Hidden gem market town that's right on the border of England and Wales
There are plenty of towns and cities competing for tourists in the UK, from the bright lights of London and Edinburgh to the seaside charm of Cornwall of the culture of Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon.
However there is one small, unassuming market town that can put them all to shame, having invented tourism itself in the 1700s - as the first place people came to see the sights in the UK.
With a population of just over 10,000 people, Ross-on-Wye in Herefordshire is known as the “birthplace” of British tourism. The town’s claim comes due to its popularity with sightseers in the mid 18th century who came to the area for pleasure boat tours.
Ross-on-Wye was the first place to have a guide book written about it, informing visitors of which sights and attractions to see and what activities to do, way back in 1782, The Express reports.
Many of the things that made it so attractive to visitors in the 1700s are the same things that make a trip to Ross-on-Wye a great idea today. For example, the town is part of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, meaning it is surrounded by stunning views and walks.
Eight remote and beautiful but brutal jobs if you want to leave it all behind
Its position means that you can walk on either side of the border, with plenty of beautiful outdoor hikes situated in both England and Wales within easy reach of the charming riverside town.
The charming market town of Ross-on-Wye has been drawing visitors for hundreds of years (Savills, Cheltenham)“Set in glorious Herefordshire countryside Ross is the perfect base for a visit to the area,” explains Visit Dean Wye.
“Within easy reach are the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley and Symonds Yat, Goodrich Castle, Tintern Abbey, the Malverns, and several large centres such as Cheltenham, Hereford (Hereford Cathedral contains the Mappa Mundi and chained library), Gloucester and Cardiff. There are great opportunities to walk, canoe, cycle and fish as well as shop.”
There is plenty to explore in the town itself, as well - with beautiful historic buildings and local crafts to explore. “Much of the town is designated a conservation area and at its heart is the historic market house, a listed ancient monument, built of the old red sandstone and housing an art and craft gallery and one of the town’s two tourist information sites,” Visit Dean Why says.
“Ross is well known for its many excellent independent and specialist shops, galleries, restaurants, cafes and hotels, many of which are dog friendly. Dominating the town is the spire of St Mary the Virgin Parish Church and next to it is the famous Prospect Gardens.
“From here you can take in wonderful views of the horseshoe bend in the Wye, the Black Mountains, Brecon Beacons and Malvern Hills. The town is dotted with historic buildings dating back to the 16th century and has attracted visitors since the 18th century.”
And in the summer, Ross-on-Wye becomes a hub of culture and entertainment. The site adds: “During the summer months Sunday afternoon concerts are held at the Bandstand by the river.
“There is the small but perfectly formed Phoenix Theatre with regular shows by local groups and film screenings and Ross is also known for its many festivals and lively music scene.”
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
