The Wye Valley & Forest of Dean

Day 1

We depart the local area and head across country, with a break for lunch, arriving at our hotel late afternoon.

Day 2

This morning, we enjoy a scenic drive to Tintern Abbey. We spend time exploring before visiting the town's craft and antique shops. We continue on to the viewing point at the top of Symonds Yat for spectacular views along the valley. This afternoon we take a boat trip on the River Wye for a cruise through the beautiful Wye Valley finishing up with tea and biscuits at the Old Court Hotel.

Day 3

Today begins with a visit to the beautifully preserved Chepstow Castle, the oldest surviving stone castle in Britain. There's no better place in Britain to see how castles gradually evolved to cope with ever more destructive weaponry - and the grandiose ambitions of their owners. For more than six centuries Chepstow was home to some of the wealthiest and most powerful men of the medieval and Tudor ages. After time to explore the historic market town we journey to Norchard and the Dean Forest Railway. We enjoy a scenic return journey on a steam or heritage diesel train, through the medieval Forest of Dean.

Day 4

This morning, we journey through the famous black and white villages of Weobly & Pembridge stopping at charming Leominster. These medieval villages have some of England's prettiest half-timbered buildings along with art galleries, cosy pubs, and traditional tearooms. This afternoon we visit the Cathedral town of Hereford. Browse the independent shops, explore the old market, or visit the Golden-stone Cathedral with its medieval Mappa Mundi & Chained Library.

Day 5

After breakfast we commence our journey home with suitable stops on route, arriving back late afternoon.

D=Dinner, B=Breakfast