symonds yacht

Symonds Yat is a village and popular tourist destination which straddles the River Wye in England. Famed for its natural river scenery and wooded expanses, Symonds Yat Rock is a limestone outcrop rising some 500 feet rising from the banks of the River Wye.

The river winds its way around the outcrop through a deeply wooded gorge. Yat Rock is one of the best known view points in the and The .

is on the side of the river and is on the Gloucestershire side. The only connection between the two banks are two ancient hand ("pull") ferries by which the ferryman pulls people across the river using an overhead rope, for a small fee. The only connection by road is upstream over Huntsham bridge; this is a five mile trip.

 Symonds Yat West

Symonds Yat Rock is a scenic viewpoint towering 120 metres above the river on the side.

From this viewpoint it is possible, between April and August, to witness a pair of Peregrine Falcons nesting on the cliff side. Volunteers from the help visitors to use telescopes provided in a joint project with Forest Enterprise, owners of the site.

Popular tourist activities in the area include canoeing down the rapids, boat trips, a maze, an oriental garden and many country pubs. The Old Court Hotel in Symonds Yat West was the ancestral home of the Gwillim family and was home to John Graves Simcoe who was governor and one of the founding fathers of Upper Canada.

A favourite pastime for many of the local children is to swim across the river to a small rock on the other side from the renowned hotel, although attempting this in early May while the Spring tides are at their maximum is not advised.

 In 1982 the re-occupation of the site started when three young were reared but the following year the nest was robbed.  After this event in 1984 the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds , in co-operation with the Forestry Commission made a protection scheme and for the first time Peregrine Falcons in the wild were shown to tourists.  Since then the Rock has had many visitors to see the Falcons and volunteers have helped to safeguard these impressive birds.

 During the breeding season the RSPB make powerful telescopes available to visitors, so that you can see right into the nests!

Symonds Yat in the Wye Valley

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Symonds Yat Rock – The Ultimate Visitor Guide (2024)!

If you’re heading out on a Wye Valley Tour, you really cannot miss a visit to Symonds Yat Rock.

It’s perched 120 metres above the River Wye and is now a popular viewpoint that provides spectacular views over the English-Welsh border!

From here, you’ll get a birds-eye view of Symonds Yat village located on either side of the river which snakes through the valley by the cliffside. 

Beyond that, you can take in sweeping views of Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire around the historic Offa’s Dyke border in the Royal Forest of Dean. 

It’s breathtaking and is by far the most impressive viewpoint found in the Wye Valley area. No visit would be complete without it! 

Here’s a complete guide for visiting Symonds Yat Rock and all the things to do here. 

Table of Contents

What is Symonds Yat Rock?

Symonds Yat Rock is a popular tourist attraction and viewpoint that can be found in the Wye Valley.

The limestone outcrop towers 500 feet above the River Wye and is located near Symonds Yat village. The village is split into two parts due to the fact that it straddles both sides of the river bank. 

These two parts are called Symonds Yat East and Symonds Yat West. A small car bridge allows a crossing to either side. 

From the top of the cliff, you can see the River Wye snaking its way through the gorge and into a deep forest glade within the Royal Forest of Dean. 

It’s one of the most popular viewpoints and tourist destinations in the Wye Valley area and has been for hundreds of years! 

The history of Symonds Yat Rock

There have been settlers here at Symonds Yat Rock since the Iron Age over 2500 years ago! 

Evidence from recent excavations suggests that a Hill Fort was built here due to the fact it provided a huge vantage point over the area. 

Up until the 18th century, this part of the country was widely undiscovered being hidden away in the Wye Valley. 

It wasn’t until Reverend William Gilpin made a visit and wrote his famous ‘Observations on the River Wye’ that the area became of interest in 1792.

Gilpin’s book eventually led to the famous ‘Wye Tour’. This was a two-day boat trip along the river which made stops in Ross-on-Wye, Symonds Yat, Goodrich Castle, Monmouth, Tintern Abbey and Chepstow. 

Soon enough, word spread of the beauty to be found in this area and soon enough, tourists were flocking to Symonds Yat. 

Even the famous writer William Wordsworth was amongst them and his observations on Wye Valley encouraged even more visitors. 

This viewpoint soon became extremely popular and tourists from all over the country were visiting the Wye Valley! 

Of course, back in those days, there were no cars to access Symonds Yat Rock and pathways were not as accessible as they are now.

