Wye Valley, Protected natural area in Monmouthshire, Great Britain.
Description
The Wye Valley follows the River Wye for about 136 miles through limestone gorges and native woodlands from the Cambrian Mountains to its mouth at the Severn Estuary near Chepstow. The protected area includes steep wooded slopes, river meanders, and cave systems within the limestone rock.
History
Archaeological findings in caves document human settlement from around 12,000 years ago during the Palaeolithic period. The region was later settled and fortified as border territory between England and Wales.
Culture
The river drew travelers in the 18th century who sketched its banks and looked for scenic views. This early form of organized nature observation shaped how people experience and value landscape.
Practical
The Wye Valley Walk offers numerous access points along the river for hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching. Water levels can vary greatly after rainfall and affect access to some riverside sections.
Did you know?
Limestone formations in the Woolhope area contain Silurian period fossils showing traces of a tropical sea that covered the region around 430 million years ago. The fossilized sea creatures are visible in rock faces and quarries.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Herefordshire).
Tintern Abbey
1.1 km
Puzzlewood
10.3 km
Monmouth Castle
13.9 km
Monnow Bridge
13.5 km
Dean Forest Railway
10.3 km
Clearwell Castle
8.7 km
Church Cottage
4.2 km
Lydney Park
8.2 km
Clearwell Caves
9.4 km
Piercefield House
4.1 km
King Arthur's Cave
16.1 km
Belmont Abbey, Herefordshire
39.1 km
Wilton Castle
25.3 km
River Lugg
37.7 kmWyelands
7.8 km
Troy House
12.3 km
Cleddon Hall
5.3 km
Chepstow Railway Bridge
5.5 km
Old Wye Bridge
5.2 km
Harewood Park
28.6 km
Monmouth Museum
13.9 km
Treago Castle
25 km
Shire Hall
13.8 km
Treowen
14.2 km
Pembridge Castle
20.4 km
Eastbach Court
16.3 km
Coleford Great Western Railway Museum
11.5 km
1 Monk Street
13.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes