Holiday rentals in Ross-on-Wye

Overlooking the spectacular River Wye, Ross-on-Wye is a historic market town in southeast Herefordshire close to the Welsh border that draws visitors with its picturesque landscapes. Located in the Wye Valley’s designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, near Gloucester, most of Ross-on-Wye has been recognised as a conservation area. The town boasts 19th-century mock Gothic walls and a folly tower alongside a 17th-century Market House built from local sandstone that now functions as a gallery showcasing the works of local artists and makers.

Ross-on-Wye is known for its abundance of vintage and antique shops. There’s even a Vintage Shopping Trail, where you can search for treasures throughout the town from collectables, jewellery, and clothing to glassware and art. You’ll find traditional milliners making hats as they did in the 19th century, alongside secondhand bookshops and craft stores. The town is also filled with old-fashioned tearooms serving afternoon tea, as well as a handful of traditional English pubs.

The most pleasant time to visit Ross-on-Wye is from late March to June or from September to October, when the days are generally mild for enjoying the outdoors. In May, the RossBeerFest showcases the many beers and ciders produced around the region, accompanied by food and live music. July and August are the warmest months, when you can expect mostly sunny days — but be aware that the weather can be changeable, so it’s a good idea to pack accordingly. Ross-on-Wye is famous for its Bands in the Park events. Every Sunday afternoon between May and September, there’s a concert at the bandstand on Wye Street featuring local musicians. In winter, you can expect cold temperatures, rain, and occasional snowfall, suitable for staying at a cosy holiday cottage.

Symonds Yat Rock

Walk or cycle the 120 metres up to Symonds Yat Rock, an impressive rocky outcrop and one of the most famous viewpoints in the region. From here, you’re guaranteed spectacular views of the lush Wye Valley and the meandering River Wye. Majestic peregrine falcons and other birds of prey nest on the cliffs; you can often spot them soaring above.

Made in Ross

Check out the Made in Ross gallery in the historic Market House in the town centre, where local arts and craft makers display their works. Everything in the gallery is made within 20 miles of the town, including paintings, photographs, sculptures, pottery, and jewellery.

Goodrich Castle

Just outside of town, Goodrich Castle stands above the River Wye overlooking rolling countryside and the border with Wales. The 13th-century chapel features a stained glass window installed in 2000 that takes inspiration from the river below, while the well-known Roaring Meg mortar is the only one remaining from the Civil Wars, when the castle was the site of a famous siege. Once you’ve explored this historic fortress, you can stop off for a slice of cake or a leisurely lunch at the on-site tea room.