If you’re here visiting the wonderful part of the world known as Ross-on-Wye, not only should you be dining at The Hope & Anchor to sample some of the best food and drink, but you should also be taking in all of the beautiful sights on offer. If you love a good view, Symonds Yat Rock should be on your ‘must-visit’ list. Read on to find out why…
What exactly is Symonds Yat Rock?
Symonds Yat Rock is a famous viewpoint known for its picturesque scenery and surrounding walking/biking trails linking to the River Wye.
Where can you find Symonds Yat Rock?
Situated in the Wye Valley, Herefordshire, Symonds Yat Rock is perched 120 metres above the River Wye.
What can you see at Symonds Yat Rock?
Firstly, thanks to the rock’s elevation, you’ll get a beautiful bird’s-eye view of Symonds Yat village, which is located on either side of the River Wye that snakes through the Wye Valley by the cliffside.
You’re also in an excellent position for birdwatching – if that’s something you enjoy doing. The Symonds Yat Rock viewpoint is well known as one of the best places in the country to watch Peregrine Falcons. Additionally, with patience, several other birds can be spotted from here. Goshawks, sparrowhawks and buzzards are all frequent flyers. Ospreys also often stop here during the spring and autumn migration. Tawny owls are sometimes seen roosting, and you can also see barn owls nesting. Ravens and kestrels can also be spotted from here.
Fun things to do at Symonds Yat Rock
If you fancy stretching your legs, waymarked trails from Symonds Yat Rock link to a Forest Holidays campsite and the River Wye. There are also several circular walks in the forest itself.
If you’re more into cycling, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a linear cycling track throughout the woodland, high above the Wye Valley.
If you need to line your stomach before you set off, check out the Symonds Yat Rock café. This family-run business provides homemade food and drinks in the stunning scenery beside Symonds Yat Rock.
Finally, if you are an intrepid explorer, check out orienteering at Symonds Yat Rock. The aim is to navigate between control points marked on an orienteering map. If you feel competitive, you can go against others, and the challenge is completing the course in the shortest time. At Symonds Yat Rock, there are six orienteering courses available. You can choose between easy, medium and hard in terms of length, plus physical and navigational difficulty.
We hope this article persuades you to visit the beautiful Symonds Yat Rock. Once you’ve enjoyed sightseeing in Ross-on-Wye, why not visit The Hope & Anchor for a drink and a bite to eat? We have lots of tasty local produce, and the pub is beside the river with a pretty garden to relax in.
