About The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean
Heavy Horse Experiences
Coldcroft Farm is just 30 minutes drive from Ganarew with their own working shire horses. They offer experiences working with the Shire Horses and Shire Horse and Cart rides, ideal for taking in the local views at a leisurely pace. Coldcroft Farm Experiences
Wye Valley Cycling & Walking Routes
There are too many to mention! Ganarew is situated in a spectacular part of the Wye Valley around the area of the Wye Gorge and falls within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Whitchurch and Ganarew Parish is blessed with the largest number and greatest length of footpaths of any parish in the whole of the United Kingdom!
Immediately behind Ganarew Cottage you can walk up into the woodland and look out over the Wye Valley, River Wye, into Wales and back into England. Alternatively, head over the A40 to Little Doward and King Arthurs Cave.
Coppett Hill is a 240 acre nature reserve just a few miles away and also has great walks up and over it, or all around the base alongside the River Wye. Finally, there is the famous Symonds Yat and the viewpoint, which is only a few minutes drive away. From the viewpoint you will see Peregrine Falcons as well as the beautiful meandering River Wye in the Wye Valley.
Indoor Activities in the Wye Valley
Hot Pot Pottery - cosy, country potter offering a range of fun pottery activities and pottery for sale.www.hotpotpottery.co.uk.
Outdoor Activities in the Wye Valley
Aside from the walking, there are many other activities around the Wye Valley area including kayaking, canoeing, absailing, rock climbing, mountain biking , horse riding, archery, fishing and golf. For full details, please see the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley tourist information site http://www.wyedeantourism.co.uk/.
Pubs & Restaurants in the Wye Valley Area
- Ye Old Ferrie Inn - www.yeoldferrieinn.com
A charming local pub with stunning views across the valley and honest food. There are lots of outdoor tables on the riverside terrace and a roaring log fire inside.
Dog Friendly.
- The Old Court, Whitchurch - www.oldcourthotel.co.uk
With an historic Tudor Dining Room restaurant, a more informal bar and conservatory and a very large garden, the Old Court provides for everyone.
Dog Friendly.
- Saracens Head, Symonds Yat - www.saracensheadinn.co.uk
A great pub to enjoy a sandwich or a pint during your walk along the Wye. Note it can get quite busy during the summer.
Dog Friendly.
- The Ostrich Inn, Newland - www.theostrichinn.com
A free house renowned for its excellent food with one of the best restaurants in the area, catering for a wide variety of tastes, including vegetarians.
Dog Friendly.
- The Bell, Skenfrith - www.skenfrith.co.uk
A smarter eatery, on the River Monnow and opposite the castle. Great food and wine.
- Lough Pool, Sellack - www.theloughpool.co.uk
A very good pub with lovely food, just north of Ross on Wye. We recently went here and enjoyed a 2 course roast lunch for less than £14/head.
Dog Friendly.
- The Hostelrie, Goodrich - www.thehostelrieatgoodrich.co.uk
Good for a spot of lunch after walking up Coppett Hill or visiting the Castle. The beer garden has swings and there is often live music on a Sunday.
Dog Friendly.
Local Shops & Facilities in the Wye Valley
Local shop
Less than 2 miles away is Whitchurch where you will find ‘Woods of Whitchurch’. Woods is a fantastic local shop selling many groceries including fresh bread, pastries and wine. They often offer take aways, including Pizza on a Friday and Saturday night. If you’d like to check in advance if they stock an item you’re looking for, please call 01600 891021
National Supermarkets
Monmouth has major supermarkets including:
- Waitrose
- Marks & Spencer
- Lidl
- Co-operative
Waitrose will deliver to Ganarew. We are happy to take receipt of an order for you between 12noon and 2pm on your arrival day, but please do give us advance notice.
Cash Point
- The Gulf Petrol station off the A40, between Whitchurch and Ganarew
- Cash back also available at 'Woods of Whitchurch'
Hospital
- Hereford is the most local A&E
Pharmacy
- Monmouth has a Boots and Superdrug on the main Monnow Street