Many Victorian tourists would park their boats up at Symonds Yat on the river and then they would climb up the cliffside in order to visit. This was a bit of a risky venture back then with all that Victorian garb and resulted in a few accidents.

Luckily, it’s far easier to visit Symonds Yat Rock nowadays and there have been a few famous faces visiting here such as Queen Elizabeth II, Anthony Hopkins and Sir Cliff Richard! 

Also, you may recognise this area as a filming location. It was featured in BBC’s Merlin, Shadowlands and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 1! 

It’s now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Wye Valley area protected by the Forestry Commission and one of the top places in the country to spot Peregrine Falcons!

Where is Symonds Yat Rock? & How to visit

Symonds Yat lies on the border of Herefordshire and Gloucestershire in the South of England. 

Many people mistake Symonds Yat for being located in Wales. It’s an easy mistake to make as you’re just a few miles from the country border with Monmouthshire nearby! 

As Symonds Yat is a small place nestled in the countryside, it’s easiest to visit as part of a wider road trip where you cover a number of destinations around the Wye Valley area.

You’ll find it tucked away between Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth and you’ll see a junction to access Symonds Yat on the A40 road.

Or, you could add Symonds Yat as a stop on any number of country walks which run by the River Wye.

Symonds Yat Rock is 120 metres above the village on a limestone outcrop. So, there are a few ways that you can visit:

Park up at Symonds Yat Rock car park

The easiest way to access Symonds Yat Rock is to drive up to the viewpoint and park up in the large car park provided by the Forestry Commission. 

The drive is extremely steep and so you’ll be chugging your car up a single track road with passing places. So, drive with caution! 

A minimum charge of £3 is required for 2 hours parking and this is a little steep considering the viewpoint takes less than 30 minutes to visit. Remember to bring some change.

However, it is well worth it to see the stunning views over Wye Valley and I thought it was worth every penny. 

From the main car park, you’ll take a short, accessible walk to the viewpoint.

It’s accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs as there are flat paths and ramps all the way up to the viewing platform. It’s also dog friendly! 

You’ll also find some public toilets provided free of charge near the parking machines.

Remember to bring change for the car park as pay by phone doesn’t work well with signal!

Symonds Yat Rock postcode is GL16 7PW

Take a hike from Symonds Yat village

If you’re up for more of an adventure, you may like to park up in Symonds Yat village below and then take a steep hike to the viewpoint.

There is a minimum charge of £4 for 4 hours parking in the main tourist car park provided at the back end of the village.

This car park can be tricky to access and is a bit of a bottleneck. It’s only accessed via a single track lane!

You’ll be driving through this tiny village on a narrow road with many tourists and pubs on either side of you! So, again, make sure to drive with caution. 

From the car park, you can hike up to Symonds Yat Rock quite easily and it is well signposted. But, you may be a little breathless when you reach the top as it’s a steep track! 

Ticket prices and opening times

Symonds Yat Rock is completely FREE to visit, you just need to pay for parking at the main car park.

If you’re heading here as part of a hike or you’re walking from Symonds Yat, you aren’t required to pay to visit the viewpoint. 

It’s also open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So, you can visit any time you fancy! Although you won’t be able to see much after sunset in the dark!

Things to do in Symonds Yat Rock

So, what is there to do while you’re here at the viewpoint?

Well, you may be surprised to know that there is actually quite a lot to see and do beyond the main viewing platform.

It’s the perfect spot to explore the Forest of Dean. You can eat a picnic here, visit the café, head out on a hike, spot wildlife and go bird watching!

Here are all the things to do at Symonds Yat Rock. 

Admire the sweeping views of Wye Valley

The first thing that everyone does when they arrive at Yat Rock is head to the main viewing platform to take in the spectacular views of the valley! 

The good news is that you don’t have a long walk to reach this amazing viewpoint – it’s just a 5-minute stroll from the car park.

Once you reach the platform, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the countryside and it will truly take your breath away.

From here, you’ll see the River Wye snaking through the limestone gorge and disappear into the Forest of Dean.

On a clear day, you can see for miles all around and take in some of the countryside views over the English-Welsh Border. There are signposts telling you what you can see in all directions.

You’re so high up here and I could have spent hours just admiring the views.

It’s glorious so make sure that you bring a camera. Even if you’re not an avid photographer, you cannot help but capture the postcard-worthy views.

