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Ross on Wye

Ross on Wye, Herefordshire, United Kingdom

Ross on Wye is a charming market town nestled in the picturesque county of Herefordshire, United Kingdom. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, this town is a perfect destination for tourists seeking a …

#picturesque town#historic market town#Wye Valley#scenic views#tourist destination

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Ross on Wye.

Top Hotels in Ross on Wye

Top Flights to Ross on Wye

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Ross on Wye.

Tours

Visit Ross Market House

Explore the historic Market House, a 17th-century building located in the center of Ross on Wye, featuring local produce and handmade crafts.

Goodrich Castle Tour

Tour the medieval Goodrich Castle, offering panoramic views of the valley and insights into England's rich history.

Shopping

Shopping in Ross Labels

Discover the latest fashion, homeware, and gifts at the Labels Shopping Centre in Ross on Wye.

Outdoor

Canoeing on the River Wye

Experience the thrill of canoeing down the scenic River Wye with beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Hiking in the Wye Valley

Explore the beautiful Wye Valley with its picturesque trails and diverse wildlife, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Ross on Wye.

Currency

£ | GBP | Pound Sterling

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, United Kingdom is 10,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Ross on Wye

Jan

7°1°

Feb

8°1°

Mar

11°3°

Apr

13°4°

May

17°7°

Jun

20°10°

Jul

22°12°

Aug

21°12°

Sep

19°10°

Oct

14°7°

Nov

10°4°

Dec

8°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Ross on Wye.

What people love

Ross on Wye, located in Herefordshire, United Kingdom, offers various pros for travelers looking to visit the area:

Scenic Beauty: Ross on Wye is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the River Wye winding its way through the town and surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views, riverside walks, and peaceful landscapes.
Outdoor Activities: The area around Ross on Wye is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, canoeing, and fishing. The nearby Forest of Dean and Wye Valley provide ample options for exploring nature and enjoying outdoor adventures.
Historic Attractions: Ross on Wye has a rich history, with historic buildings, churches, and landmarks to explore. The town is also located near several historic sites, including Goodrich Castle and Tintern Abbey, offering insights into the region's past.
Local Food and Drink: Visitors to Ross on Wye can sample delicious local produce, including cider, cheese, and other gourmet delights. The town also has a range of cafes, restaurants, and pubs serving up tasty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Quaint Market Town: Ross on Wye is a charming market town with a bustling market square, independent shops, and traditional pubs. Strolling through the town's streets and browsing its shops can provide a delightful experience for visitors.

Overall, Ross on Wye offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, history, and local charm, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the English countryside.

What to know

Ross-on-Wye, located in Herefordshire, United Kingdom, is a beautiful town known for its picturesque scenery and quaint charm. However, like any destination, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling there:

Limited public transportation: Ross-on-Wye is a small town, and as such, it may have limited public transportation options. This could make it challenging to navigate the area without a car.
Limited nightlife: If you are looking for a destination with a vibrant nightlife scene, Ross-on-Wye may not be the ideal choice. The town is more known for its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, which may not appeal to those seeking lively entertainment options.
Limited shopping and dining options: While Ross-on-Wye has some lovely local shops and restaurants, the options may be limited compared to larger cities. If you are looking for a wide variety of shopping and dining choices, you may find Ross-on-Wye lacking in this regard.
Weather: As with any destination in the United Kingdom, the weather in Ross-on-Wye can be unpredictable and rainy, particularly during certain times of the year. Be sure to pack accordingly and be prepared for potentially wet weather.
Limited tourist attractions: While Ross-on-Wye is a charming town with beautiful scenery, it may not have as many tourist attractions or activities as larger cities. If you are looking for a destination with a wide range of things to see and do, you may find Ross-on-Wye to be a bit lacking in this area.

Overall, Ross-on-Wye is a lovely destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway, but it may not be the best choice for travelers looking for a bustling city with a wide range of amenities and activities.

Ross-on-Wye is a picturesque market town located in Herefordshire, in the West Midlands of England. It has a rich history that dates back to the medieval period and is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.

Early History

Medieval Period: The town's origins can be traced back to the Norman period, where it grew around a church dedicated to St. Mary the Virgin, which still stands today. The church is noted for its spire, which is a prominent feature of the town's skyline.
Market Charter: Ross received its market charter in 1138, granted by King Stephen, which marked the beginning of its role as a market town and center for trade in the region.

Significant Events and Historical Figures

John Kyrle (1637–1724): Known as "The Man of Ross," Kyrle was a philanthropist and benefactor who played a significant role in the development of the town. He is remembered for his charitable works and improvements to local infrastructure, such as the development of public gardens and other community projects.
Civil War: During the English Civil War, Ross-on-Wye was occupied by Royalist forces, reflecting its strategic importance at the time.

18th and 19th Century Developments

Tourism and the Wye Valley: The town became a focal point for the picturesque movement in the late 18th century, with the Wye Valley being one of the first areas in Britain to become popular for tourism. The publication of "Observations on the River Wye" by William Gilpin in 1782 highlighted the area's natural beauty, attracting visitors and artists.
Industrial Revolution: Like many English towns, Ross-on-Wye experienced changes during the Industrial Revolution, though it remained largely rural and did not undergo extensive industrialization.

Important Landmarks

St. Mary’s Church: Known for its impressive architecture and the surrounding churchyard, which offers panoramic views of the Wye Valley.
The Prospect: A public garden created by John Kyrle, offering stunning views of the River Wye and the surrounding countryside.
Market House: Built in the 17th century, this iconic building stands in the center of the town and serves as a reminder of Ross's long history as a market center.
Wilton Castle: Located on the outskirts of the town, this historic castle dates back to the Norman period and has been partially restored.

Modern Era

Conservation and Heritage: Ross-on-Wye has embraced its historical roots, with many of its buildings and landmarks being preserved and maintained. The town is also part of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, emphasizing its commitment to preserving both natural and built heritage.
Tourism: Today, Ross-on-Wye is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore the natural beauty and historical sites of the Wye Valley. The town hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its history and community spirit.

Ross-on-Wye continues to be celebrated for its historical charm, scenic landscapes, and vibrant community life, making it an enduring symbol of England's rich cultural heritage.