Ross-on Wye the gateway to the Wye Valley in the County of Herefordshire
The spectacular surrounding countryside and picturesque village atmosphere of Ross on Wye with its impressive 17th century Market Hall and Tudor timbered houses its picture postcard material.
The dramatic setting of Ross-on-Wye belies the friendliness of a town that has restored the spirits of world-weary travelers for centuries.
The town has a mock gothic style to its architecture.In the past Ross has benefited from generous town folk who in the 16th and 17th centuries helped set-up schools, charities and hospitals. Ross on Wye in 1821 consisted of just under 3000 citizens in 600 dwellings. An agricultural community it became an important place for the nearby farms and villages to trade their produce. The Market House still holds markets twice a week. Agriculture still plays an important role today although tourism has become on of the main sources of income for the town there are some excellent shops ranging from small craft shops to some of the larger high street chains..
The now famous 'Wye Tour' fuelled Ross's market in becoming a hotspot for tourists, and during the 19th century the effects of the Improvements Act significantly changed the appearance of Ross to visitors, with the regeneration of dilapidated buildings and the creation of new roads.
The area surrounding Ross on Wye with it's Prehistoric caves, Medieval Castles, Roman forts and Neolithic settlements have yeilded many historical artifacts.
Nearby is the world-famous beauty spot of Symonds Yat. Here the river has carved a dramatic gorge through towering limestone cliffs that are home to a myriad of birds including the rare peregrine falcon. The two settlements nestling in the depths of the wood end gorge, Symonds Yat East and West, offer a variety of attractions and are connected, during the day and when conditions allow, by an unusual man-powered rope ferry.The rope ferry offers a tranquil way to cross from Symonds Yat East to Symonds Yat West.
The remarkable ruins of Goodrich Castle dominate a rocky outcrop overlooking the Wye Valley.
The natural beauty of the Wye Valley has attracted writers, poets, artists and those seeking the picturesque views. Ross on Wye is an ideal base for exploring the Forest of Dean, Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains and the Malvern Hills. Within easy reach of Ross on Wye are the Cities of Hereford, Gloucester and Worcester each of which have their own Cathedral.

Although visitors are welcomed all year round, Ross is also becoming famous for the International Music Festival that takes place every year in August on the banks of the River Wye and features world famous artists from television, music, dance and theatre. The town is guaranteed to be buzzing at this time of year.
The River Wye undoubtedly makes the town all the more beautiful. The parkland by the riverbank allows visitors to stroll alongside the river bank and admire its scenery or view the surrounding countryside from a Hot-Air Balloon.
Ross on Wye is an excellent gateway to the Forest of Dean, The Malvern's, Brecon Beacon and the Cathedral cities of Hereford, Worcester and Gloucester. The watery thoroughfare of the River Wye provides endless opportunities for leisure and relaxation. |