The best time to visit this viewing platform for photography would be in the autumn, when all the trees turn golden reds and browns! 

Have a coffee in the Symonds Yat Rock Café

Just before the ramp way to the viewpoint, you’ll find a quaint log cabin called the Symonds Yat Rock Café.

It’s been here since 1956, when the Forestry Commission built it in preparation for Queen Elizabeth II’s visit in 1957. She stopped by the Log Cabin on the 24th April that same year. 

Ever since, it’s been a popular stop for visitors where you can buy teas, coffees, sandwiches and ice creams – even postcards of the area!

Although there is no seating inside, there are a few benches outside the cafe where you can relax. It’s extremely popular so prepare to queue on warm days. 

The cafe is open 7 days a week and the opening time for the café is 10 am throughout the year. Closing times change with the seasons. See here for more det a ils. 

Don’t forget to check out the ‘alternative’ viewpoint

Did you know that beyond the main viewing platform at Symonds Yat Rock, there is an alternative viewpoint less than 1000 metres away?

A lot of people miss it when visiting and it’s actually extremely pretty! Plus, you’ll find fewer crowds than at the main platform.

It isn’t as accessible but it’s only a short walk through the forest to get there. 

Another great thing about this platform is that you’ll find benches here to perch on that look out over the views of Wye Valley!

It’s the perfect place to sit awhile and eat your sandwiches with some peace and quiet.

Look out for Peregrine Falcons and Raptors on the Rock!

Symonds Yat Rock is famous for its birdlife. So much so that the area is now monitored and protected by the RSPB. 

It’s known as the best viewing platform in the country to spot Peregrine Falcons. They were long thought to be extinct until a couple settled here in 1982 and nowadays they dominate the area!

There are lots of Raptors on the Rock that fly around the limestone gorge looking for prey. You’ll often find them on the hunt for voles, wood mice and even adders that make a home here on the ground. 

You’ll also witness many other birds from this vantage point. You’ll often see Tawny Owls, Kingfishers, Goshawks and Buzzards flying around the area too.

So, if you’re an avid birdwatcher, grab your binoculars because there will be a lot to see in the air! 

Head out on one of the many Symonds Yat Rock walks

If you’re hoping to head out on a hike around Symonds Yat, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

There are five country walks that are accessible from here and a cycling route if you’re so inclined.

You can head over towards Biblins in The Doward and visit some of the pre-historic caves which are commonly known as King Arthur’s Cave! 

It’s thought that King Vortigern built a castle nearby and the cave is his final resting place. You can read more on how to find the cave and the legend surrounding it here.

There is also the Symonds Yat Trail, Mailscot Wood Trail, Christchurch to Symonds Yat walk and High Meadows Trail. 

All of these walks have different lengths, grades and routes. See here for more details and plan your hike!

Go rock climbing

If you were looking for an adrenalin rush, you may like to book in a rock climbing adventure!

The limestones cliffs surrounding the River Wye and Valley are the perfect spot to try out some easy routes if its your first time.

Plus, you’ll be surrounded by some spectacular views when you start abseiling back down.

Climbing seasons change throughout the year to protect wild birds and falcons during breeding season. So, make sure to plan your climbing trip in advance. 

Check out Inspire2Adventure for more details

Walk down to Symonds Yat village on the River Wye

If you parked in Symonds Yat Rock, it’s really easy to walk down towards the river and visit Symonds Yat village. It’s a gorgeous little place nestled on the water and as pretty as a picture.

While you’re here, you can visit one of the many cafés or pubs and sit outside by the river. Or, head along the tow path by the River Wye.

Another nice idea, if you wanted to explore more of the area, is to take a boat trip along the River Wye.

During the summer months, they have regular trips throughout the day for tourists. Just make sure to bring some cash as no cards are taken on the boat. 

Cruising down the river will be like stepping back in time and you’ll travel just like the Victorians used to on their ‘Wye Tour’. 

Heading on a Wye Valley road trip? 

After you’ve finished exploring Symonds Yat, you simply must explore Wye Valley. In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful areas of the UK that is often overlooked.

From Symonds Yat, you can explore Biblins and check out King Arthur’s Cave in The Doward . Or, head out to the Seven Sisters Rocks. 

You can visit historic sites like the magnificent Tintern Abbey or the Monnow Bridge in the quaint market town of Monmouth.  The Kymin is a great hillside with spectacular views nearby!

