Best attractions and places to see around Bolstone are centered near the River Wye, offering a mix of historical sites and natural beauty. The region is known for its market towns and significant landmarks. It serves as a gateway to the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean, providing diverse exploration opportunities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Fabulous and iconic Sandstone building, centrepiece of Ross on Wye.
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According to Harper Bridges - This bridge was commissioned by the congregations of the churches of Sellack Boat and King’s Caple and built in 1895. The towers are of tubular cast iron, with nameplate transoms embossed “Louis Harper AIMCE, Maker, Aberdeen”. The original cables to common anchorages are still in place, as are their hangers. However, at some stage (nobody seems to know when or why) further short cables were clamped to the original, presumably to support areas of wear and avoid cable replacement. This has led to crowding at the saddles. However, the bridge is still used and the local churches continue to hold their ‘Bridge Thanksgiving’ ceremony each year. This area is noted for its flooding but so far the bridge has held since the arched deck remains above the flow, although the approaches are inundated. It lacks the original longitudinal deck boarding but the original camber is well maintained. This bridge is the best illustration of the method of attachment of hangars to main cable employed by John and Louis Harper
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A lovely little town built on hilly ground so the streets go up and down, with the Market Hall on stilts in a prominant location.
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The Cathedral Green is open to bikes and Church Street, leading off it to the north, has several good cafes you can stop at.
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Great stopping point and a hub for rides in all directions. Plenty of coffee shops
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Nestled by the River Wye, Ross-on-Wye is a charming market town. Originating from the first travel guidebook by William Gilpin in 1782, it inspired picturesque tourism. It has independent stores, 19th-century mock-Gothic walls, a Gazebo Tower folly, and colourful homes cascading down the hillside to the river.
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Foy and Hole-in-the-Wall are two villages near Ross-on-Wye that are actually split by the River Wye. Foy is on one side and Hole-in-the-Wall is on the other. In times gone by crossing from one part to the other was only possible by ferry or ford but in 1876 a suspension bridge was built and a very pretty one it is too.
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Perched above the River Wye, Ross is a pretty market town that played a significant role in nature tourism's history. In 1770, William Gilpin started organising boat trips down the Wye. Some believe that this was the very origin of the Picturesque Movement, leading people to appreciate the natural world and its beauty. Ross has a lot to offer the hiker. Gateway to the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean, it is also within easy driving distance of the Brecon Beacons, the Cotswolds and the Malverns.
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Yes, several attractions around Bolstone are suitable for families. You can explore the historic Hereford Cathedral, which houses the Mappa Mundi. The charming Ross-on-Wye Market House and the wider Ross-on-Wye Market Town offer a pleasant environment with independent shops. Additionally, the Sellack Suspension Bridge provides an interesting walk across the River Wye.
Bolstone is rich in history. The magnificent Hereford Cathedral, a site of worship since the 8th century, is a must-see, home to the Mappa Mundi. The market towns of Ross-on-Wye, including the Ross-on-Wye Market House and St Mary’s Church, played a significant role in the history of nature tourism. You can also visit impressive river crossings like the Sellack Suspension Bridge and the historic Wilton Bridge.
Yes, the area around Bolstone offers various hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes such as the Fownhope Parish Stocks – River Wye Walk loop or the Nether Wood loop. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Bolstone guide, which includes routes near the River Wye.
Beyond visiting historical sites, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous hiking trails, including easy routes and more moderate running trails like the Haugh Woods loop. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the Kings Caple Common – Hoarwithy Bridge loop. For detailed routes, check out the Easy hikes around Bolstone, Running Trails around Bolstone, and Cycling around Bolstone guides.
The region is characterized by its proximity to the River Wye, which is a prominent natural feature. Many attractions, like Ross-on-Wye Market Town, are perched above or nestled by the river. You can also experience the scenic beauty of the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean, which are gateways for diverse exploration.
Visitors frequently praise the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Hereford Cathedral is admired for its architecture and historical artifacts like the Mappa Mundi. The charming market towns, such as Ross-on-Wye, are appreciated for their independent shops, cafes, and picturesque views, often inspiring a sense of 'picturesque tourism'.
Yes, the area features several historically significant bridges. The Sellack Suspension Bridge, built in 1895, is an impressive footbridge linking two parishes. Another notable structure is the Wilton Bridge, a fine red sandstone bridge constructed between 1597 and 1599, located just outside Ross-on-Wye.
Yes, especially in the market towns. Ross-on-Wye Market House and the surrounding town are known for having lots of cafes, pubs, and shops. Many routes in the area also pass by places where you can find food or drinks, ensuring you have options during your visit.
Ross-on-Wye played a pivotal role in the history of nature tourism. In 1770, William Gilpin began organizing boat trips down the River Wye from Ross, which some believe was the very origin of the Picturesque Movement, encouraging people to appreciate natural beauty.
Yes, there are easy cycling routes available. For instance, the Victoria Bridge – The Old Bridge, Hereford loop from Hereford is an easy 14.6 km ride. You can find more options and details in the Cycling around Bolstone guide.
The architecture varies from the grand, Grade I-listed Hereford Cathedral with its ancient origins, to the 19th-century mock-Gothic walls and colorful homes in Ross-on-Wye. You'll also encounter impressive red sandstone bridges like Wilton Bridge, showcasing historical engineering.
Running trails near Bolstone vary in length. For example, the Haugh Woods loop — Wye Valley is about 8 km, and the Bench With View of Wye Valley loop is around 10 km. You can explore more options and their specific distances in the Running Trails around Bolstone guide.


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