- Glamping with hot tubs
Glamping with hot tubs in Wye Valley AONB
99% (272) • 234 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Wye Valley AONB
The T Barn
1. The T Barn
99%
(93)
Cirencester, England · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
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68 Degrees West
2. 68 Degrees West
99%
(104)
Cradoc, Wales · 10 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pod glamping and family camping on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, with a handy location near Brecon town and sunrises you'll never forget.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
Upper House Farm Glamping
3. Upper House Farm Glamping
96%
(14)
Michaelchurch Escley, England · 4 units · Tents, Glamping
Our glamping site is set on our family farm in the rural Welsh Border in Herefordshire and we are a dog friendly site. We have just 3 tents in 2.5acres, we want our guests to enjoy the peace and privacy of a rural getaway but have the luxuries of a comfy bed, toilets and showers, a kitchenette and a private fire pit.
We are nestled between family farms and surrounded by sheep, cattle and footpaths, so an adventure is at your doorstep.
If you're looking for a peaceful, secluded and romantic place to unwind then our site is ideal.
We have gorgeous views over the Black Mountains and are close to the towns of Hay-on-Wye and Hereford.
Pets
Campfires
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Wyre & Wild
4. Wyre & Wild
Bewdley, England · 1 unit
Set in a private ancient woodland just outside Bewdley. We offer a place to pitch up a tent, hire our bell tents, our handcrafted shepherds hut, or simply camp out in nature.
This isn't just a place to stay—it’s a slow-living experience. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy a romantic off-grid escape, we have a magical slice of the Worcestershire countryside.
The Shepherds Hut
Our cabin is a labor of love, blending rustic craftsmanship with cozy, whimsical design. Inside, you’ll find a warm, wood-paneled sanctuary featuring:
* The Hobbit-Style Bedroom: A unique, circular portal leads to a small double-sized nook with views directly into the trees.
* The Kitchen: Fully equipped for slow mornings, featuring a stone vessel sink, tea and coffee facilities, and cutlery.
* Forest Shower room: Step onto our stone resin floor, wash away the day under a piping hot shower, and pamper yourself with our complimentary toiletries.
The magic truly happens once you step outside into your private area:
* The Cedar Hot Tub: Soak under the stars in our wood-fired tub, tucked away in a private screened nook.
* Al Fresco Dining: Multiple outdoor seating areas, including a covered canopy for rainy-day. Fire-PIT with all BBQ cooking utensils provided.
Group Stays & Extra Guests:
Looking to share the woodland magic? For small groups, we can occasionally pitch a bell tent. This is a seasonal, non-permanent option with limited availability. Please mention your group size when enquiring so we can confirm if we can accommodate your extra guests.
Camping is available.
The Location
Located in Button Oak, you are perfectly positioned to explore:
* Bewdley: A historic Georgian riverside town (5-minute drive).
* Wyre Forest: Miles of walking and cycling trails right on your doorstep.
* Severn Valley Railway: Catch a vintage steam train for a trip back in time.
Guest Access & Amenities
* Dog Friendly: We love four-legged explorers! The woodland is a paradise for well-behaved dogs.
Please note, for one night stays there will be an extra charge of £40 for the hot tub if you with to use it, due to the cleaning and short time period.
Thanks
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Offas Dyke Retreat
5. Offas Dyke Retreat
100%
(4)
England · 10 units
A holiday taking in two countries – a tad ambitious? Not in the slightest. Take off to Offa’s Dyke Retreat and such escapades are very easy indeed, as you’re almost on the border of England and Wales, with plenty of gorgeous scenery and outdoorsy antics on both sides of the divide.
Site is set in 3 acres with new 2023 communal space, including games room sofa snug, dinning area, new wet rooms and kitchen to be complete December 2023.
You can start gazing at that scenery without even leaving this friendly glamping site in the little village of Longtown, for the outlook here is one of the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons National Park. Ready for a closer look? Get those boots on and set off for a wander. The Offa’s Dyke path passes nearby on its way from Pandy to Hay-on-Wye, and there are lots of little local paths to explore too.
A stroll of a much less strenuous variety (barely a 7 minute, in fact) takes you to the local pub for home-cooked meals, local ales. If you can manage a little further (a 6 minutes walk), you can get to a fab village shop stacked with fresh and frozen food, local tipples and homemade cakes. Stock up there and trot back to the site for a picnic or barbecue (firepit provided, with firewood available to buy on site), or use the well-equipped communal kitchen to prep your eats.
