Introduction

A fantastic two day trip with an overnight stop in the beautiful market town of Ross on Wye.

You will arrive at our office at Symonds Yat West (there is a large car park which is pay and display. Please note the machine will only accept pound coins). You will be kitted out with all relevant equipment, given a friendly safety briefing and all the information you need to enjoy your time on the river. We will transport you the 30 minute journey in our mini bus to Hoarwithy to start your two day river adventure.

Day one…..Hoarwithy to Ross on Wye…..
Distance: 11 miles – Duration: 3-4 hours.

This fantastic two day trip starts in the picturesque village of Hoarwithy, which features the unusual Italianate byzantine church. This trip takes you through beautiful unspoilt countryside, reminiscent of rural France. The river meanders its way down towards Hole in the Wall, landing is discouraged in this area to avoid disturbing the fish fry in shallow waters. A few miles further on, as you approach Backney Bridge, there are places to stop on shingle banks on the right hand side of the river. As you near the end of your first day the iconic image of Ross on Wye church spire comes into view.

As this trip goes through rural countryside there is nowhere to stop for provisions, so it is essential that you have enough water and food for the journey.

There are a few camping options in Ross on Wye -Ross on Wye Rowing Club – RRC booking page, The White Lion Pub – Telephone 01989 562785 and Castle Lodge – Telephone 01989 562234.

As you leave the gorge behind, you’ll pass under Huntsham Bridge, which is about 25 minutes from our landing jetty back at Symonds Yat West.

Day Two….Ross on Wye to Symonds Yat….
Distance: 15 miles Duration: full day 5-6 hours.

This trip is truly beautiful and the river and it’s banks are alive with wonderful wildlife, you may spot herons, kingfishers, otters and even leaping salmon as you meander down the river. As you paddle downstream there is a wonderful view of the spectacularly elevated Goodrich Castle, your next landmark is Kerne Bridge.

If you’ve worked up an appetite and forgotten to bring a picnic there is a great little burger bar/cafe/pub at Lydbrook launch site to stop for lunch or buy refreshments and WC facilities.

You will then be entering the stunning Wye Valley Gorge and will pass under Symonds Yat Rock which is famous for peregrine falcons. On the right hand side of the river there is a shingle beach which is the perfect place to stop for a welcome break and take in the magnificent surroundings. As you leave the gorge behind, you’ll pass under Huntsham Bridge, which is about 25 minutes from our landing jetty back at Symonds Yat West.