Wye Valley Walk Walking Holidays

The 136-mile (218 km) route follows the lower border between Wales and England. This well-trodden path begins in the remote green uplands of Mid-Wales, weaves through the rolling countryside of Herefordshire, and leads to the dramatic limestone gorges that define the lower Wye Valley.

Don’t forget your binoculars—this path is a wildlife lover’s paradise! Keep an eye out for the distinctive fork-tailed red kites, peregrine falcons, cobalt-blue kingfishers, and an array of river life, including otters and the elusive water vole. As you approach Chepstow, you might even catch a glimpse of Sammy, the resident seal.

The Wye Valley National Landscape is a recognised Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a fascinating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Shaped by centuries of borderland conflicts and once renowned for its industrial innovation in the 1600s, this landscape has been reclaimed by nature, creating a truly one-of-a-kind walking experience. Walk among forts and castle ruins, pass towering red sandstone cliffs carved by the Wye, and admire the area's geological wonders.

Along your journey, you’ll discover iconic landmarks and historic sites that make this walk truly special. Marvel at Tintern Abbey’s stunning seven-lancet window and impressive arches, explore Britain’s only remaining fortified river bridge with its gate tower in Monmouth, and visit the world-famous Mappa Mundi exhibition in Hereford. Stop at Goodrich Castle, with its commanding views over the Wye Valley, and wander through the charming book town of Hay-on-Wye. These captivating places offer perfect opportunities to pause, explore, and unwind along the way.

The terrain along the Wye Valley varies quite frequently, with leisurely riverside stretches interspersed with short, sharp climbs through forest tracks. The uphill sections are well worth the effort, offering superb views from dedicated platforms along the valley—some truly spectacular vantage points await you.

One of the best parts of walking the Wye Valley is passing through tranquil villages and emerging from dense woodland onto open hilltops, following the river towards its source in Rhyd y Benwch.

Despite its length, the trail involves surprisingly little tarmac. Much of the route remains beautifully wild and rural, with minimal development. This means that while some sections can feel a bit rugged, the landscape retains its natural character, including reminders of a more industrious past—Victorian paper mills and old railway lines still trace the river’s tributaries.