5 ensuite railway carriages with kitchenette, 2 pods and 3 further carriages use shared facilities on site include a toilet block with a couple of showers; no need to bring your own towels, as you’ll be provided with these when you get here, along with bedding for your cosy sleeping quarters.
Pets
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Campfires
Penylan Cider Farm
6. Penylan Cider Farm
96%
(24)
Pontrilas, Wales · 3 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Pitches and tiny home glamping on a cider farm in Herefordshire
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Campfires
Showers
Camp Hillcrest
7. Camp Hillcrest
94%
(16)
Lydney, England · 1 unit
A horsebox hideaway on a super cool site with its own skatepark
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.
8. Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.
99%
(86)
St Briavels, England · 4 units
Magical, secluded glamping in the Wye Valley, yards from the Offas Dyke trail
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Lakeside Escape
9. Lakeside Escape
Clevedon, England · 1 unit
Join us at Lakeside Escape, a wild apple Orchard set next to Plantations Lakes.
Roam this whole site and find Old Oak trees in our beautiful copse, 3 commercial fishing lakes to walk around, and a nature lake tucked away filled with lilies, birds darting in and around, and dragonflies to focus on and ground yourself.
Or just spend your time in our main wild orchard, this is filled with old apple trees wild flowers and has the Copse all down one side and mature tree lines on all the other 3. It is split in 4 so you have your own slice to enjoy with privacy and the feeling of seclusion and never many people on site at a time.
We have Robins rest which is our relaxation and hot tub area, this space is in the heart of the Orchard with comfy undercover seating for you to totally unwind, bird watch and relax. A 2.5hr session here is complimentary with every 2-night stay, additional sessions are £45.
The whole site has been designed to allow you to disconnect from the outside world and technology, to slow down and enjoy taking some time to connect with nature, yourself, and others in your group.
We call it camping with a touch of luxury. Enjoy a proper bed, mattress and seating and everything provided for your stay while getting that feeling of being in the heart of the countryside, going to sleep to stars by the fire pit and waking up to the rich birdsong. just bring clothes, towels and food!) Camping without the stress of cramming everything you need in the car and pitching a tent when you get here. While getting that feeling of being in the heart of the countryside, going to sleep to stars by the fire pit and waking up to the rich birdsong.
The site is based in the village of Kingston Seymour, a lovely farming village with flat walks/cycles, sea wall to discover, multiple cafes to enjoy and just 10 minutes from the seaside town of Clevedon, or 30 minutes from Cheddar Gorge.
Pets
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Campfires
Oakhill Ponds
10. Oakhill Ponds
96%
(13)
Somerset, England · 6 units
A uniquely peaceful Somerset glamping site set around two ponds in its own beautiful wildlife garden.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
Woodland Tipi & Yurt Holidays
11. Woodland Tipi & Yurt Holidays
100%
(20)
Hereford, England · 7 units
Luxury yurt and tipi camping in a magical woodland setting
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Glamping West Midlands
12. Glamping West Midlands
100%
(29)
Enville, England · 2 units
Head here for an authentic glamping getaway in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
Glangwdi Glamping
13. Glangwdi Glamping
100%
(12)
Brecon, Wales · 3 units
Glangwdi Glamping offers furnished bell tents in sight of Pen y Fan, the Brecon Beacon’s highest peak. For some, that alone will be reason enough to book but for others there are further temptations. The site is 2.5 acres. Take, for example, Glangwdi’s pygmy goats. There’s a daily opportunity to meet these little farmyard friends and there are ducks and chickens too. And, as if that’s not enough, this flat field in the foothills is just five miles from bustling Brecon and a short walk from woods, waterfalls and wild swimming.
The bell tents themselves are yet another attraction. There are six; each pitched around the edge of a neat field on a family farm. Woven hazel fencing ensures a little privacy for each camping couple or family – this place is equally suited to both. Children will love the cute pygmy goats and adults… well let’s face it, they will love the pygmy goats too. But they’ll also love the fact that you can hike straight from site to the top of 886-metre Pen y Fan and its twin peak Corn Du. And who wouldn’t enjoy a campfire under the stars, in the shadow of the Beacons?
