The stunning view from Symonds Yat Rock
The Wye Valley is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
which means that this area is an internationally important protected landscape.

“Peaceful and beautiful.”
"We stayed for the weekend, I had not been to the area before, it's was stunningly beautiful.
The cottage we booked was perfect, it was roomy, very clean, extremely well kept and we were provided with every amenity we could have wished. "
The Wye Valley straddles the borders of England and Wales and is one of the most scenic landscapes in south west Britain. The River Wye (Welsh: Afon Gwy) is the fifth longest river in the UK. The area designated as an AONB surrounds a 72-kilometre (45 mile) stretch in the lower part of the river Wye from Hereford to Chepstow. This area covers parts of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire, and is particularly famous for the limestone gorge at Symonds Yat.
. The wildlife, archaeology and industrial heritage is historically important and the Wye Valley is considered to be the birthplace of the British tourism industry and was part of the Victorian fascination for the 'picturesque' .
Ross-on-Wye is the only town within the AONB, but Hereford, Monmouth, Coleford and Chepstow are nearby.

The Wye Valley, the Forest of Dean and Symonds Yat has much to offer visitors wishing to enjoy an all year round outdoor activity and nature holiday. Whatever time of year you choose to visit Symonds Yat we hope you will stay at Paddocks Cottages and take advantage of all that the Wye Valley has to offer. Here are just some of the reasons to visit.
During April to August the viewing point on Symonds Yat Rock is a perfect spot to watch hunting Peregrine Falcons, while they raise their young.
Goshawks and Buzzards can also be seen from the Yat Rock.
For further information please visit the RSPB website.
Fallow deer roam throughout the Wye Valley - especially on the Gloucestershire and Forest of Dean side.
The farming of wild boar in Britain was popular in the 1970's and between the late 1990's and in early 2000 farmed boar 'escaped' and are now feral throughout the forest. Wild boar are generally nocturnal.
The River Wye is a majestic river, full of wildlife and colour and renowned as being one of the best rivers for canoeing and kayaking. There are many local companies offering canoe trips to suit all levels of experience - from family fun days out on the river to serious canoeists.
The varied terrain and scenery of the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean is perfect for cyclists of all abilities. Keen mountain bikers will enjoy challenging dedicated forest tracks. Families can enjoy safe cycle tracks away from busy roads and road riders will appreciate the country roads. Lockable cycle storage is available at Paddocks Cottages
There are numerous places to eat and drink in the Wye valley and Forest of Dean and you will be sure to find great food to suit all tastes and budgets. We have our own favourites and will be happy to make suggestions.
There are many excellent pubs serving locally brewed ale and ciders in the Wye Valley. There are also comfortable walker-friendly country pubs serving bar food as well as award winning gastro pubs'. You won't go hungry!
Whether you fancy an award-winning restaurant, an Indian or Chinese meal or a pub with a restaurant you will be spoiled for choice. The nearby towns of Ross on Wye and Monmouth offer a wide variety of cuisine and there are many excellent eating places in the Wye valley.

Symonds Yat, Ross on Wye
Herefordshire, HR9 6BL
Tel: 01600 890024
Email: info@paddockscottages.co.uk
