Symonds Yat Rock Walk – Complete Guide & Map

Embark on the Symonds Yat Rock Walk, a captivating journey through the heart of the Wye Valley where the River Wye meanders through the soft embrace of ancient woodlands and rugged hilltops. From the dizzying heights of the rock itself, a beacon for both birds of prey and awe-struck tourists, to the serene paths that weave through the forested flanks of the valley, every twist and turn brings a new perspective. So grab your walking stick and your sense of adventure, and join me as we step into the heart of the Wye Valley.

Let’s cross the borders with this walk between England and Wales. Doable on a day trip from London, here is a fun way to escape from the city and be amazed by the beauty of nature, from riverside and woodlands to hilltops. What a great way to spend a day out!

Disclaimer: If you do not drive, don’t panic. London-based hiking clubs may offer similar walk opportunities in the Wye Valley. Check them out for more information.

Logistics of the Symonds Yat Rock Walk

Highlights of the Symonds Yat Rock Walk

Symonds Yat Rock Walking Guide

So now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s delve into the walk!

Viewpoint

We start our walk at Symonds Yat Rock, a viewpoint offering an impressive panorama over the Wye Valley. Originally the site of an Iron Age hillfort, Symonds Yat Rock’s popularity soared over the centuries, becoming a renowned destination during the eighteenth century. Eager tourists would journey to Symonds Yat Rock by boat, disembarking at the base of the steep hill before ascending to the top, where the splendour of the valley unfolds below.

Today, the hilltop is managed by Forestry England. The surrounding woodlands host a variety of rare trees, such as large-leaved limes and whitebeams, which provide a habitat for numerous bird of prey species, including falcons, goshawks, and buzzards.

The site offers a rich array of trails:

• 6 walking trails
• 2 cycling trails
• 3 levels of orientation trails

The circular walk we are embarking on today combines the Mailscot Wood Trail and the Highmeadow Trail walking paths. Roam around the viewpoint, taking in the views of the sinuous River Wye, before descending the hill via a steep stairway.

Related Content: Best Hill Walks Near London

As you weave your way down, glimpses through the branches reveal the red-painted façade of a cosy 5-bedroom house. Does this cottage ring a bell? If you’re nodding in recognition, it’s likely because you’ve seen it in the Netflix production “Sex Education“. This charming holiday home, known as The Chalet, is featured in the show as the residence of one of the characters and is available for rent on Airbnb.

Lord’s Wood

Reaching the bottom of the hill, take a right and start walking towards the hand-pulled ferry pier. Please note that crossing the river by ferry is subject to weather and water levels, so it’s always wise to check with the Saracens Head Inn before planning your trip.

Once across the river, head to Ferrie Lane, where you’ll find a footpath further up the road on your left. This path leads you into Lord’s Wood, an area that, once an industrial site, has been reclaimed by nature, transforming into the verdant forest we see today.

After trekking 1.8 km among ash, beech, and oak trees, interspersed with rocks and cliffs, you’ll find yourself at King Arthur’s Cave. Excavations of this limestone cave have unearthed evidence of human activity dating back to the Palaeolithic era, and animal bones dating back 126,000 years. The origin of the cave’s name and its connection to King Arthur remain shrouded in mystery, with some suggesting a possible linguistic mix-up.

The cave features a dual entrance – one main and a double interconnected one – and has two chambers, named Bear’s Den and Lion’s Cave, reflecting the discoveries made within. Explore the different chambers before returning to the main trail, heading towards the river.

The River Wye

Our journey through Lord’s Wood continues, but now along a path running beside the River Wye.

Our journey through Lord’s Wood continues, but now along a path running beside the River Wye. This is the fourth-longest river in the UK, rising in the Welsh mountains of Plynlimon and flowing to its confluence with the Severn estuary near Chepstow. For much of its course, the river forms the natural border between Wales and England.

Peering through the branches, the river’s brown hue is noticeable – a consequence of intensive poultry and dairy farming along its tributaries. Despite its reputation as one of the most polluted rivers in the UK, the upcoming views, especially from the suspension bridge, are breathtaking.

Soon, you’ll reach the Biblins Suspension Bridge. Originally a site for log transportation across the river, it now boasts the only crossing point on the River Wye for 7 miles (11.2 km). The first iteration of the bridge was erected in 1924, and replaced by the current suspension bridge in 1957. It has undergone numerous repairs and upgrades, notably after the devastation caused by Storm Dennis in February 2020.

For safety, only six people are permitted on the bridge simultaneously. Depending on when you visit, you might need to wait patiently for your turn to cross this Indiana Jones-style bridge.

Walking back to Symonds Yat Rock

Once you’ve crossed to the other side, take a right and follow the footpath running parallel to the river, which will lead you directly back to Symonds Yat Rock.

After a 1.4-mile (2.2 km) level walk along the River Wye, you’ll arrive at the New Weir car park in Symonds Yat East. The Royal Lodge, to the right of the car park, offers a perfect spot for a break. Alternatively, the Saracens Head Inn, where our journey across the river began, is just a short walk down the riverbank.

Refreshed and re-energized, it’s time to tackle the steep staircase to the top of Symonds Yat Rock, where our journey started. Ascend one step at a time, and upon reaching the top, make your way back to the car park where we began our adventure.

Happy discovery and have a safe trip back home!

Map of the Symonds Yat Rock Walk

Do you want to do this walk? Download the free GPS map below. You can upload it onto your navigation app to follow the route. Not sure how to do this? Follow my step-by-step guide to learn how to upload the file onto your navigation app.

Final thoughts on the Symonds Yat Rock Walk

In conclusion, the Symonds Yat Rock Walk offers a remarkable blend of walking paths, stunning scenery, and opportunities to engage with wildlife and history. As we reach the end of our exploration, it’s clear that the trail delivers on its reputation as one of the must-visit walking destinations in the Wye Valley.

And you, what is your favourite walk in Wales? Let me know in the comments below.

Like this walk? Pin it!