A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Perhaps the most unspoilt river valley in Britain, the Wye flows through breathtaking scenery rich in both Welsh and English history.
England
Landscape
May
Jun
Aug
Sep
Average group size: 10-12
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
This is a Grade 5 moderate holiday which includes full day walks with moderate amounts of ascent and descent. Walks will last around 6 hours including stops and include a daily average mileage of 9.2 miles. The Wye Valley Walk is not challenging for most of its length but there are some steep rocky sections, muddy hillsides (depending on the weather at the time) as well as gently undulating countryside and riverside paths.
The daily distances average 9.2 miles per day which is slightly higher than our standard Grade 5 holidays, however due to the terrain and the ascents/descents covered, this holiday is within grade.
See the 'Proposed Itinerary' section for more information.
Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.
Overview
Rambling through the Wye Valley, the ruins of Tintern Abbey come into view – beauty in stone in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The chants of long-ago monks seem to echo round these stones.
Perhaps the most unspoilt river valley in Britain, the Wye flows though breathtaking scenery rich in both Welsh and English history. From the source in northern Wales down to the Bristol Channel, the river passes many evocative and famous sites – Symonds Yat, Kilvert country, Tintern Abbey – and conjures up vivid memories of the 19th century Wye-tourers in search of the ‘picturesque’.
The area enjoys a relatively mild climate and its vineyards continue the tradition of producing wines probably started by the Romans. Over 800 years ago an abbey was built at Tintern and its ruins still stand tall. Further downstream lies the historic border town of Chepstow with its early Norman, stone-built castle.
We’ll follow sections of the Wye Valley Walk, the Offa’s Dyke Path and surrounding trails meandering along the hillsides high above the majestic River Wye often emerging at superb viewing points such as Symonds Yat Rock and the Eagle’s Nest. We can take in the area’s rich history and discover the myths and legends of these borderlands.
You might also be interested to know this holiday is combined with our Gower Peninsula tour; please see The Gower Peninsula & Wye Valley
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
71406
The most challenging section of the entire Offa's Dyke route. We walk approximately 66 miles of the central section south from Chirk to Kington.
Walk the Northern Section of the Offa's Dyke Path. This covers the route's first 50 miles southwards from Prestatyn to Chirk Castle.
We'll walk the southern 70 miles of the route south from the traditional English town of Kington to the city gates of Chepstow.
Walk Wales' Gower Peninsula with arguably some of Britain's best coastal scenery. Followed by perhaps the most unspoilt river valley in Britain, the Wye flows through breathtaking scenery rich in both Welsh and English history.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Meals
Accommodation
Independent arrival to the Speech House Hotel in Coleford. Check in is from 2pm. There may be time to explore the Forest tracks near to the hotel. Your leader will meet you for an evening briefing before dinner.
All dinners will be taken in the hotel restaurant throughout your stay.
Meals
Accommodation
Standing in open countryside above the River Wye, Goodrich Castle is one of the finest and best preserved of all English medieval castles.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
A private coach takes us to the village of Goodrich, for the start of the walk along Coppet Hill and then beside the Wye looking up to the craggy heights of Coldwell Rocks; a nesting place for Peregrines in the spring and summer months. The return walk is via the meadows of Welsh Bicknor over Coppet Hill to meet the coach at Goodrich Castle. There will probably be time for refreshments in the castle tea rooms and an optional visit to the impressive ruins (English Heritage charges apply).
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
A private coach takes us on the short journey to St Briavels for the start of today's walk. You drop down to walk alongside a petrifying stream and walk the uplands above to the Wye and bordering the Forest of Dean to visit Newland church, the “Cathedral of the Forest”. Later you will reach the Kymin viewpoint and descend to the market town of Monmouth.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Private transport will take you to Lower Lydbrook, beside the Wye and walk over farm-land to Coldwell Rocks where, below, you'll see the path on the opposite bank of the Wye where the first walk was taken. After visiting Symonds Yat Rock, you will walk next to the Wye and visit some impressive geological features. Finally, cross the Wye on a suspension bridge to visit the famous Seven Sisters viewpoint, a prehistoric cave and an iron-age fort before meeting the transport at Ganarew.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Take a short coach ride back to St Briavels, and set off through farmland and forest above the Wye, visiting some of the best-preserved parts of Offa’s Dyke. You will reach the Devil’s Pulpit rock with views of Tintern Abbey far below and the return is through coppiced woodland and a long-forgotten railway line to Tintern.
