The River Wye is a 155-mile ribbon of water stretching from the slopes of Plynlimon in Wales to its confluence with the Severn at Chepstow, and although only a short stretch of that runs through the centre of Ross-on-Wye its impact has been felt for over 200 years.
Dubbed “the birthplace of British tourism”, leisure travel was quickly popularised with the start of boat trips along the Wye organised by Dr. John Egerton in Ross. To add to this, the “Man of Ross”, John Kyrle created a public, elevated garden and viewpoint called The Prospect Garden, offering scenic views overlooking the Wye’s horseshoe bend. At the time, these boat tours focused on appreciating the picturesque scenery that would go on to inspire poets, painters, and tourists alike. Today, the stretch of the Wye accessible from Ross offers something for everyone: walking, wildlife, canoeing, relaxation and family fun.
On its Banks
Follow the route of Britain’s first tourism attraction on foot along the easy riverside walk from Wilton Road Car Park. Its level paths are suitable for all ages and those with limited mobility. It’s also where the Wye’s wildlife takes centre stage. Moorhens and mallards, swans, Canada geese, cormorants and kingfishers all call the Wye home. The warmer weather also brings about the most theatrical displays by orange-tip butterflies and banded demoiselle damselflies. And in the dappled shade where the path meets woodland, take your time spotting the tall, dark Helleborine orchid with its beautiful greenish, purple-tinged flowers.
Space to Play
Beyond the wildlife, the riverside walk takes you past the Rope Walk children’s play area and open field. Let the kids burn off some energy on the swings and slides while you spread a blanket on the grass for an impromptu picnic and let your four-legged friends run free. While you’re there, keep your eyes peeled for the ‘Swans in Flight’ sculptures by local sculptor Walenty Pytel – a tribute to the real thing gliding on the water nearby.
On the Water
Take to the water to truly understand why the Wye has captured the hearts of so many. Ross Rowing Club, based at the river, opens this world through learn-to-row sessions, regattas, regular events and even riverside camping for those wanting to wake to the mist rising off the water.
Or, for those preferring a more leisurely pace, hire a canoe and enjoy the quiet, broken only by birdsong and the dip of your paddle. It’s an accessible adventure, suitable for beginners, and the gentle current does much of the work for you.
Enjoy fishing? Cast your line along the Wye’s banks during season. The river holds brown trout, grayling, chub, and the occasional salmon making the journey upstream. And although salmon stocks may have declined significantly, what hasn’t changed is the meditative quality of the pursuit – the same patience required whether fishing in 1826 or 2026.
Refuel Riverside
After a time on the water or the towpath, Ross’s riverside offerings cater to every appetite. The Riverside Inn Café delivers good food with a view – the sort of spot that works equally well for a morning coffee or a lazy lunch. The Hope & Anchor is a beautiful riverside pub and restaurant, offering wholesome breakfasts, a delicious homemade pub menu and delectable afternoon teas. And the Hope & Anchor Pleasure Garden at the Pavilion has become a destination within itself where children can enjoy an ice-cream and take to the grass while their adults relax with a cider and wood-fired pizza.
Take the 232
Our 232 Daffodil Line makes the Wye accessible without a car. From the Cantilupe Road bus stop it is a short 10-minute walk through the town centre, past the distinctive 17th-century Market House and down towards the water.
Why the Wye?
A place where tourism was invented through genuine wonder at the natural world, that wonder remains accessible today. You can while away a whole day by the Wye in Ross doing everything from walking, paddling, and watching, to eating, playing – or almost nothing at all. The river doesn’t judge. It simply welcomes you to join it.
