Things to do in Ross-on-Wye
Whether you are on holiday with the family, travelling as a couple, catching up with friends or flying solo, there are many things to do in Ross-on-Wye and a holiday at Broadmeadow Touring Park provides the opportunity to enjoy them all. Here are some of our favourites;
1. Visit Symonds Yat
This sleepy village is a popular tourist destination thanks to its stunning riverside setting, woodlands and limestone outcrop which rises majestically 500 feet above the river. There are numerous walks in the area, rock-climbing for adrenaline junkies and the ancient Ye Old Ferrie Inn, which dates back to the 15th Century and has been voted one of the UK’s top 20 waterside pubs.
2. Amaze-ing Fun!
Planted in 1977, the Jubilee Maze at Symonds Yat is one of our favourites things to do in Ross-on-Wye. The maze is one of Britain’s most well-known complete with a temple centrepiece and over one kilometre of hedges. Not so keen to get lost? Then there’s a handy viewing platform to keep an eye on things!
3. Experience The Forest of Dean
An area of 42 square miles of woodland, the magical Forest of Dean is one of the last remaining ancient woodlands in England and is a truly special place. There are centuries of history to uncover here, each one having left its mark from hunting to mining. Walking amongst the trees, the sense of history is almost tangible and as a place where England meets Wales, it is an area to be marvelled.
Explore this area of timeless beauty with the Sculpture Trail, Dean Forest Railway or for more of an adventure, take on Go Ape!
4. Explore Ross-on-Wye
Right on our doorstep, Ross-on-Wye is a pretty place to while away a few hours with plenty of character and a high street packed with independent shops. A former market town, there is plenty of history here with the much-loved Market House, dating back to the 16th Century, serving as the focal point. Scenically beautiful, Ross-on-Wye has attracted visitors since the 18th Century and is known as the Birthplace of British Tourism – come and find out why.
5. Get on the Water
The magnificent River Wye runs through this entire region and no holiday would be truly complete without some time spent on the water. As the river is varied, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it, with rapids to kayak down and calm, tranquil waters to row on or swim and cool off in on a hot summer’s day. Enjoy a river cruise to admire the riverbanks and you may even be rewarded with a colourful flash of a kingfisher!
6. Venture Underground
Whilst there’s much to see and do above ground, what lies beneath is equally fascinating as, despite its natural beauty, the Wye Valley has a rich and industrious mining history. We highly recommend taking some time to explore the fascinating Clearwell Caves where you can learn about the mining industry here which dates back over thousands of years.
7. See Goodrich Castle
The Wye Valley is home to many historic houses and castles, some of which are said to be among the finest and best preserved of all English medieval castles. One such place is the magnificent Goodrich Castle which dates back to 1160 and is an absolute must-see for any history lover. A Norman medieval castle, established to run as a key location between Monmouth and Ross-on-Wye, it was the scene of one of the hardest fought battles of the 1642 Civil War and is considered by many to be one of the best examples of English military architecture.
8. Lace up your Boots
Whether it’s meanders along the River Wye or hiking up hills in search of panoramic vistas, one of the best ways to take in the area is on foot. Walking trails in the area are varied and plentiful offering something for everyone including families, experienced hikers and those holidaying with dogs. From circular trails to strenuous days out, lace up your boots and experience this beautiful area first-hand.
Take a look at our blog on our top walks in and around Ross-on-Wye.
9. King Arthur's Cave
With the entire region steeped in history, myths and legends, it will come as no surprise to discover that King Arthur is rumoured to have spent some time here. There is a cave named after him in fact and whether the great man himself was here or not, it’s well worth a visit. Tucked away in a mystical nature reserve full of interesting cave systems blanketed by historic woodland, this limestone cave can be found at the foot of a low cliff and is shrouded in superstition. We highly recommend visiting!
10. Eastnor Castle and Arboretum
This stunning Victorian home, owned by the Hervey-Bathurst family, is surrounded by an exotic arboretum, beautiful deer park and man-made lake. Lose yourself in the conifers and plantations which span the fields and hills whilst marvelling at the magnificent collection of cedars, one of the largest in the British Isles.
Whilst there are plenty of things to do in Ross-on-Wye, hours can easily be spent at Broadmeadow itself, strolling around the lake, relaxing on a summer evening and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Why not search for your next holiday with us? We hope to see you soon!