Chepstow is a quaint town where you can walk over its river bridge that straddles the English Welsh border. So, you can be in two countries at once! Or, you can explore Chepstow Castle with its dramatic location on the cliffside. 

Ross-on-Wye is also a lovely spot for a tour with their quaint historic market hall or head to the famous Goodrich Castle. This is also where they filmed the hit BBC series of Merlin!

Puzzlewood and Speech House Lake is also not too far from Wye Valley which looks like a fairytale. There are so many walks, towns and places to explore. It’s well worth planning a day trip!

Read more of my South Wales blog posts

How to find the stained glass window on the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail

How to visit Llanthony Priory in the Brecon Beacons

The Crooked Church of St Martin’s in Cwmyoy

The best bookshops in Hay-on-Wye

The 24-hour Hay Castle Bookshop

The legacy of Richard Booth, the self-proclaimed King of Hay

Visit the riverside beach of The Warren

How to visit Dobby’s Grave in Wales

Save this Symonds Yat Rock guide for later! 

Sophie Pearce is the founder of Third Eye Traveller. Always having a restless soul seeking adventure, she has now travelled to over 30+ countries, many of them solo. Leaving her heart in India, which gifted her a "Third Eye", she felt inspired to share her travel stories in the hope of encouraging others to find their inner magic and explore this beautiful world of ours. Even if it's on their own!

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Make sure you’ve got change for the parking,waste of time paying by phone because 9/10 no signal,lucky we were staying locally and were able to go again 28/06/2021

Hi Peter, sorry to hear that but thanks for letting me know! I’ll update my post. Hope you had a nice time there. Sophie x

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Symonds Yat Rock

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Managed by Forestry England, Symonds Yat Rock is a viewpoint well known for its picturesque views, trails linking to the River Wye, range of circular walks into the forest, and bird-watching. Choose from a selection of five walking trails or choose to take the cycle route by bike.

The area has a deep history and an ancient hill fort sat at the clifftop that provided a great vantage point for its Iron age inhabitants, who built the fort 2,500 years ago. The site is now a certified ancient monument.

Its high viewpoint also makes for a brilliant place for bird-watching, being one of the best places in the country to watch Peregrine Falcons. However, with a little patience, you might also spot Goshawks, Sparrowhawks, Buzzards, Tawny Owls, the list goes on.

Special Features

• Historical Interest
• Rural location
• Children welcome
• Dogs welcome
• Accepts groups
• Coach parties
• On-site cafe/restaurant
• Picnics welcome
• Public toilets

Accessibility

• Disabled access
• Disabled facilities

Directions & Parking

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See & Do

Symonds yat east and west.

Herefordshire HR9 6JL

Visit website

Symonds Yat is one of the most iconic and beautiful locations in the Dean Wye. There are three distinct parts:  Yat Rock , a viewpoint with incredible views over the River Wye; and the villages of Symonds Yat East and Symonds Yat West on either side of the river.

Symonds Yat West  is on the Herefordshire side of the river and  Symonds Yat East  is on the Gloucestershire side. The only connection between the two banks are two ancient hand (“pull”) ferries by which the ferryman pulls people across the river using an overhead rope, for a small fee. The only connection by road is a five mile trip upstream over Huntsham bridge.

There are many attractions and things to do in both villages including:

The Amazing Hedge Puzzle . Play hide and seek or tag in the maze, experience the Butterfly Zoo where the most beautiful and delicate creatures fly around you then play the 12 hole miniature golf course set amongst fantasy Roman ruins. Visit website .

The Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo . Visit website .

Wye Valley Warfare Laser Ops . Visit website .

Wye Valley Miniature Golf . Visit website .

Kingfisher Cruises – regular 40 minute cruises on the river from The Saracens Head. 01432 267862 or 07831 297672. Visit website .

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DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE RIVER WYE

40 MINUTES TRIPS DAILY FROM SYMONDS YAT EAST HR9 6JL (Weather premiting, ring on the day)

ABOUT US THE RIVER WYE AND KINGFISHER CRUISES

Symonds Yat is Famous for its natural river scenery. The river winds it's way through Symonds Yat george and village, dividing it into East and west.

Our Trips last about 40 minutes. A full commentary is provided, telling of the natural beauty and history of the area.

