Pictures of Symonds Yat

About Symonds Yat

From whichever vantage point you choose all around Symonds Yat are scenes of incredible beauty. Yat rock stands nearly 500ft above sea level at the neck of a vast loop in the silky River Wye as it shimmers and snakes it's way through some of the finest scenery in the Wye Valley. Symonds Yat is cut in two by the Wye. It straggles out along a fascinating limestone, thickly wooded gorge. Here, there are spectacular walks, most of which are clearly marked from the visitors centre in the heart of the village.

Of interest is the hand pulled rope ferry which continues to take visitors across the river. The magnificent Seven Sisters Rocks, King Arthur's cave and the Queen Stone, oddly shaped and most likely an ancient monument, are all an absolute joy. So too, is the ancient riverside church which dates 14th-century and has a magnificent trussed rafter roof. Jubilee park maze and gardens are rather special and teas are served here.

Visitors crowd Symonds Yat in every season of the year and if they are very lucky they may catch a fleeting glance of the protected Peregine Falcons as they fly from nest to nest.

The river here is often awash with canoe enthusiasts and the waters are enlivened by the riviting splash of colourful craft. There are pleasure boats offering river trips, from these crafts you get an unrivalled view of the finest natural river scenery in the land.

There are a couple of pleasant pubs here serving good food and drink, and closeby there is a caravan park for the traveller who wishes to park up for a longer stay. There is much to see and to enjoy in this wonderful area where every season brings special delights, but a favourite has got to be when a bright autumn sun dazzles over a sparking river flanked by trees with foliage of deep red, purple and gold. It is truly magical, a vivid picture of granduer to cherish forever.

Not far from Symonds Yat is the pleasant market town of Ross-on-Wye and the ancient remains of Goodrich Castle are just a short drive away.