Where limestone cliffs rise above the water — and every path leads to quiet woods, riverside views, and timeless border landscapes.
The Wye Valley National Landscape (formerly AONB) is one of Britain’s most dramatic river landscapes, carved by the winding River Wye along the border of England and Wales. Stretching from Hereford down to Chepstow, it blends limestone gorges, ancient woodland, historic viewpoints, peaceful meadows, and riverside villages — a perfect setting for self-guided walking holidays and outdoor adventures.
Walkers can follow the long-distance Wye Valley Walk, explore iconic viewpoints like Symonds Yat Rock, wander between medieval ruins at Tintern Abbey, or climb wooded hills for views across two countries at once. With a mix of gentle riverside paths, steep gorge climbs, and quiet woodland trails, the Wye Valley offers something for beginners, experienced walkers, and slow-travel seekers alike.
A 136-mile long-distance trail following the River Wye from Chepstow to Plynlimon.
The National Landscape section winds between river meadows, wooded slopes, limestone cliffs, and historic villages such as Monmouth, Tintern, and Symonds Yat.
Walk through ancient woodland to one of the valley’s most iconic viewpoints, looking down on the ruins of Tintern Abbey. A classic Wye Valley half-day route.
A famous viewpoint overlooking a sweeping bend in the River Wye, with miles of woodland trails, riverside paths, and chances to spot peregrine falcons.
A gentle but rewarding climb above Monmouth with far-reaching views across the Wye Valley, Black Mountains, and Forest of Dean.
A spectacular stretch of Offa’s Dyke Path combining riverside walking, viewpoints, and deep woodland on the border between England and Wales.
It stretches along the River Wye between Chepstow, Monmouth, Ross-on-Wye, and Hereford, covering the border between England and Wales.
The Wye Valley Walk, the Tintern Abbey to Devil’s Pulpit route, Symonds Yat trails, Offa’s Dyke Path near Chepstow, and riverside loops around Monmouth and Redbrook.
Yes — many riverside paths are flat and well waymarked. Woodland and gorge sections offer more challenge for experienced walkers.
Spring and autumn are ideal for colour and light, while summer brings lush woodland and long days. Winter offers quiet, atmospheric walking.
Monmouth, Tintern, Symonds Yat, Brockweir, and Ross-on-Wye all offer excellent access to walking routes.