People with disabilities are very welcome and every assaistant will be given on to the boat, but we have no access for wheelchairs

The Wye Pride which seats 50 offer facilities to both the day visitor to Symonds Yat and those looking for an unusual and pleasant setting for dinner parties and buffets, or simply an evening cruise on the river.

The ideal venue for office parties, family celebrations and club outinggs.

SYMONDS YAT EAST HR9 6JL

Vessels approved by the MCA

• Open Spring 2024 Taking Bookings Now By Email
• [email protected]

+ 44 7815 001698

Symonds yat west.

Symonds Yat leisure Park Symonds Yat West Herefordshire HR9 6DA

Office Hours

Closed Monday except school & bank holidays Tuesday - Friday 11 am - 5pm Saturday 11 am - 5 pm Sunday 11 am - 5pm

Wye Valley Cruises

Cruising For Over 40 Years

Where Memories Are Made On The West Bank

Friendly And Informative

Cruise Prices

Prices: £10.00 per Adult £6.00 children (2 to 15 years, under 2 FOC) Dogs £1.50 Each limited places. See our Q&A page for more information.

Private Functions

The boat is available for private parties and functions at an hourly rate for a maximum of 48 persons. Please call to discuss your requirements. See our q & a page for more information. Tel: 07815 001698

Turn Up To Cruise Times

Now open come and see us. If you need to contact us please email. See our Q&A page for more information.

What Our Vistors Say

Privacy overview.

Walking trails at Symonds Yat Rock

From Symonds Yat Rock there are waymarked trails linking to the Forest Holidays campsite, to the River Wye and a choice of circular walks into the forest itself.

Discover the ancient hill fort, look out for birds of prey and then enjoy a snack from the log cabin café.

Useful information

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Exploring Symonds Yat and Monmouth

Symonds Yat is a scenic beauty spot spanning the River Wye.  It is located mid-way between the market towns of Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth, both approximately five miles away.

Narrow, winding roads lead to the village centre at Symonds Yat East and continuing slightly further there is a large car park where we were able to park.  The village is tiny but what it lacks in size it certainly makes up for in prettiness being located on this beautiful stretch of river.

An ancient hand pulled cable ferry rests outside the Saracen’s Head Inn and is still in regular use today taking passengers across the river to Symonds Yat West.  Ferries were introduced to link both banks of the Wye in Roman times and whilst it is now predominantly a tourist attraction it is still also used by locals who wish to avoid a five mile road trip or a lengthy walk.

Symonds Yat is a popular canoe centre for trips on the River Wye and for the less energetic Kingfisher Cruises operate 45 minute scenic boat trips from the village centre.

After enjoying a stroll around the village we returned to the car and carried on the short distance across the Welsh border into Monmouth.  Parking there was easy and free of charge on Sundays which was even better.  It was our first visit to Monmouth and I just knew it was going to be an interesting place to visit as we crossed its 18th century Monnow Bridge.  This masterpiece is the only one in the U.K. to have its gate tower still standing.  It was originally built with a portcullis, it’s primary use being to defend the town but it has also served as a jail and a toll booth.

The town lies at the confluence of the rivers Wye, Monnow and Trothy and is noted as being the birthplace of Henry V.  We strolled along the broad Monnow Street which gently slopes uphill.

The town looked bright and cheerful with lines of bunting strung across the road.  A large number of metal barriers and bollards spoilt the view somewhat.  I’m unsure if they were there to help with social distancing or due to roadworks but if you try to imagine the high street without them, it would look lovely.  There were also constant reminders that we had ventured into Wales with all road signs now appearing in both Welsh and English.

Our walk continued to Agincourt Square with its impressive Shire Hall which was formerly a court of assizes.  It’s normally open to the public but currently closed.  It didn’t matter as it was just nice to admire its exterior and to take a look at the very ornate Victorian hexagonal post box standing on the edge of the square.  It its without doubt one of the most beautiful post boxes I’ve ever come across and I wish there were more like this still around.

Facing the square stands the Kings Head, a former 17th century coaching inn so we popped inside for a delicious Sunday brunch to set us up for the rest of the day.

Feeling re-energised we set off again to explore the top of the town with its quaint narrow streets and attractive little shops and cafes.  It all seemed very quiet though with few people about but it was still pleasant to stroll around.

We passed Monmouth Priory which was founded in 1070 by Benedictine monks and is one of the most historic buildings in the town.  From there, we followed a footpath to the river for a walk on the Vauxhall Fields which is a water meadow to the north west of the town centre.  The river Monnow borders the meadow on two sides making this large open space prone to flooding.  The fields are utilised for numerous events including the Welsh International Kite Festival which must be a stunning spectacle.

