Walking in Herefordshire offers an enchanting experience steeped in rolling countryside, orchards, ancient woodlands, and historic landmarks. Nestled against the border of Wales, this tranquil county provides a myriad of trails that showcase its lush landscapes and rich heritage. Whether you’re looking for a serene stroll through pastoral settings or a vigorous hike up rugged hillsides, Herefordshire has something to offer every walker.
Popular Walks in Herefordshire
1. Wye Valley Walk
- Length: 136 miles in total, with several manageable sections in Herefordshire
- Highlights: The Wye Valley Walk follows the River Wye and offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in the county. It includes parts of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), providing scenic views of the river, woodland, and countryside. A popular section is from Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat, which features the famous Symonds Yat Rock viewpoint.
2. Mortimer Trail
- Length: 30 miles
- Highlights: Starting from Ludlow in Shropshire and finishing in Kington, Herefordshire, this trail takes you through varied landscapes including forests, farmlands, and over hills. The route is named after the Mortimers, a powerful Norman family, and passes through historic sites like the ruins of Wigmore Castle.
3. Cleeve Hill and Common
- Length: Various routes, approximately 3-5 miles for a good circular walk
- Highlights: Offering expansive views over the Malvern Hills and surrounding countryside, Cleeve Hill is the highest point in Herefordshire. This area is great for bird watching and enjoying wildflowers, especially in spring and summer.
4. Herefordshire Trail
- Length: 154 miles (circular route)
- Highlights: Encircling the county, this long-distance trail connects Herefordshire’s market towns and passes through some of its most beautiful landscapes. It’s designed to show off the best of the rural county, from its historic churches and castles to its rivers and orchards.
5. Black and White Villages Trail
- Length: About 40 miles (driving route, with walking options in each village)
- Highlights: This unique trail takes you through some of Herefordshire’s picturesque black and white villages such as Weobley, Pembridge, and Eardisland. Each village offers short local walks that allow you to explore traditional English countryside and architecture.
6. Malvern Hills
- Length: Various paths, with routes suitable for all levels
- Highlights: Although primarily located in Worcestershire, the Malvern Hills extend into Herefordshire and offer dramatic, panoramic views of both counties. Popular walking routes include the ascent to British Camp, an ancient hill fort.
Tips for Walking in Herefordshire
- Prepare for the Weather: Weather can change rapidly, especially in the hills. Waterproof clothing and good walking boots are essential.
- Navigation: While many trails are well-marked, a map or GPS device is helpful, particularly on longer or more remote routes.
- Local Amenities: Plan your walk to pass through or finish near villages where you can find refreshments and perhaps local cider, a Herefordshire specialty.
- Respect the Environment: Stick to the paths to protect the natural habitats and farmland. Close gates behind you, and keep dogs under control.
- Safety: Let someone know your route and expected return time, especially when tackling more challenging or isolated paths.
Walking in Herefordshire not only provides a great way to get active but also offers a peaceful retreat into some of the most beautiful landscapes in England. It’s an ideal way to explore the county’s rich history, vibrant wildlife, and rural traditions.
Recommended Towns & Villages for the best walks
- Hereford
- Bromyard
- Ross on Wye
- Ledbury
Waymarked Trails
| Walking Trail | Distance |
|---|---|
| Geopark Way | 175 km / 109 miles |
| Herefordshire Trail | 248 km / 154 miles |
| Mortimer Trail | 48 km / 30 miles |
| Ross Round | 29 km / 18 miles |
| Sabrina Way | 327 km / 203 miles |
| Three Choirs Way | 161 km / 100 miles |
| Vaughan’s Way | 27 km / 17 miles |
| Wye Valley Walk | 222 km / 138 miles |
Circular Trails in Herefordshire
- BASFORD HALL
Distance: 1.2 Miles Time: 29 minutes Elevation: 236 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Crewe End Point: Crewe null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail
Latest walking trails in Herefordshire
- Yeadon to Skipton via Ilkley
Distance: 23.9 Miles Time: 11 hours 03 minutes Elevation: 440 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Yeadon End Point: Yeadon null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map 288 – Bradford and Huddersfield Map of Trail - Yeadon Tarn 1.5 Mile Circular
Distance: 1.5 Miles Time: 36 minutes Elevation: 157 Feet Terrain: Road Start Point: Yeadon End Point: Yeadon null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map 288 – Bradford and Huddersfield Map of Trail - Woodlesford, Hungate, Oulton 6 Mile Circuit
Distance: 6.3 Miles Time: 2 hours 44 minutes Elevation: 95 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Woodlesford End Point: Woodlesford null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Rothwell And Beyond Pub Walk
Distance: 9.8 Miles Time: 4 hours 17 minutes Elevation: 817 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Woodlesford End Point: Woodlesford null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Woodlesford To St. Aiden’s Circuit
Distance: 5.7 Miles Time: 2 hours 31 minutes Elevation: 128 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Whitkirk End Point: Whitkirk null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Wetherby Bridge via Waterside Lane
Distance: 2.3 Miles Time: 1 hour 00 minutes Elevation: 853 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Wetherby End Point: Wetherby null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Bramham Park Circular Walk
Distance: 5.0 Miles Time: 2 hours 14 minutes Elevation: 564 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Wetherby End Point: Wetherby null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Endure24
