A local's guide to Ross-on-Wye
Just ten minutes from Field Cottage, Ross-on-Wye is the perfect nearby town — big enough for a proper day out, small enough to feel friendly and unhurried. Often called the "birthplace of British tourism", it's been welcoming visitors since the 18th century. Here's how the locals make the most of it.
Start at the Market House
The handsome 17th-century Market House sits at the heart of the old town, and a market still spills out around it on Thursdays and Saturdays. Browse local produce, crafts and bric-a-brac before wandering the steep, characterful streets that radiate out from the square.
Independent shops
Ross is a haven for independent retailers — delis, bookshops, galleries, antiques and gift shops line the streets. It's the kind of town where you can easily lose an afternoon, and you'll find plenty of local Herefordshire produce to take back to the cottage.
The riverside & the Prospect
Don't miss the views. Climb up to the Prospect, a clifftop garden beside St Mary's Church, for a sweeping panorama over the horseshoe bend in the river. Then head down to the riverside for a gentle walk along the banks of the Wye.
Where to refuel
- Coffee & cake: several independent cafes serve excellent coffee and homemade bakes.
- Lunch: traditional pubs and bistros offer local, seasonal menus.
- Treats for the cottage: pick up cheese, cider and bread from the delis and farm shops.
For the best photo of Ross, walk a little way along the river and look back at the town rising above the water — it's the view that launched a thousand postcards.
Events worth catching
The town has a lively calendar, from the Ross-on-Wye International Festival to regular farmers' markets and seasonal celebrations. It's always worth checking what's on during your stay.