The footpath brought us out conveniently near to where we had left the car completing our visit to Monmouth and Love Travelling’s first ever visit to Wales.

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36 responses to “Exploring Symonds Yat and Monmouth”

[…] Symonds Yat and Monmouth […]

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Pretty town and country views and so much history. Thanks for sharing Marion. Allan

Thanks Allan both Syminds Yat and Monmouth are pretty places to visit.

What a nice virtual tour! I love the Monnow Bridge, but the red postbox is the cherry on the cake – how beautiful is this one 📮.

I’m so pleased you are a fan of that postbox too! It’s gorgeous isn’t it and of course Monmouth and Symonds Yat are picturesque too. Hope your week is going well. Marion

The city itself looks vibrant.. what a beautiful place..

Thanks Reena, two more very pretty places on the English / Welsh border.

Okay, currently when trans-country flights are not working, we can probably keep us encouraged with your beautiful virtual tours…

Like Liked by 3 people

Thank you for letting me know that you enjoyed this post.

Such a beautiful and serene place….as I read, I was imagining myself walking those quiet lanes, soaking up nature’s beauty 😍😍

Like Liked by 2 people

The Welsh Borders really are beautiful and I’m so pleased you were able to be there with me albeit from your armchair!

The gate tower, the hand ferry and that beautiful post box… a trip full of quirky finds. Brilliant!

It certainly was Helen! I knew nothing of the Welsh borders before but found the area to be very appealing.

How quaint! I especially like the photo of Monnow Street, which looks very stroll-able for the visitor at hand. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for taking the time to comment Rebecca, it’s much appreciated. Monmouth is an attractive small town on the Welsh Borders and I’m pleased we found time to visit.

What a wealth of rivers and canals UK is blessed with. Another wonderful report on your travels. Thank you!

I’m so pleased you enjoyed this post from the Welsh borders, a part f the U.K. I hadn’t previously explored.

What a lovely view across the Brecon Beacons Marion – so special. I guess now you can’t get into Wales as my family in Laugharne say they are in lockdown. And agree that post box is so special and so English; love it.

Like Liked by 4 people

Thanks Sue for your lovely comments. I thought of you when I was writing this post as I remembered that your family were from South Wales, a part of the U.K. I’m unfamiliar with, but so nice. We visited last month when we were attending a family wedding in Tewkesbury. So pleased to see you out and about so much.

I’m pleased to read you enjoyed this post Kasun.

How lovely. Thank you Marion. That’s really nice.

I understand that Wales was ‘out of bounds’ for some time, Marion, though I don’t think this was official? It’s a lovely bit of the world so you can’t blame them for wanting to keep Covid at bay.

We were there in early September and there were no access problems then.

A welcome return to the area I grew up, via your blog. The view from Yat Rock, down over Symonds Yat and the Wye Valley is stunning.

The views were indeed stunning and it’s a beautiful part of the country to grow up and indeed live in now. Thanks for taking the time to get in touch, it’s much appreciated.

I’m enjoying your travels as always. England and Wales have so many beautiful market towns and villages. Virtual travel for me for the next little while. Thank you for broadening my horizon.

It’s my pleasure, I’m pleased to read that you are enjoying this series of posts around the Welsh Borders. Hope you are doing well.

Such a beautiful place, glad you shared it. I’ll get there when pandemic subsides

Thanks for your kind words Kelly. Let’s hope it won’t be too many more months until we can all begin exploring once again.

I couldn’t agree more

Symonds Yat looks as lovely as I imagined, long wanted to go there. Weather looked pretty good too which is a real bonus at this time of year.

We were really lucky with the weather during our stay in the area. It would be nice to go on a boat trip on the Wye sometime too. Hope you get to visit Herefordshire next year Jonno.

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• Canoe, Kayak and Paddle Board Hire

Canoe Chillin'

Canoeing the river wye with a dog2

Kayaks ready to go

Family fun!

Intro toSUP

Rafted canoes for stability

Reception pic 2023

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No shuttle is needed just paddle about from our base at symonds yat west and have a blast....

For those who are new to paddlesport or have limited time this option is ideal, the session runs at 1 pm every day  provided the river isn't too high. After booking your Canoe, Kayak or Paddleboard through the website you will receive an email with information about your adventure. On the day of your trip, you come to Wye Adventures Centre at Symonds Yat West, here you can park next door at "River Wye Caravan & Camping" in their large pay and display field, then you simply walk back to the road and we are 100m further into Symonds Yat. 

This session is ideal for complete first-timers and we allow people to take Paddleboards (not kayaks) out without any prior experience whereas, for river journeys such as our Full Day Trip or our 3/4 Day Trip,  we would require a degree of experience to take our SUP's or kayaks, one reason being that with Stand Up Paddleboards and Kayaks, you are on your own (although part of a group) and a river journey where you are committing to getting from A to B isn't the best time to try kayaking or paddleboarding without any experience, but with the 1 pm Paddle-about as its a static session, we allow non-experienced SUP'ers to have a go, but still kayakers need a level of experience.

When you arrive at the Wye Adventures Centre we will fill out paperwork and complete payments, kit you out with buoyancy aids, paddles and dry barrels and give you a safety briefing before running you to the launch point behind us and getting you on the water for some fun. To start with we suggest heading upstream as far as you can before turning back to head with the flow of the river and back to Symonds Yat, we don't allow you to go any further downstream than Ye Old Ferrie Inn that way it's not too much of a struggle to return on time and you avoid the rapids. Along the way, you can see a variety of wildlife from otters, mink, swans, geese, deer, wild boar, peregrine falcons and plenty more. This introductory trip can be enough for the first-time paddler and is perfect to enjoy the fantastic surroundings and stunning vistas the area has to offer, or if you fancied a river journey why not consider a 3/4 day trip .

Activity Information Facts:

• Minimum Age – 4 Years Old
• Fitness Level – Easy/Moderate
• Difficulty – Easy, suitable for novices, you will be required to carry your 34kg canoe between you and your paddling partner (we can assist groups with young children), we can sometimes help at the launch stage but if you capsize on route you will have to recover your boat yourselves as we are not there with you! you will also need to remove the canoe from the river at the end of each day. 
• Stops on route  - none on this trip, this is paddle about, if you are looking to stop for a break then consider the 3/4 day trip .  (Please bear in mind that we don't allow anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs to paddle our boats for obvious safety reasons, people under the influence or seen drinking alcohol whilst in the boats will be removed from the river without refund and possibly without transport back to their cars).
• Meeting times – 1 pm
• Meeting place - Wye Adventures Centre, Symonds Yat West
• On river time – 20 mins after the meeting time
• Duration – 3 hours (or less as you can return to your car at any point)
• Off-water time - 4 pm at the latest
• Time of Year – March-October
• Location - Lower Wye Valley
• Adult: Child Ratio -  4-10 yr olds 1:1 adult to child ratio, 10-18 yr olds 1 adult:2 youths

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01600 890027 or drop us an email to [email protected]

Read what our customers have to say about us  here .

Related Adventures

Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat (1/2 Day)

Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat (3/4 Day)

Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat (1 Day)

Call 01600 890027 or [email protected] to book your Outdoor Adventure with Wye Canoes

Check out members of our group

Timmerman Yachts is a Russian builder of quality luxury motor yachts. Based in Moscow, it is owned by a group of Dutch and Russian investors and operates out of Moscow Shipyard. Several noted naval architecture and yacht design firms are involved with Timmerman, including Vripack, Guido de Groot Design, Ginton Naval Architects, Jon Bannenberg Ltd., and Francis Design Ltd.

Founded in 2003, the company was named for 17th century Dutch boat builder Franz Timmerman who brought Dutch boat manufacturing techniques to Russia and co-founded the Russian navy. Timmerman Yachts has more than 1,000 employees working at the Moscow Shipyard.

Timmerman has delivered a number of semi-custom luxury yachts between 26-47 metres in length, including TM26 and Timmerman FD-51, designed by Francis Design Ltd. Other notable Timmerman yachts include Victoria M, Alexandra (now Latitude) and Olsten 125′.

One of the 10 largest yacht builders in the world, Timmerman is focused on building high-quality luxury yachts at more competitive prices. Its Russian-Dutch partnership provides great yacht-building capabilities. Timmerman builds yacht to the highest standards and holds DNV, MCA and Russian River Register certification. The company reportedly has more than a dozen yachts in some phase of construction.

Founded in 2003

Yachts built by Timmerman