Meals
Accommodation
Tintern Abbey is a national icon; still standing in roofless splendour on the banks of the River Wye nearly 500 years since its tragic fall from grace.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
The start of this final walk is where you finished on day 5 at Tintern. Today there is an option to visit Tintern Abbey, (charges apply) then walk in the valley of the Angidy stream which used to be a power source for industry long ago. You'll visit the remains of Tintern Furnace then reach rolling uplands and Cleddon Falls, returning along Woodsworth’s path high above the Wye.
Meals
Depart the Speech House Hotel after breakfast. Check out is by 10.30am.
We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and look forward to welcoming you on another soon.
From (GBP)£999
Departure dates for your selected tour
9th May 2025 - 15th May 2025 (6 Nights)
20th Jun 2025 - 26th Jun 2025 (6 Nights)
8th Aug 2025 - 14th Aug 2025 (6 Nights)
5th Sep 2025 - 11th Sep 2025 (6 Nights)
Private coach transport to and from the trailheads each walk day is included.
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
Built in 1676 as a hunting lodge for King Charles II, the independently owned three-star Speech House Hotel has been refurbished to offer modern facilities and comfortable rooms while retaining its period features. It is located five miles from the Wye Valley in the heart of the Forest of Dean.
Bedrooms are situated in the main house or in the courtyard, with many offering forest views. All rooms are decorated in a traditional style and have TVs with Freeview and tea and coffee-making facilities. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the public areas of the hotel.
The hotel dining room is particularly memorable as it serves as the Court Room for the Verderers who enforce the laws concerning hunting rights in the forest. Technically the Verderers can still apply the death penalty for poaching deer. In practise this power is rarely used but we strongly advise against any nefarious activity just in case!
Trip Information
This is a Grade 5 moderate holiday which includes full day walks with moderate amounts of ascent and descent. Walks will last around 6 hours including stops and include a daily average mileage of 9.2 miles. The Wye Valley Walk is not challenging for most of its length but there are some steep rocky sections, muddy hillsides (depending on the weather at the time) as well as gently undulating countryside and riverside paths.
The daily distances average 9.2 miles per day which is slightly higher than our standard Grade 5 holidays, however due to the terrain and the ascents/descents covered, this holiday is within grade.
See the 'Proposed Itinerary' section for more information.
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
When budgeting for your holiday, you will need to consider drinks, non-included entrance fees, optional excursions you may choose to participate in locally and any souvenirs or additional services such as laundry.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
To reach the hotel…
by car: from Chepstow (J2 of M48) take the A466 north towards Monmouth. Stay on this road around the outskirts of Chepstow, through Tintern and Llandogo and across Bigsweir Bridge. Immediately after crossing the bridge, bear right up the hill following the signposts for Coleford.
From the M5 southbound - exit junction 11 onto A40 westbound then A48 to Elton before taking the A4151 via Littledean. Then take the B4226 on the Speech House Road.
by rail: travel to Lydney railway station or Chepstow railway station. There is no taxi rank at Lydney and taxis are infrequent at Chepstow, so it is advisable to pre-book a taxi from the station to the hotel – 8 miles from Lydney and 16 miles from Chepstow.
Lydney Station approx 15 minute drive
Chepstow Station approx 25 minute drive
Further away, you can take a train to Gloucester and the connection is then by No. 24 bus can be caught at the Gloucester transport hub. This bus only operates every two hours.
by coach: the nearest bus station is in Chepstow, located about 16 miles from the hotel.
Taxis: it is advisable to pre-book a taxi from the bus or railway stations to the hotel. The following taxi companies may be able to help you and provide you with a quote: CDS Taxis – 01594 834834 or Freeway Travel – 07773 505675
The cost from Lydney to the hotel is around £20 however we advise you to obtain quotes prior to travelling. You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the hotel; www.rome2rio.com
The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk
Meeting your tour leader and fellow walkers: Please check the time of dinner (approximately 7:00pm) on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the hotel lounge half an hour before dinner for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
This holiday is offered on a half board basis, with breakfasts and evening meals taken in the hotel restaurant. The Verderer’s Court restaurant has beamed ceilings and offers modern European cuisine. The hotel provides a four day menu with a good selection of starters, main courses and desserts, so during your stay the menu will be repeated on a couple of days but there are various choices to choose from. There is also a separate vegetarian/vegan menu and specific dietary requirements are well catered for.
Please note that packed lunches are not included in the holiday price but these can be purchased from the hotel or picnic supplies can be purchased locally.
Footwear
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Holiday Specific Kit
In addition, we recommend that you bring a flask with you on your walks each day. Due to the time of year, it is sensible to bring a hot drink out with you to help keep warm.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
Maps, Guidebooks & More
Our intended route is covered by the following map:
Ordnance Survey Outdoor Leisure series (1:25,000):
OL14 Wye Valley & The Forest of Dean
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for United Kingdom
No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.
Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
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