The Golden Valley: Dorstone to Arthur's Stone
Herefordshire
The River Dore gives the Golden Valley its name, and the walk from the village of Dorstone up to the Neolithic burial chamber of Arthur's Stone on the ridge above is one of the most quietly rewarding circuits in Herefordshire. The 7.8 km loop gains around 180 metres on the way to the ridge, taking in meadow paths, a gentle river crossing where dogs can wade, and open farmland on the return. Arthur's Stone sits alone on the hilltop with nothing but grass and sky — one of the most atmospherically sited prehistoric monuments in England.
The meadow sections along the Dore carry warm damp grass and wild garlic in spring, giving way to the drier mineral smell of open ridge pasture on the climb. Cattle graze some of the lower meadows and leads are needed in those fields; the ridge top around Arthur's Stone is open and dogs can range more freely there. The Pandy Inn in Dorstone is the natural post-walk stop.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 7.8 km (4.8 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 45 min
- Walk Type
- River, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- The Pandy Inn in Dorstone for post-walk refreshment
- Parking
- Roadside parking in Dorstone village, HR3 6AN
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Golden Valley: Dorstone to Arthur's Stone dog friendly?
Yes, this is a lovely walk for dogs , a 7.8 km loop that takes in meadow paths, a gentle river crossing where dogs can wade in the River Dore, and open ridge pasture up at Arthur's Stone. After the walk, The Pandy Inn in Dorstone is the natural place to stop for refreshment.
Can dogs be off lead at The Golden Valley: Dorstone to Arthur's Stone?
It depends on where you are on the route. Cattle graze some of the lower meadows along the Dore, so leads are required in those fields. Up on the ridge around Arthur's Stone, the ground is open and dogs can range more freely.
What should I know before visiting The Golden Valley: Dorstone to Arthur's Stone with my dog?
The route climbs around 180 metres to reach the ridge, so it's a moderate outing , worth being aware of if your dog isn't used to longer walks. There's a gentle river crossing where dogs can wade, and cattle in the lower meadows mean you'll need a lead for those sections. Parking is roadside in Dorstone village (HR3 6AN), and The Pandy Inn is on hand for a post-walk stop.
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