Things to do in Ross-on-Wye
If you’re looking for things to do in Ross-on-Wye, you’re in the right place. This charming market town in Herefordshire gives you the quintessential English experience.
In recent years, local travel has enjoyed an unexpected resurgence that’s the upside of many less positive happenings: from COVID travel restrictions to economic troubles, many UK travellers have chosen to explore the sights in their own notably beautiful back gardens, and been delighted at the results.
Those looking for a quintessentially British experience would be well-advised to book their stay in a market town such as Ross-on-Wye: surrounded by Herefordshire countryside, this town actually calls itself “the birthplace of British tourism”, so where better to start? Let’s explore what makes travel to this part of the world worthwhile, where to stay, and things to do in Ross-on-Wye when you’re not dedicating your time to complete and utter relaxation.
Take it outside
In scenic Herefordshire, many of the things to do in Ross-on-Wye involve the great outdoors – so whether you’re after an active adventure in this part of the world or sedate, scenic walks through the region’s valleys, there’ll be something worth leaving your cosy accommodation for. Browse Ross-on-Wye Tourism Association’s website to find out about the best walks to take (whether self-guided or led by someone with plenty of experience helping visitors to explore the area), the spots to enjoy your favourite sports and try something new, and there’s even a sensory garden to explore.
Past experiences
If places steeped in lore of the past fascinate you, you’ll want to plan your trips to town carefully: buildings from the 16th century are well worth a visit, and sites of historical interest abound. From castle ruins and a 700-year-old church to significant landmarks like the Plague Cross, you’ll need to navigate with the Ross-on-Wye town map, which also offers helpful suggestions of places to see and things to do in Ross-on-Wye.
Images: Visit Herefordshire
Dining in Ross-on-Wye
From wholesome, rustic and traditional to upmarket and fresh, local dining in Ross-on-Wye offers eating establishments for every taste.
- For a traditional pub experience at its most delicious, you could stop in at the Best Pub in West Midlands 2022, Riverside Inn in Aymestrey, or Michelin Red Guide-listed The Moody Cow in Upper Bishop.
- Keep it cosy and casual at The Greenman a pretty country pub, restaurant and hotel in an inn in the picturesque village of Fownhope.
- Indulge in fine food and wine from award-winning chefs at The Kilpeck Inn.
- In Hay-on-Wye, the South African owners of Drovers Rest Farm put their experience in outdoor cooking to good use with their ‘braai’ (barbeque) nights and Wild Feasts for a foodie experience you won’t forget.
- For inventive dining that champions local ingredients, it’s worth setting aside a Friday or Saturday night to try a three-course dinner at the Under The Nut Tree supper club. Take along your own drinks and enjoy barbeque cooking with delicious sides and salads, either under the stars or in a gorgeously cosy barn.
- For something completely different from the standard fare of countryside holidays, sample what’s on the menu of self-described Japanese Soul Food creators, Miniyaki’s: their website carries a monthly listing of where you’ll find them at pop-ups and events open to the public, so you can seek out their sweet caterpod trailer wherever it best suits you.
Whatever your idea of a relaxing break, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Ross-on-Wye, and when its old-world charm has won you over, you’ll love uncovering its newest gems. After a day of exploring the picturesque attractions nearby, retreat back to your own private country home at Chelsea Parkfields. With the entire property at your disposal, you can relax in comfort with your chosen guests, free from the distractions of the outside world. Isn’t that what holidays are meant to be all about?