A few years ago a walker along the riverside below Ross-on-Wye would have encountered a sad sight – a closed pub in a fantastic scenic position overlooking the bend in the river. A local businessman and ex-mayor of Ross saw the potential, and after ambitious restoration the pub reopened in June 2022.
Now much more than a pub, the Hope and Anchor is a dining and entertainment complex with guest rooms for overnight stays, and does justice to its fabulous location on England’s favourite river.
Approach the Hope and Anchor along the riverside path which forms part of the Wye Valley Walk, either from the upstream Rowing club, or the downstream Wilton Bridge, and you will enter the ‘The Hope and Anchor Pleasure Garden’.
Alternatively, from Ross town centre descend the steps (part of The Herefordshire Trail) that start near the salmon sculpture outside the Man of Ross pub and pass the colourful Sensory Garden at the bottom on your right, before emerging next to the porch entrance of the Hope and Anchor on your left.
Enter via the porch and the bar is on the left. Immediately above a vintage rowing boat hugs the ceiling, and prints of boat designs add to the river theme. Steps on the right lead up to two painted wood-panelled dining rooms, with windows offering views over the riverside.
The bar has two cask ales on hand-pull – Wye Valley HPA and Butty Bach, both in very good condition during a recent visit. International lagers are available on keg dispense, and some low and no alcohol beers. A broad range of still and sparkling wines are available, all by the glass or bottle. An extensive menu of cocktails and mocktails add to the exotic choices, and masterclasses are available to book for budding mixologists.
The main pub building is flanked by the larger Pavilion bar. A light and airy space with an ornate staircase leading to an upstairs area, this is available for hire for parties, celebrations and corporate events for up to 80 guests with various catering options. The Pub menu is varied with some pub classics and other interesting mains, and several gluten free options. An impressive separate vegan menu offers plenty of choice. On Sundays a variety of roasts are offered. The Pavilion serves breakfast (7:00 or 8:00 to 11:00) and afternoon teas (13:00 to 17:00, you will need to pre-book).
Outside, the Pleasure Garden extends down to the riverbank, with some large leafy trees adding an almost German Biergarten vibe, with many picnic tables. A roofed open-sided seating area provides some shelter from the elements. The wooden Hut is another bar to cater for the outside tables, duplicating many of the inside drinks options, with the addition of cakes and an ice cream selection. There are two wood-fired ovens adjacent which are fired up on Fridays to offer a range of garlic breads and pizzas.
The riverside bandstand, with stage and seating enclosed in an interesting geometric modern marquee, is used for live music at weekends. From May to September, a variety of musicians perform starting in the early evening. See the website for full details.
If you fancy a longer stay, there are 12 rooms, some described as dog-friendly, which get favourable reviews on online review sites.
The pub has its own landing steps, and paddleboard and canoe trips can be arranged. Making the most of the riverside situation, the Hope and Anchor is an ideal stop off point for those enjoying the river, whether it’s for a quick drink, bite to eat or an overnight stay.
Opening Hours and bookings:
Website: thehopeandanchor.co.uk
Tel: 01989 477025
Email: info@thehopeandanchor.co.uk
