Introduction

A fantastic three or four day trip with an overnight stops in Holme Lacy (four day trip only), the stunning village of Hoarwithy and 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 accept pound coins only).

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 hour journey in our mini bus to Hereford to start your river adventure.

Day One – Hereford to Hoarwithy
Distance: 17 miles – Duration: 5-6 hours.

Your multi day adventure on the river will start in the ancient cathedral city of Hereford, home of the famous Mappa Mundi. As you meander downstream you will pass under numerous decorative foot and road bridges. After a enjoyable 8 mile paddle you come to Lucksall campsite, there is a floating pontoon on the left hand side of the river, there is a cafe and shop on site, If you are planning on taking this trip leisurely over 4 days, then this would be your 1st overnight stop (Lucksall Campsite Tel : 01432 870213).

From here the river meanders its way towards Capler Camp, an iron age fort on the left hand side of the river, this section of the Wye is your chance to truly escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life as you make your way to the picturesque village of Hoarwithy, which features the unusual Italianate byzantine church.

There are two campsites in Hoarwithy, Tresseck farm on the right hand bank Tel :01432 840235, there are also B&B options on this side of the river The Old Mill Tel : 01432 840602 and a great pub The New Harp Inn Tel : 01432 840900. On the left hand side you will find Lower Ruxton Farm, that also offer camping Tel : 01432 840223

Day Two – 3 day trip Hoarwithy to Ross on Wye
Distance: 11 miles – Duration: 3-4 hours.

Your second day 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 second 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

The town has a fabulous choice of great bars and restaurants to suit everyone’s taste.

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

This trip is truly beautiful and the river and its 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.