Wye Valley walking itinerary

Distance: 
136 miles (218 km)
Airports:
Bristol/Cardiff

Plan your route: VisitBritain Journey Planner

The Wye Valley Walk follows the beautiful river valley from Chepstow in Monmouthshire to Rhayader in Powys, criss-crossing the border between England  and Wales . The Wye and its banks are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) from source to mouth, and between Chepstow and Hereford the walk passes through the heart of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Day 1: Chepstow - Monmouth

Chepstow - Monmouth: 17 miles (28 km)
Totals for Day: 17 miles (28 km)

Chepstow

Credit: James F Clay

The Wye Valley Walk starts in the historic walled market town and ancient port of Chepstow. Visit the grand Chepstow Castle, which, on its rock above the waters of the River Wye, stands guard over the strategic crossing point into Wales. It was among the first of Britain's stone-built castles and is well worth a visit.

Must see & do:

Parva Farm Vineyard | Tintern Abbey | Caldicot Castle

Monmouth

On your walk, you cross the border into Wales, and your first stop is the town of Monmouth. Set in the heart of the Wye Valley, Monmouth is officially designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town is steeped in history, and a walk around will introduce you to the Roman and Medieval beginnings, Georgian mansions and Victorian courtyards.

Must see & do:

Goodrich Castle | Skenfrith Castle | Amazing Hedge Puzzle | Nelson Museum

Day 2: Monmouth - Ross-on-Wye

Monmouth - Ross-on-Wye: 12 miles (20 km)
Totals for Day: 12 miles (20 km)

Ross-on-Wye

Credit: Anguskirk

The historic town of Ross-on-Wye is your destination on today's walk. Perched on a sandstone cliff high above the River Wye, this historic town offers something for everyone. A grand 17th century market hall dominates the town centre, and the streets are lined with great high street shops.

Must see & do:

Goodrich Castle | Ross Market House Heritage Centre | Symonds Yat West Leisure Park | Parkfields Gallery

Day 3: Ross-on-Wye - Hereford

Ross-on-Wye - Hereford: 16 miles (26 km)
Totals for Day: 16 miles (26 km)

Hereford

Today, the Wye Valley Way takes you to the ancient city of Hereford. The city is a perfect mix of old and new, so don't be surprised to see historic buildings housing modern shops and modern buildings holding historic treasures. Visit Hereford Cathedral to see some of the finest architecture from Norman times to the present day.

Must see & do:

Sufton Court | The Old House | Shipley Gardens | Coningsby Medieval Museum

Day 4: Hereford - Bredwardine

Hereford - Bredwardine: 11 miles (18 km)
Totals for Day: 11 miles (18 km)

Bredwardine

Credit: zingyyellow

The village of Bredwardine is your next stop on the walk. Situated beside the River Wye, this beautiful village is linked with the hamlet of Brobury by a bridge over the river. The hills above the village give stunning views over the Golden Valley to the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons.

Must see & do:

Moccas Court | Darkley Gardens | Kinnersley Castle

Day 5: Bredwardine - Hay-on-Wye - Erwood 

Bredwardine - Hay-on-Wye: 7 miles (12 km)
Hay-on-Wye - Erwood: 11 miles (18 km)
Totals for Day: 18 miles (30 km) 

Hay-on-Wye & Erwood

The town of Hay-on-Wye is known as 'the town of books' due to the number of bookshops, which at present, is over 30. Hay-on-Wye is also home to the annual literary festival, the Hay Festival. Your second destination for today is the picturesque village of Erwood, where you can stop in the local pub and enjoy the stunning views.

Must see & do:

Red Darren Picnic Place

Day 6: Erwood - Llanwrthwl

Erwood - Llanwrthwl: 17 miles (28 km)
Totals for Day: 17 miles (28 km) 

Llanwrthwl

Credit: blackadderajr

The village of Llanwrthwl is today's destination on the Wye Valley Walk. The small Welsh village is nestled in the Elan Valley. Take a walk around the village's beautiful scenery, enjoy activities like rock climbing and relax by one of the many reservoirs.

Must see & do:

Gigrin Red Kite Feeding Centre | Welsh Royal Crystal

Day 7: Llanwrthwl - Llangurig

Llanwrthwl - Llangurig: 12 miles (20 km)
Totals for Day: 12 miles (20 km) 

Llangurig

Situated on the banks of the River Wye, Llangurig is said to be the highest village in Wales at an altitude of 1,000 feet. It is also the first village from the source of the River Wye and is situated in the centre of Wales. Visit Llangurig parish church, which is home to the Royal pew of Prince Albert.

Day 8: Llangurig - Plynlimon

Llangurig - Plynlimon: 12 miles (20 km)
Totals for Day: 12 miles (20 km) 

Plynlimon

Credit: Ted and Jen

The Wye Valley Walk ends today at Plynlimon (also known as Pumulon), the source of the River Wye. Plynlimon mountain is the highest point of the Cambrian mountains in Wales. The River Severn also has its source here. Spectacular views and rich wildlife make Plynlimon the perfect place to relax.

Must see & do:

Welsh Royal Crystal | Marston Pottery | Gigrin Red Kite Feeding Centre