Old Forge cottage is ideally situated to explore this amazing area and all that the Wye Valley, Forest of Dean and Herefordshire have to offer. From stunning scenery, historic castles, quaint towns, peregrine falcon spotting and numerous activities to suit all ages, two of our favourites are canoeing and cider tasting.
There are so many beautiful places to explore locally, whether you want to take in the scenery, visit a castle, peruse the picturesque market towns and villages or see the medieval Mappa Mundi at Hereford Cathedral. It is also the perfect base for those looking for something more strenuous or adventurous. There are gardens, farm parks, race courses, heritage sites, spas, golf courses and a wide variety of activity centres all located within 30 minutes drive.
Herefordshire is also renowned for its fantastic food, with excellent local farm shops and gastro pubs all within striking distance.
Things To Do
There are an abundance of things to keep you entertained in the beautiful Herefordshire countryside, a few of these are listed below
Action and adventure - Viking games (Friends of ours) - great family fun, they also run Paintballing and laserclays at Battlelands. Forest of Dean, Yat Rock, Puzzle Wood Go Ape, family cycling trails/mountain biking (Including Hire). Wyenotadventure for gorge walking, abseiling, rock climbing and full adventure days, indoor climbing at the Boulder barn and outdoor climbing at Symonds Yat.
On the water - Canoeing/Kayaking/stand up paddle boarding are one option and friends of ours - The River Wye is one of the most un spoilt and attractive rivers in the UK.
Fishing (River Wye or Coarse) – We can offer half price Fishing at our lakes at nearby Trippenkennet Farm
Cider and wine tours - Three Choirs vineyard, Weston's cider, Ty Gwyn Cider
Places to Visit
The towns of Ross-on-Wye, Monmouth, Hereford and Ledbury are picturesque markets towns, each has its own charm and there is plenty to see and do, be it shopping, eating out or having a relaxing coffee and watching the world go by.
There are many places to visit outside of the bustling markets towns, a few of these are listed below .
Castles and historical - Goodrich, (Seen in picture) Eastnor, Raglan, Usk and Skenfrith , Tintern Abbey - plus many more, Mappa Mundi - One of the worlds oldest maps
Perfect for children - Maze and Butterfly farm (Symonds yat) Open Farm - Ledbury Minature Railway - Forest of Dean, Clearwell caves.
Eat & Drink
You really will be spoilt for choice with all the local eateries. Quaint pubs and contemporary restaurants within a 5 minute walk from the door, cosy riverside venues and Michelin star restaurants within a short drive.
Some of our personal favourite recommendations-
No3 -3 Gloucester Road, Ross. One of our favourites for a special occasions.
Leonards at 39 – 39 High st, Ross, same owners as No3, serving tapas, burgers and amazing cocktails!
The Royal – Royal Parade, Ross , best for families and great views of the river.
The Saracens Head - Symonds Yat, great for post walk drinks by the river and a bite to eat.
Harewood End Inn - Harewood end (Approx 4 miles from Ross) country pub that serves THE BEST Sunday lunches.
Garway Moon Inn - Garway Common (Approx 8 miles dog and child friendly, faces Garway common for walks, playing games, small park for children, good beer and local ciders.
Beefy Boys - Award winning burgers, sit down or takeway. (14 miles away in Hereford).
Great Walks
There are miles of beautiful countryside to explore, both from the front door and those a short drive away, including the Wye Valley Walk, Three Castles and Offa’s Dyke.
For those who like a walk with a view there is the Malvern Hills and Black mountains (Skirrid, Sugar Loaf, Cats back are some of our favourites).
Holiday Cottage in Ross on Wye
The options are endless...discover the many stunning walks the area has to offer, cycle the tracks in the Forest of Dean, visit a wealth of castles and historical places, immerse yourself in the many activities to hand or relax with a famous Herefordshire cider.....the choice is yours.