The Wye Valley AONB is steeped in history. This borderland territory was disputed for over a thousand years, so castles and fortifications are a prominent part of the scene – including the imposing castles at Chepstow and Goodrich. These, together with the majestic ruins of Tintern Abbey, spectacular viewpoints around every turn in the river, and intriguing industrial and archaeological remains, guarantee a wealth of attractions for the visitor.
Chepstow Castle Tintern Abbey The Kymin
Goodrich Castle
Goodrich castle is one of the most complete medieval castles in Britain, built to guard a ford across the River Wye.
Wilton Castle
The romantic ruins of a restored 12th century castle and 16th century manor house (not open) on the banks of the River Wye near Ross-on-Wye
Sufton Court
Small Palladian mansion built in 1788 by James Wyatt for James Hereford near Mordiford. The park laid out by Repton
Langstone Court,
Mediaeval Manor House at Llangarron
Historic sites in the Forest of Dean
St Briavels Castle
A moated Norman castle built originally as a hunting lodge for King John. Currently a Youth Hostel
Museums
There is a wealth of history about the Wye Valley that can be found in our museums and heritage centres. The following are some that are well worth a visit
Chepstow Museum
The museum is housed in a former apothecary's dwelling, built in 1796. Displays trace the growth of Chepstow as an important port city, and its subsequent decline and transformation into a busy market town. A collection of 18th and 19th century prints and drawings illustrate the beauty of Chepstow and the Wye Valley.
Nelson Museum, Monmouth
The Nelson Museum was founded in 1924, following the bequest to Monmouth by Lady Llangattock of her collection of material relating to the famous admiral
Monmouth Castle and Regimental Museum Small volunteer run museum with free admission. Displays the history of the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers and is housed in the precincts of Monmouthshire Castle
Market House Heritage Centre, Ross on Wye
Hereford Museum and Art Gallery , Hereford Housed in a spectacular Victorian gothic building, has been exhibiting artefacts and works of fine and decorative art connected with the local area since 1874
Entries are being invited for the 2018 Wye Valley AONB Farming Awards, celebrating landonwers who make an outstanding contribution to the landscape.
Our new Wye Valley River Festival 2018 is now live!