The five and six metre bell tents are each kitted out with beds, bedding and log-burning stoves. Outside, each has the off-ground fire pit and outdoor seating regular glampers will have come to expect but there’s an added extra too: a private camp kitchen, that’s also canvas covered. It provides a sheltered place to cook and dine when the weather’s wet and welcome shade when this open field is bathed in summer sun.
On such days, this is just the kind of scenic spot that could tempt you to stay on site all day but if you’re feeling adventurous the mountains will soon lure you away. Hiking, biking and wild swimming (try Llyn Cwm Llwch on way up top) are all on offer here. Closer by, Held Wood is a local favourite for walks with a series of small waterfalls within it. The Taff Trail offers well-signposted routes – towards the peaks in one direction or along country lanes to the market town of Brecon in the other.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Lodge on a Lake
14. Lodge on a Lake
98%
(33)
Cardiff, Wales · 2 units
Secluded lakeside lodges that show you needn’t travel far from Cardiff city to find countryside
Showers
Wifi
Potable water
Cowleaze Farm
15. Cowleaze Farm
83%
(6)
Faringdon, England · 1 unit
A unique glamping pod with a hot tub and views of the Uffington White Horse
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Yurt and Walled Garden
16. Yurt and Walled Garden
100%
(2)
Shepton Mallet, England · 1 unit
Unique & enchanting a lush walled garden on the edge of a quiet village provides the perfect place to relax & recharge. Unwind in a wood-fired hot tub or around the fire in the spacious & comfortable yurt. Cook up a feast in the well-equipped outdoor kitchen.
Explore the adjoining historic land; meadows, waterfalls & swimming ponds. Book the off-grid spa with horse-box sauna & Swedish hot-tub.
Take a dip or paddle-board & enjoy spotting deer.
Enjoy great food at the local pub just a short walk away
Then explore Somerset.
Enjoy staying in a beautiful organic 21 ft yurt nestled in a magical walled garden exclusively for your use.
Your stay includes:
A beautiful garden with pizza oven, bbq, hand-made swing, reclining chairs, fire pit
A wood- fired ‘dip-tank hot-tub for two (or 2 adults and a child)
A fully equipped outdoor kitchen
A further indoor kitchenette with fridge-freezer, toaster & oven
A monsoon shower & 2 flushing toilets
A further garden room with double-bed and electricity
A 21 ft Yurt with king-sized bed, sofa, dining table, vinyl collection with turntable & blu-tooth.
A wood-burning fire with a complementary basket of logs
Quality linen, towels, and toiletries,
Eye-masks & dressing gowns
Sleeping arrangements are flexible for four people as there is an extra double bedroom in the garden room on the terrace or extra beds can be put in the yurt.
The walled garden sits away from but has access to The Brew Somerset with 25 acres of private land.
The Brew Somerset is a glamping and retreat site arranged around the spring-fed ponds. These ponds once served the Oakhill Brewery. Stout was first brewed in the village of Oakhill in 1767, using water which comes down from the Mendip Hills.
In the 18th century Oakhill Stout was thought to have ‘magical‘ healing properties. Now you can take a dip in these waters. The beady-eyed can spot kingfisher, heron, buzzard, kite, cormorant & much more in the way of wildlife.
Walled garden guests have access to this larger site in the afternoons, between 1pm and 5pm. The retreat site is not suitable for young children.
Coming soon: Don't miss the uniqueness of the pop-up off-grid spa with horse-trailer sauna, wood-fired hot tub and treatment tent. Enjoy a sauna or hot-tub whilst watching deer browse.....seriously! Booking essential.
All of this is just a leisurely stroll away from an excellent pub.
Relax, unwind, enjoy - a breathing space.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Goytree Glamping and Treehouses
17. Goytree Glamping and Treehouses
100%
(5)
Walterstone, England · 4 units
Enchanting places to stay on an organic farm in Herefordshire
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Cosy Couple's Log Cabins + Hot Tubs
18. Cosy Couple's Log Cabins + Hot Tubs
100%
(5)
Hereford, England · 3 units
A stylishly simple and secluded cabin for two in the Wye Valley
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Cotswold Country Escapes
19. Cotswold Country Escapes
100%
(1)
Cheltenham, England · 1 unit
At the heart of luxury meets nature lies Cotswold Country Escapes, set within the stunning cotswold countryside, with all that nature has to offer.
Our Shepherds Hut in the Cotswolds is guaranteed to make your luxury break a memorable one.