Distance: 5.0 Miles Time: 2 hours 14 minutes Elevation: 781 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Wetherby End Point: Wetherby null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Marslands Waterworks
Distance: 4.5 Miles Time: 1 hour 53 minutes Elevation: 541 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wetherby End Point: Wetherby A moderately hilly circular walking route, approximately 4.5 miles long. OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Todmorden Centenary Way Part 2
Distance: 12.8 Miles Time: 6 hours 22 minutes Elevation: 702 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Walsden End Point: Walsden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Walsden To Smithy Bridge
Distance: 7.7 Miles Time: 3 hours 51 minutes Elevation: 157 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Walsden End Point: Walsden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Walsden To Home
Distance: 10.0 Miles Time: 4 hours 59 minutes Elevation: 1991 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Walsden End Point: Walsden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Ossett
Distance: 9.7 Miles Time: 4 hours 21 minutes Elevation: 1709 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Newmiller Dam
Distance: 1.8 Miles Time: 43 minutes Elevation: 1631 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Pugneys
Distance: 3.8 Miles Time: 1 hour 35 minutes Elevation: 151 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Horbury Lagoon
Distance: 10.5 Miles Time: 4 hours 29 minutes Elevation: 423 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Wakefield 9 Mile Walk
Distance: 9.0 Miles Time: 4 hours 08 minutes Elevation: 1526 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Walton Nature Park
Distance: 4.1 Miles Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Elevation: 1975 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Overton ~ Clayton West
Distance: 12.2 Miles Time: 5 hours 45 minutes Elevation: 177 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - 17-Apr
Distance: 10.0 Miles Time: 4 hours 13 minutes Elevation: 443 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Stanley Ferry 7.5 Miles
Distance: 7.5 Miles Time: 3 hours 18 minutes Elevation: 1768 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Lantern Trail 2016
Distance: 1.1 Miles Time: 30 minutes Elevation: 551 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Swan & Cygnet
Distance: 1.9 Miles Time: 45 minutes Elevation: 548 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Kettlethorpe To NMD
Distance: 4.9 Miles Time: 2 hours 04 minutes Elevation: 203 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Gawthorpe Circular
Distance: 10.7 Miles Time: 4 hours 58 minutes Elevation: 1289 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield This is a circular walk around Gawthorpe. Leaving the car park on Pildacre Lane, Ossett, it joins the Kirklees Way to Dewsbury, onwards to Hanging Heaton Golf Club, Hanging Heaton, Lee house Farm, returning via Flushdyke… Read More »Gawthorpe Circular - Ossett To Horbury Bridge
Distance: 3.5 Miles Time: 1 hour 34 minutes Elevation: 1027 Feet Terrain: Road Start Point: Wakefield End Point: Wakefield null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Duke Of Edingbrough
Distance: 8.2 Miles Time: 4 hours 09 minutes Elevation: 230 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Wainstalls End Point: Wainstalls A hilly A to B walking route, approximately 8.2 miles long. OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Upper Denby via Scout Dyke Reservoir
Distance: 4.5 Miles Time: 2 hours 01 minutes Elevation: 341 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Upper Denby End Point: Upper Denby null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Upper Denby – Inbirchworth
Distance: 4.5 Miles Time: 2 hours 02 minutes Elevation: 928 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Upper Denby End Point: Upper Denby null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Totties ~ Snowgate Head Circular
Distance: 5.1 Miles Time: 2 hours 37 minutes Elevation: 610 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Totties End Point: Totties null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Pennine Way: Day 4 Mankinholes – Ponden Reservoir
Distance: 14.2 Miles Time: 7 hours 26 minutes Elevation: 3284 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Wy156 Stoodley Pike & Langfield Common
Distance: 9.1 Miles Time: 4 hours 25 minutes Elevation: 1644 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Mike
Distance: 15.2 Miles Time: 7 hours 00 minutes Elevation: 968 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Gill & Kara€™s Adventure
Distance: 17.8 Miles Time: 9 hours 00 minutes Elevation: 203 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Day 3
Distance: 19.2 Miles Time: 10 hours 07 minutes Elevation: 49 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Mankinholes Day 3
Distance: 14.3 Miles Time: 6 hours 37 minutes Elevation: 453 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Hoof Stones Walk
Distance: 6.9 Miles Time: 3 hours 23 minutes Elevation: 325 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Todmorden To Cowling
Distance: 17.1 Miles Time: 8 hours 49 minutes Elevation: 463 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden A hilly A to B walking route, approximately 17.1 miles long. OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Cragg Vale 8th April 2015
Distance: 10.1 Miles Time: 5 hours 00 minutes Elevation: 3366 Feet Terrain: Off-Road Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden null OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail - Todmorden Reservoir Circular
Distance: 5.4 Miles Time: 2 hours 39 minutes Elevation: 253 Feet Terrain: Mixed Start Point: Todmorden End Point: Todmorden A hilly circular walking route, approximately 5.4 miles long. OS Maps Required OS Explorer Map (102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 109 and 111) Cornwall Set Map of Trail
Ordnance Survey Maps
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