From peaceful riverside strolls and ancient woodland to panoramic hilltops and National Trails, Herefordshire offers some of Britain’s finest walking.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle afternoon wander, a full day’s hike or somewhere to walk the dog before breakfast, you’ll find countless routes within easy reach of every Scenic Stays Herefordshire property.
After a day outdoors, return to your property, soothe tired legs in the hot tub or spa bath, enjoy a barbecue during the summer months or relax beside a log effect fire while planning tomorrow’s adventure.
All of these destinations are easily reached for a half-day or full-day adventure, making Scenic Stays Herefordshire an ideal base for exploring the county on foot.
Walking Destination | Penblaith Barn | Trevase Granary | Old Barn House | Bettws Court Retreats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Symonds Yat Rock
| 24 mins (8.8 miles)
| 20 mins (8.8 miles)
| 20 mins (9.2 miles)
| 28 mins (13 miles)
|
Forest of Dean (Beechenhurst)
| 34 mins (15 miles)
| 33 mins (15 miles)
| 31 mins (16 miles)
| 40 mins (20 miles)
|
Garway Hill
| 15 mins (7 miles)
| 17 mins (5.4 miles)
| 13 mins (5.5 miles)
| 9 mins (3.1 miles)
|
Skenfrith | 10 mins (4.6 miles)
| 14 mins (6.8 miles)
| 13 mins (6.9 miles)
| 18 mins (9 miles)
|
Goodrich Castle
| 20 mins (7 miles)
| 19 mins (7 miles)
| 17 mins (7.4 miles)
| 26 mins (13 miles)
|
The Skirrid
| 28 mins (14 miles)
| 32 mins (17 miles)
| 31 mins (17 miles)
| 34 mins (18 miles)
|
Queenswood Country Park
| 40 mins (21 miles)
| 40 mins (18 miles)
| 40 mins (18 miles)
| 40 mins (17 miles)
|
Malvern Hills (British Camp Car Park)
| 45 mins (25 miles)
| 41 mins (22 miles)
| 38 mins (22 miles)
| 47 mins (26 miles)
|
Black Mountains (Cat’s Back, Black Hill Car Park)
| 53 mins (20 miles)
| 50 mins (18 miles)
| 49 mins (18 miles)
| 44 mins (15 miles)
|
Waterfall Country
| 1 hr 5 mins (48 miles)
| 1 hr 10 mins (50 miles)
| 1 hr 10 mins (51 miles)
| 1 hr 5 mins (49 miles)
|
Offa’s Dyke Path (Hay Bluff Car Park) | 1 hr (26 miles)
| 1 hr 5 min (27 miles)
| 1 hr 4 mins (27 miles)
| 1 hr (25 miles)
|
Wye Valley Walk (Symonds Yat section)
| 24 mins (8.8 miles)
| 20 mins (8.8 miles)
| 20 mins (9.2 miles) | 28 mins (13 miles)
|
Roast & Rambles
| Various nearby locations
| Various nearby locations
| Various nearby locations
| Various nearby locations
|
Approximate driving times shown as a guide.
All of these destinations are easily reached for a half-day or full-day adventure, making Scenic Stays Herefordshire an ideal base for exploring the county on foot.
One of the Wye Valley’s most iconic viewpoints, Symonds Yat Rock offers spectacular panoramic views across the River Wye and surrounding woodland.
Several circular walks begin here, ranging from gentle woodland strolls to longer routes incorporating the historic Symonds Yat hand ferry, riverside paths and King Arthur’s Cave. During spring and summer you may even spot peregrine falcons nesting on the cliffs below.
For route ideas, view the Symonds Yat Walking Trails or enjoy the popular Symonds Yat to Biblins Bridge Circular Walk (if following the circular route, please check that the hand ferry is operating before setting out).
After your walk, we highly recommend stopping for lunch at either Ye Old Ferrie Inn or The Saracens Head Inn, both beautifully positioned beside the River Wye and perfect for relaxing after a morning on the trails.
