content
https://cottageofcontent.co.uk
One of my favourites, really cosy pub, ask to sit in bar area if there is space, its much cosier!
https://severnandwye.co.uk
We love going here for brunch. Lovey fish mongers too, great fresh fish!
32 locals recommend
Severn & Wye Smokery
https://severnandwye.co.uk
We love going here for brunch. Lovey fish mongers too, great fresh fish!
http://www.thehostelrieatgoodrich.co.uk
Lovely pub, reasonable food, lovey pub garden. Close to Goodrich Castle so you cold combine both
18 locals recommend
The Hostelrie at Goodrich
http://www.thehostelrieatgoodrich.co.uk
Lovely pub, reasonable food, lovey pub garden. Close to Goodrich Castle so you cold combine both
https://thepottingshedwhitchurch.com
Quirky place to eat, worth a try
9 locals recommend
The Potting Shed Whitchurch
B4164https://thepottingshedwhitchurch.com
Quirky place to eat, worth a try
https://www.forestbakehouse.co.uk
DO NOT GO if you are on a diet! Amazing bread, pastries, a few cakes. Not open all day, everyday. They are open Wednesday - Saturday 9am -2.00pm
really worth going, so worth the calories!
8 locals recommend
The Forest Bakehouse
Church Roadhttps://www.forestbakehouse.co.uk
DO NOT GO if you are on a diet! Amazing bread, pastries, a few cakes. Not open all day, everyday. They are open Wednesday - Saturday 9am -2.00pm
really worth going, so worth the calories!
Waitrose, is Waitrose, so lovely food, unusual ingredients. Our nearest is in Monmouth, 12 miles away.
26 locals recommend
Waitrose & Partners
110-114 Monnow StWaitrose, is Waitrose, so lovely food, unusual ingredients. Our nearest is in Monmouth, 12 miles away.
Morrisons
1 Station StGood for the basics, in Rosss-on-Wye, plenty of parking
Good quality local meat, game and chicken. Local wild boar available occasional. If you would like some its always worth asking Tim if he has any.
Hanks’ Meat & Game LTD
45 Broad StGood quality local meat, game and chicken. Local wild boar available occasional. If you would like some its always worth asking Tim if he has any.
Our little organic shop in Ross, nice things but pricey
http://field-fayre.co.uk
Field Fayre The Organic Store
18-19 Broad StOur little organic shop in Ross, nice things but pricey
http://field-fayre.co.uk
You will receive a warm welcome, you will be well looks after and you will have some delicious food! One of or regulars.
36 locals recommend
The Moody Cow
You will receive a warm welcome, you will be well looks after and you will have some delicious food! One of or regulars.
Run by our daughters' friend, a great place for breakfast, light lunch and afternoon tea. Lovely views of the Wye and only a five minute drive away. Very close to Goodrich Castle and The Hostlerie if yo fancy a pint.
Hen & Dot Cafe at Flanesford Priory
Run by our daughters' friend, a great place for breakfast, light lunch and afternoon tea. Lovely views of the Wye and only a five minute drive away. Very close to Goodrich Castle and The Hostlerie if yo fancy a pint.
Our closest gastro pub, nice outside space. Under new management and we haven't tried it yet but heard good things.
13 locals recommend
The Mill Race
Our closest gastro pub, nice outside space. Under new management and we haven't tried it yet but heard good things.
Voted the best fish and chips in Herefordshire and very close! Run by Graham and Sharon (Audrey is Sharon's mum) Be sure to mention you are staying with John and Louisa, you might get an extra chip!
Audrey's Fish Bar
2 Tudor RiseVoted the best fish and chips in Herefordshire and very close! Run by Graham and Sharon (Audrey is Sharon's mum) Be sure to mention you are staying with John and Louisa, you might get an extra chip!
Great little country pub, lots of atmosphere, fires in the winter but like so many places under new management and we have not been yet but heard good things.
28 locals recommend
The Loughpool
Great little country pub, lots of atmosphere, fires in the winter but like so many places under new management and we have not been yet but heard good things.
Royal Hotel
Go on a sunny day and sit on the balcony for a fabulous view.
Best pub bar in town, well kept beers, good wines and a good selection of whisky
13 locals recommend
The King's Head Hotel
8 High StBest pub bar in town, well kept beers, good wines and a good selection of whisky
Nice place for a Sunday roast, I would choose to sit in the bar rather than the restaurant.
34 locals recommend
The Greenman
Nice place for a Sunday roast, I would choose to sit in the bar rather than the restaurant.