This is our Narnia.which we love and are truly blessed by, the daily scenes of pheasants, Birds of Prey, hares, deer, partridge and most importantly limited human beings! This, coupled with amazing walks and two cotswold pubs in walking distance, truly makes this a place we do not want to leave.
Willow, our boutique double braced shepherds hut, provides unique luxury accommodation in the most peaceful and perfect setting, privately nestled in its own little copse. Guests are also free to explore our 13 acres of meadow with one of the most glorious views across the churn valley.
We are lucky enough to be well traveled and have taken our personal experiences of what we have loved to add little extras that will help to make your stay memorable:
We are very excited to be able to share our environment with others, and can guarantee you’ll have a fantastic experience. Please explore our site to see what we have to offer, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions.
Our vision was to create a romantic, cosey, luxurious and secluded hideaway where you can be whatever you want to be, breathe and grow amongst natural surroundings, and make memories that will stay with people forever.
Michael & Julia
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Glamping Pods Wales
20. Glamping Pods Wales
100%
(29)
Llangadog, Wales · 2 units
Cosy modern glamping pods with private hot tubs, located in the Brecon Beacons National Park
Showers
Wifi
Potable water
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Jonathan
2 weeks ago
With kids
We had such a brilliant time! The space is so lovely, the tent and hot tub were amazing, and Jo was the best. The kids had a wonderful time with the goats and the dog Lucy :)
Highly recommend!
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J
Jana
May 2026
With kids
Amazing experience, very nice, quite, clean and fully equipped. Beautiful view nearby. I definitely recommend visiting.
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N
NATALIE
May 2026
With kids
We’ve just arrived home from our glamping weekend at West Midlands Camping and honestly, we already can’t wait to return. We booked a last-minute family weekend away wanting more time outdoors and a break from busy life, and it ended up being one of the loveliest weekends we’ve had together. As a family of five, the yurt was the perfect size and had everything we needed, including pots, pans, and all the little touches that made it feel comfortable from the moment we arrived. The outdoor fire pit was a huge hit and made cooking outside feel like a real adventure for the kids. The weather was beautiful while we were there, so we spent the days using the hot tub as a cool dipping pool and the evenings relaxing in it under the stars. The location itself is absolutely stunning, surrounded by green fields, peaceful countryside, and wonderful animals everywhere you look. Chris was the most amazing host. Her love for the animals and the farm completely shines through, and she made such an effort to involve the children in farm life. They loved helping herd the sheep, feeding the animals, and even hosing down Dave the emu and his friends to keep them cool in the heat. Meeting the llamas, donkeys, Zack the horse, all of Chris’s dogs, and having little Archie stay in the yurt overnight was the highlight of the trip for the kids. Thank you, Chris, for creating such a special little sanctuary in the countryside. Your warmth and passion are infectious, and we left with the best memories.
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E
Elle
May 2026
Weekend Trip to The T Barn
We had such a wonderful stay at the shepherd’s hut and honestly couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The setting was absolutely gorgeous, especially with the beautiful weather we were lucky enough to have — it made everything feel even more magical and relaxing.
Everything was explained so clearly on arrival, which made settling in really easy and stress-free. The hut itself was spotless, well thought out, and had everything we needed for a cosy and comfortable stay.
One of the highlights was definitely our meal at The Village Pub — it was honestly the best meal of the trip and made the whole experience feel even more special.
We had the best time and would absolutely love to come back again. Such a perfect little escape to the countryside!
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P
Peter
May 2026
With kids
We had a wonderful weekend here. The indoor skate park is an incredible feature, and we had a great time in the tree net and playing big chess. We stayed in the lovely converted horsebox and it had everything we needed. I would happily visit again to stay for a weekend or along Offa's Dyke Path.
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K
Karl
April 2026
2 nights at Hideaway Hut, Camping cabin.
Had an absolutely magical two night stay here for our anniversary. The bed is super comfy. The bath was so relaxing I'm afraid it might have ruined every other bath for me from here on out! The outdoor shower is superb, I've never felt so relaxed and energised.
The area is absolutely beautiful, we went for a walk on the gorgeous bluebell woods and the woodland commons.
Hostess was super friendly and helpful, I can't recommend it enough.
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s
sophie
March 2026
With kids
Christine was very welcoming and kind to the kids. Will defo book again.
See moreL
Luke
February 2026
With kids
Fun one night stop!
The kids loved the skatepark.
