The Wye Valley

Whilst the Forest belongs to walkers, the Wye really belongs to the river. Canoeing is one of the area's defining experiences, whether you fancy a gentle few hours or a full day's adventure. Expect wooded banks, herons, kingfishers and perhaps even an otter if you're lucky. Stand-up paddleboarding has also become increasingly popular on the quieter stretches of the river, while several companies offer guided trips, including Inspire2Adventure, for complete beginners.

Walking paths at Tidenham Chase will take you to both Offa's Dyke, the ancient border between Wales and England, and the evocatively named Devil's Pulpit, from where (legend has it) the devil preached to the monks below, tempting them to desert their order. It offers spectacular views over the soaring remains of Tintern Abbey which has inspired poets, painters and travellers for over 250 years. Even if you don't venture inside, it's worth pausing amongst the ruins which seem to emerge from the surrounding woodland, almost becoming part of the landscape itself and the River Wye

For those with trashier general knowledge, the Old Railway Bridge in Tintern is one of the Wye Valley’s many locations used in Netflix’s Sex Education. Railway enthusiasts should visit Tintern’s Old Station (with playground for smaller train spotters) Meanwhile, Parva Farmhouse is a B&B in Tintern serving excellent food for dinner (but not lunch) whilst down the road is Branch & Vine - a lovely spot for a glass of cider or wine)

Another incredible spot to look down upon the great horseshoe bend is from Symond’s Yat Rock, with “falcon”-eye views of the River Wye.  Peregrine falcons and goshawks are often seen riding the thermals above the cliffs, whilst hundreds of feet below the Wye loops lazily through ancient woodland. There’s a friendly, family run (takeaway) café in the Log Cabin selling homemade fare and coffee etc. Alternatively, explore the border castles as you cross into Wales, or brace yourself for some wild swimming. In this direction too is our favourite pub The Black Bear it’s not close but it’s delicious and worth a journey.

If you're driving back to Awre from Chepstow direction, you pass a few good spots to pick up some good local meat.  There’s a well regarded butchers at Hanley Farm Shop just off the main A48 which has reliable meat, so too A&H Hill in Tutshill where the butcher’s wife makes some delicious traditional pastry pies.