Our Tip
Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon for quieter trails and the best chance of spotting peregrine falcons soaring above the cliffs. If you're planning the Biblins Bridge Circular Walk, remember to check the Symonds Yat hand ferry is operating before setting out.
The Forest of Dean is one of England’s largest ancient woodlands, offering hundreds of miles of waymarked walking routes through ancient woodland, around peaceful lakes and ponds, and past some of the area’s most fascinating industrial heritage.
Whether you’re looking for an accessible family stroll, a peaceful woodland escape or a longer day exploring the forest, there’s something for every age and ability. Popular destinations include Beechenhurst (Walking Trails at Beechenhurst), Cannop Ponds (Walking at Cannop Ponds) and Mallards Pike (Walking Trails at Mallards Pike), each offering a choice of well-signposted routes through some of the Forest’s most beautiful scenery.
The Forest is particularly spectacular in spring, when bluebells carpet the woodland floor, and throughout autumn as the leaves transform into vibrant shades of gold, copper and crimson.
After your walk, enjoy lunch or coffee at the Beechenhurst Café, or simply relax beside the water at Mallards Pike before heading back to your accommodation.
Our Tip
If you're visiting with children, Beechenhurst is an excellent choice, with a variety of walking routes, the Gruffalo sculpture trail, café, play area and visitor facilities all in one place. For a quieter experience, head to Cannop Ponds early in the morning when the woodland is at its most peaceful.
Garway Hill offers some of the finest sweeping panoramic views across Herefordshire, Monmouthshire, the Black Mountains and, on a clear day, as far as the Brecon Beacons.
Several circular routes explore quiet lanes, rolling farmland and open hilltops, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful countryside walk away from the busier tourist spots.
On a clear evening, it’s also one of our favourite places to watch the sunset.
Our Tip
Visit on a clear day and take a picnic. The uninterrupted views from the summit are some of the finest in Herefordshire.
If you’re looking for a gentler countryside walk, Skenfrith is hard to beat.
The pretty village is home to the historic Norman castle, while the River Monnow flows gently alongside, making it a wonderful place for families. During the warmer months, children love paddling in the shallow waters of the River Monnow before enjoying an ice cream or picnic on the village green.
Longer walks can link Skenfrith with the famous Three Castles route, connecting Skenfrith, White Castle and Grosmont through beautiful rolling countryside.
Our Tip
Pack a towel during the summer months — paddling in the river is often the highlight for younger visitors.
Combining history, woodland and riverside scenery, Goodrich offers one of the area’s most varied walks.
Explore the impressive medieval castle before following footpaths through ancient woodland and alongside the River Wye. Several circular routes include spectacular viewpoints, peaceful woodland sections and traditional country pubs.
Depending on your chosen route, we recommend stopping at The Cross Keys Inn, Ye Old Ferrie Inn or Hen & Dot Café for lunch, coffee or homemade cake.
Our Tip
Combine your walk with a visit to English Heritage's Goodrich Castle for a full day exploring one of the finest medieval castles in the country.
One of the most recognisable peaks on the Welsh border, The Skirrid offers a rewarding climb with breathtaking views across Herefordshire, the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons.
Although relatively short, the ascent is steep in places, making it ideal for walkers looking for a rewarding half-day hike.
The summit is steeped in local legend and is said to have split apart at the moment of Christ’s crucifixion, giving the mountain its distinctive appearance.
Our Tip
Good walking boots are recommended, particularly after wet weather. On a clear day, the panoramic views from the summit are well worth the climb.
One of the best ways to discover Herefordshire is through the county’s excellent collection of waymarked circular walks, which explore peaceful countryside, traditional orchards, historic villages, riverside paths and some of the county’s most picturesque landscapes.
We’ve selected some of our favourite circular walks.
Walk | Why We Recommend It |
|---|---|
Hoarwithy Circular Walk
| A beautiful riverside and countryside walk taking in the striking Italian-inspired church in Hoarwithy. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at The Cottage of Content or The New Harp Inn.
|
John Kyrle Circular Walk | A varied walk around Ross-on-Wye with lovely views and riverside sections. Perfect followed by lunch at The Riverside Inn or The Hope & Anchor.
|
Linton Parish Circular Walk | A peaceful rural walk through quiet farmland and traditional Herefordshire countryside.
|
Leys Hill Circular Walk | Rolling countryside with wide-reaching views and peaceful footpaths.
|
Capler Circular Walk | Woodland, open countryside and beautiful views across the Wye Valley.
|
Marcle Ridge Circular Walk | A rewarding ridge walk with panoramic views across orchards and farmland.
|
Mordiford Circular Walk | One of Herefordshire’s prettiest villages, surrounded by ancient woodland and rolling hills.
|
Woolhope Circular Walk | One of Herefordshire’s prettiest villages, surrounded by ancient woodland and rolling hills.
|
Breinton Springs Circular Walk | A gentle walk exploring the famous springs, orchards and countryside on the outskirts of Hereford.
|
Our Tip
Many of these walks finish close to excellent country pubs or cafés, making them perfect for combining a morning walk with a leisurely lunch before returning to your accommodation.
Queenswood Country Park & Arboretum is a wonderful choice for a relaxed family walk.
With a choice of waymarked trails, accessible paths and one of England’s largest collections of trees, it’s ideal for all ages. Children can burn off energy exploring the woodland, spotting wildlife and following the forest trails, while adults enjoy the peaceful surroundings and seasonal displays.
The shorter trails are perfect for little legs, making Queenswood a great option if you’re looking for a gentle walk rather than a full day’s hike.
After your walk, stop by the café for lunch, coffee or homemade cake before heading home.
Our Tip
Visit in spring to see carpets of bluebells beneath the trees, or in autumn when the woodland comes alive with spectacular shades of gold, amber and red. If you're visiting with younger children, the shorter circular trails are ideal for introducing them to woodland walks without covering long distances.
The distinctive ridge of the Malvern Hills offers some of the finest hill walking in the region, with far-reaching views across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and the surrounding countryside.
Choose a gentle walk along the lower slopes, follow our suggested moderate route or take on the full north-to-south ridge walk for a more challenging day out. Whichever route you choose, the panoramic views make every climb worthwhile.
Our Tip
Pick a clear day if possible and allow plenty of time to stop and enjoy the viewpoints. The exposed ridge can feel noticeably cooler and windier than the surrounding countryside, so take an extra layer even during the warmer months.
If you’re looking for some of the biggest views in the region and more challenging walks, the Black Mountains are well worth the drive.
One of the area’s most popular routes is the spectacular Cat’s Back ridge walk, which rewards walkers with dramatic panoramic views across Herefordshire, the Wye Valley and the Welsh borders. On a clear day, you can see for miles, making it one of the most memorable walks in the region.
Our Tip
After your walk, call in at The Bull's Head, Craswall for a well-earned lunch or drink. It's one of our favourite country pubs and the perfect place to relax after a day in the hills.
Looking for something a little different?
Nestled within the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, Waterfall Country is home to some of the most spectacular waterfall walks in Wales. Woodland trails wind alongside the River Mellte, passing a series of impressive cascades, with several routes even allowing you to walk behind the falling water.
It’s a memorable day out in every season, but particularly spectacular after periods of rainfall when the waterfalls are at their most powerful.
Our Tip
Wear sturdy waterproof footwear, as sections of the paths can be uneven, muddy and slippery, particularly after wet weather. Allow time to stop and enjoy the waterfalls along the way—it's a walk that's best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
For experienced walkers looking to explore further afield, two nationally recognised long-distance trails pass through the surrounding area.
The Wye Valley Walk follows the River Wye for 136 miles, linking the Welsh mountains with the Severn Estuary through ancient woodland, dramatic limestone gorges, riverside meadows and picturesque villages. Many sections can be enjoyed as rewarding day walks during your stay.
The Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail traces the historic English-Welsh border for 177 miles, following the line of King Offa’s eighth-century earthwork. Expect rolling hills, panoramic viewpoints and a wonderful sense of history as you walk through some of the country’s most unspoilt landscapes.
Whether you’re looking to tick off a few miles of a famous National Trail or simply enjoy a memorable day in the countryside, both offer outstanding walking within easy reach of Scenic Stays Herefordshire.
Our Tip
You don't need to complete either trail from end to end. Many of the most scenic sections can be enjoyed as circular or linear day walks, making them perfect to include as part of your stay.
Sometimes the best walks end with a traditional Sunday roast.
Visit Herefordshire’s Roast & Rambles brings together some of the county’s most scenic countryside walks with welcoming country pubs serving excellent Sunday lunches, making it one of our favourite ways to spend a leisurely afternoon.
We particularly recommend Ramble by the Wye, The Wye, Woods & Caves and Garway with the Ponies, all within easy reach of our properties and combining beautiful scenery with excellent places to eat.
Our Tip
Many of the featured pubs are popular on Sundays, so we recommend booking your table in advance before setting off on your walk.
One of the joys of staying in the countryside is that your walk doesn’t have to begin with a car journey.
After booking, you’ll receive access to our online Guest Guide, which includes a selection of recommended walks starting directly from each property. Whether you’re looking for a gentle morning stroll, somewhere to exercise the dog from one of our dog-friendly properties or a longer circular route, you’ll discover quiet country lanes, public footpaths and scenic countryside right on your doorstep.
Families
Gentle woodland walks, picnic spots and accessible trails make Herefordshire a wonderful destination for introducing children to the countryside.
Walking with Dogs
Many of our favourite routes are ideal for four-legged companions, with miles of public footpaths, woodland trails and riverside walks waiting to be explored.
Experienced Walkers
Long-distance trails, ridge walks and challenging hill climbs offer rewarding days out for those looking to cover more miles.
Scenic Viewpoints
From Symonds Yat Rock to the Black Mountains and Malvern Hills, there are countless opportunities to enjoy spectacular countryside views.
Spring
Bluebell woods, blossom-covered orchards, wild garlic, newborn lambs and fresh green landscapes make spring one of the most rewarding times to explore Herefordshire on foot.
Summer
Long evenings, shady woodland, riverside walks and countryside picnics make summer perfect for spending the day outdoors before returning for a barbecue and a relaxing evening.
Autumn
Many guests tell us autumn is their favourite season for walking. The Forest of Dean, Symonds Yat and Queenswood become a spectacular display of reds, golds and copper, while crisp mornings often reveal beautiful mist hanging over the River Wye.
Winter
Quiet footpaths, dramatic skies and cosy country pubs with roaring fires create a completely different walking experience. Wrap up warm and enjoy having many of the county's most beautiful landscapes almost to yourself.
After a day exploring Herefordshire’s countryside, it’s a pleasure to return somewhere comfortable to relax.
Yes. Many routes are recommended on this page and within our Discover the Area section. After booking you’ll also receive access to our online Guest Guide, which includes recommended walks starting from each property to help plan your day.
Symonds Yat Rock is usually our first recommendation thanks to its spectacular views, variety of routes and suitability for walkers of all abilities.
Absolutely. The Forest of Dean (Beechenhurst), Queenswood Country Park and many of Herefordshire’s circular walks are ideal for families.
Yes. Many local walking routes are dog friendly. Please note that some routes pass through farmland where dogs should be kept under close control, particularly around livestock.
Yes. Every property has countryside walks nearby, and our online Guest Guide includes recommended routes starting directly from your accommodation.
Every season offers something different, but autumn is particularly special thanks to the spectacular colours across the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley and Herefordshire countryside.
Whether you’re climbing to panoramic viewpoints, discovering peaceful woodland or simply enjoying an evening stroll through the countryside, Scenic Stays Herefordshire provides the perfect base for your next walking holiday.