The Horsebox has all you need for a short break.
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Lisa
January 2026
Weekend Trip to Offas Dyke Retreat
The hut was stunning, perfectly presented and stocked with towels, dressing gowns, tea / coffee / sugar, hairdryer and everything you would need to cook.
The hot tub was amazing - I had worried it would have been cold but it was perfect.
As our visit was during rainy January I had worried the hut may have been cold but it was toasty with the heater and very cosy.
A perfect getaway.
See moreL
Lucy
January 2026
With kids
We had a lovely fun few night stay in the horsebox. Weather wasnt the best but with the log fire it was still warm. Corinna was very helpful and made sure we was comfortable. We will definitely be back in future.
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C
Claire
December 2025
With kids
Staying in the Horsebox was just fabulous, so much to do, we enjoyed darts, ping pong, table football, tree net and the fabulous skate park. Our hosts were so friendly and we booked wood fired pizza for our evening meal which was delicious. Perfect for an adventurous stay for our boys 14th birthday weekend.
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J
Julian
September 2025
With pets
This was a super last-minute booking, despite knowing that it was going to be pretty wet all weekend. Despite the rain, this was a magical place and my son and I had a special time together. The rain maybe made it even more special.
Anna is lovely and very helpful and their dog spent quite a lot of time with us because he realised we would continue to throw a stick for it until we went to sleep. Which was bliss!
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R
Rebecca
August 2025
With kids
Fantastic site, in a great location with really good facilities.
First glamping experience for my daughter and she's now a real fan.
Mark was a great host!
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Hayley
August 2025
With pets
We absolutly would recommend a stay in the Yurt, it had everything we needed for the perfect stay. The location is ideal for a quiet, reflective break in nature. Listening to the owls and nightjars calls from the woods of an evening was a particular highlight. If you need a detox from the hectic world to relax and restore its the perfect space to do so.
The salad, steak and cheese hamper was amazing value, and the coffee and pancake stuff provided made us feel so welcome.
Thanks Anna, i am sure we will be back again, Hayley, Andy & Greta doggo 🐶
See moreS
Sean
July 2025
Group trip
We loved the glamping experiance yurt was nice and cosy and had everything we needed inside from pots and pans glasses to camp stove and kettle . Hot tub was fantastic stayed warm for hours. Farm animals are loverly and we enjoyed feeding them. Farm dog alfie is the cutest little dog ever. Christian is a fantastic host and we felt very relaxed. X
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L
Lucy
July 2025
With kids
We had a wonderful family weekend in Little Owl. The yurt was very comfortable and there was everything we could need nearby in the kitchen and toilet/shower block. We all enjoyed exploring the woods then relaxing in the hammock and roasting marshmallows over a campfire. We had two great day trips, canoeing on the Wye and hiring bikes in the Forest of Dean. Such a beautiful area, would definitely recommend!
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L
Leigh
July 2025
Weekend Trip to 68 Degrees West
We loved our stay here, well equipped and beautiful surroundings. The facilities were also exceptionally clean.
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Clarice
July 2025
A
Alisa
June 2025
With pets
This place is something else. I've stayed for 3 nights and honestly, this is the best place to recharge . Gorgeous woodlands, amazing paths for walks , extra special cabin w
ith little touches and Anna is an amazing host. I would absolutely love to come back . Not felt so relaxed for years . Thank you
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jmdando
June 2025
With pets
Lovely pod with the most wonderful view to the Uffington White Horse. Had everything I needed and more - wood-fired hot tub was a first for me!
The hosts were super-friendly snd helpful. Plus a beautiful wildflower meadow to enjoy. Would definitely recommend this for a relaxing break 😊
See moreWye Valley AONB camping guide
Where to go
North Wye Valley
Hereford and the Herefordshire Lowlands are the gateway to the northern part of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where the mosaic farmlands and forests provide opportunities to escape the crowds. Admire the views from the Hole in the Wall, sample the region’s famous cider, or explore the iron-age hill fort at Capler Camp. Hikers congregate in the valley’s only town Ross-on-Wye, which sits about a third of the way from the top of the AONB and has access to several walking and cycling trails, most notably the Wye Valley Walk.
Central Wye Valley
The stretch of river between Ross-on-Wye and the adventure capital of Symonds Yat is arguably the most scenic. Take to the water to canoe or stand-up paddleboard, stop for lunch at a country pub by the water, or visit the mediaeval Goodrich Castle, then pitch your tent at a riverside campsite. To the east, the Forest of Dean has miles of wooded trails for walkers and cyclists.
