Ross-on-Wye is a hiker’s paradise. The town and its surrounding countryside offer endless waymarked routes to explore as well as the chance to go off the beaten track. Whilst its local walking groups provide a warm welcome to all visitors who share a passion for hiking the great outdoors and those looking to see the county of Herefordshire at its most beautiful.
Ross is also the perfect base to challenge yourself with a long-distance walk, with many of these breathtaking hikes taking you through the historic market town and far beyond.
Here we share the very best long-distance trails in and around Ross-on-Wye so you can hike your way through this stunning part of the country.
Ross Round
Hikers wanting to ease themselves into long-distance walking should start their holiday on the Ross Round.
This circular route is a manageable 18 miles long. But with additional 12 and 15-mile loops accessible from the trail, you’ll be able to continue your walk or pick up where you left off the very next day. There are some great sights to see along the route, making the Ross Round the perfect introduction to the town for those visiting for the very first time.
Journey along the River Wye, hike through Eaton Park; even explore the historic Burnt House and the Roman town of Ariconium on the route.
Three Choirs Way
Up your average with the 100-mile-long Three Choirs Way route. This ancient trail takes you on a tour of three counties in total and all the hop yards, vineyards and orchards in between. You’ll also cross a plethora of waterways on the route, including the River Wye, Severn, Teme and Lugg.
Like the Ross Round, Three Choirs Way is a circular route. It passes close to Ross-on-Wye, making the town an ideal place to stay during your trip.
Wye Valley Walk
The picturesque Wye Valley is a must-visit for all those staying in Ross, and there’s no better way to appreciate its beauty than by hiking the Wye Valley Walk.
A great mix of hill and river walking, the 136-mile trail leisurely takes you from source to sea all along the length of the River Wye. You’ll get to experience a variety of landscapes, including gorges, ancient woodlands, meadows, orchards, rocky cascades, and rugged uplands.
There are also lots of opportunities to spot the Wye Valley’s most famous residents. Read our guide to exploring the wilder side of Wye for further details on the wide selection of wildlife that live in the area.
Offa’s Dyke Path
For experienced hikers looking to push themselves to the limit, Offa’s Dyke Path provides the ultimate challenge.
The historic trail takes you along the English-Welsh border and through eight different counties to deliver a hike like no other. It takes hikers up to 12 days to hike the entire route, whilst fell runners tend to complete Offa’s Dyke Path in just 5 days.
The 177-mile route is split into 12 sections so if time is not on your side, you can explore the trail via several smaller circular and linear walks. Lonely Planet describes the most well-known short hike along Offa’s Dyke Path – and it passes close to Ross-on-Wye:
“Perhaps the most famous stretch is found in the Lower Wye Valley, where the trail passes historic market towns, crumbling abbey ruins and ancient woodlands all built up along the pleasant meadow banks of the River Wye. Walk up to the Devil’s Pulpit, a limestone crag nestled amid an area of woodland, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views over the ruins of Tintern Abbey.“
Whether you’re walking long or short distances, you’ll need good food and drink, and a comfy base, to rest up after a long day’s hike. Eat, drink and stay (accommodation opens in Spring 2022) at The Hope & Anchor by contacting our team to book.
