Goodrich Castle and the River Wye at Ross
Herefordshire
Goodrich Castle sits on a red sandstone bluff above a wide loop of the Wye south of Ross-on-Wye, and the 9.6 km circuit from the village takes in both the riverside and the castle in a single loop. The route drops to the river and follows the Wye north, with the castle visible on its bluff above throughout, before a steep climb up the sandstone to the English Heritage site and a farmland return to Goodrich. Admission is charged for the inner precinct, though the outer ward and exterior are freely accessible.
The red sandstone soil gives this walk a warm, iron-rich smell quite different from the limestone of the gorge at Symonds Yat further upstream. The riverside sections are flat and easy with gravel beach access for paddling and drinking. The castle climb is steep in one short section and the farmland return requires leads as sheep and cattle are grazed in the lower fields. The Hostelry at Goodrich is a solid post-walk option.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 9.6 km (6.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 3 hr 15 min
- Walk Type
- River, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- English Heritage facilities at the castle; the Hostelry at Goodrich
- Parking
- Goodrich village car park, HR9 6HY
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Goodrich Castle and the River Wye at Ross dog friendly?
Yes, this is a great option for a day out with your dog. The 9.6 km circuit combines flat riverside walking with gravel beach access for paddling, and the dramatic castle ruins make for a memorable backdrop throughout. The Hostelry at Goodrich is a solid post-walk stop once you're done.
Can dogs be off lead at Goodrich Castle and the River Wye at Ross?
Dogs can enjoy some off-lead freedom on the riverside sections, but leads are required on the farmland return where sheep and cattle are grazed in the lower fields. If you're heading into the castle's inner precinct, it's worth checking English Heritage's own dog policy before you go, as access rules can vary.
What should I know before visiting Goodrich Castle and the River Wye at Ross with my dog?
The riverside stretches are flat and easy with good river access for a drink or a paddle, but there's one steep section climbing up the red sandstone bluff to the castle, so it's worth being prepared for that. Livestock graze the lower farmland fields on the return leg, so keep leads handy for that part of the route. Parking is available at Goodrich village car park, HR9 6HY.
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