South Wye Valley
The southern Wye Valley, from Goodrich Castle to Chepstow, is home to some of its star attractions. Tintern Abbey and Chepstow Castle are both must-sees, while the Devil’s Pulpit lookout and Lower Wye Gorge afford far-reaching views. Campers can find plenty of choice around Chepstow, the starting point of two long-distance hikes: the Wales Coast Path and the Offa's Dyke trail.
Wales
The market town of Monmouth is a strategic basecamp for exploring beyond the Welsh borders. Foodies make a beeline for Abergavenny, known as Wales’ gastronomic capital, and crowds descend on its annual food festival. Further west, the rugged peaks of the Black Mountains mark the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, where hillside hikes and backcountry camping await.
Walking in the Wye Valley
Kayaking and canoeing undoubtedly offer a fantastic way to see the Wye Valley, but these borderlands are also incredible walking country.
- Stroll the river’s edge on a bit of the Wye Valley Walk, or dedicate two weeks to the whole route, camping along the way. This long-distance path follows the river from source to mouth, covering 136 miles and criss-crossing the border as it goes.
- A 177-mile national trail, Offa’s Dyke Path follows the border along the route of Anglo-Saxon earthworks. It’s a 2-week challenge to conquer the whole route, but if camping in the area, just pull on your boots and choose a section for a day on the trail.
- Both the Wye Valley Walk and Offa’s Dyke meet in Chepstow, along even more long-distance paths like the Gloucestershire Way, Monmouthshire Way, and Wysis Way. In fact, Chepstow has its own walking festival, sealing its status as the Wye Valley walking hub.
- Further afield, there are almost unlimited walking trails in the Forest of Dean, including a sculpture trail for added interest.
Family-friendly camping in the Wye Valley
If you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday, camping in the Wye Valley ticks all the boxes. Camping in such a rich natural area offers the chance for kids to get stuck into wholesome activities like bug hunting, wildlife watching, den building, and tree climbing. The valley’s kayaking, canoeing, and climbing opportunities also appeal to families with teenagers as well as tots. In addition to all this, you’ll find kid-friendly sites throughout the region, many with facilities and activities designed with little ones in mind, from steam trains to high-ropes courses.
Popular towns in the Wye Valley
The Wye Valley’s big attraction is that there are no big attractions (at least, not man-made ones) and no big cities. Nature is the star of the show. With this, campers can spend days walking, cycling, canoeing, and kayaking to discover the area. But the valley’s picturesque villages and market towns are perfect for stocking up on supplies and finding rainy day activities.
- Calling in to Symonds Yat on the Yat Gorge is almost a must, as the village links the Wye Valley with the Royal Forest of Dean and has a reputation for all things related to the great outdoors.
- The only market town within the AONB, Ross-on-Wye is set high above the river with a 700-year-old church and mediaeval half-timbered buildings. Goodrich Castle isn’t far either, and one of the best-preserved mediaeval castles in England.
- The village of Tintern is another popular destination thanks to the ruined Cistercian Tintern Abbey, founded in 1131.
- Outside of the AONB but still on the river’s edge, the book-town of Hay-on-Wye is world-famous for its bookshops and Hay Festival of arts and literature in late May and early June.
- With rural beauty all around, it might seem a shame to head into the city, but Hereford is pretty small and worth a stop for its mediaeval history and famous Mappa Mundi, Europe’s largest mediaeval map.
Top things to do in the Wye Valley
- Kayak, canoe, or raft through the Lower Wye gorge.
- Take a walk to see the scenery. Try a portion of the 177-mile Offa’s Dyke Path or the Wye Valley Way.
- Go climbing. Experienced climbers can give Symonds Yat Rock a go, while beginners can join a guide or head for a high-rope adventure in the Forest of Dean.
- Find a spot on the border where you can stand with one foot in England and one foot in Wales.
- Pick up some holiday reading from a bookshop in Hay-on-Wye.
- Go bat watching! The Wye Valley is internationally important for its bats, especially the rare lesser horseshoe bat.
- Pop in to Hereford Cathedral to see Europe’s largest mediaeval map, the Mappa Mundi.
- Enjoy a BBQ or campfire meal using local produce. A Hereford beef burger and Wye Valley beer, anyone?
