Environment Agency Canoeists' guide to the River Wye

Wye canoe?Canoeists' guide to the River Wye

We are the Environment Agency. It’s our job to look afteryour environment and make it a better place – for you,and for future generations.

Your environment is the air you breathe, the water youdrink and the ground you walk on. Working with business,Government and society as a whole, we are making yourenvironment cleaner and healthier.

The Environment Agency. Out there, making yourenvironment a better place to live and play.

This guide is also available in Welsh.Mae’r cyfeirlyfr hwn ar gael yn Gymraeg hefyd.

Published by:Environment AgencySapphire East550 Streetsbrook RoadSolihullB91 1QT

Tel: 03708 506506.Email: [email protected]

Cover photograph - canoeing at Ross-on-Wye

© Environment Agency

All rights reserved. This document may be reproduced with prior permission of the Environment AgencyISBN: 978-1-84432-914-4

Edition: 13th edition 2011

Environment Agency Canoeists' guide to the River Wye 3

Contents

Introduction 04

The River Wye 05

Conservation of wildlife 06

Navigation and recreational advice 09

Navigation rights and access 09

The Rivers Wye and Lugg navigation 10

Canoeing on the River Wye 11

Upper Wye Canoe Access Agreement 11

River gradings 13

River gradings for the River Wye 15

BCU and WCA contacts 17

Canoe hire and instruction 17

Good practice guides 18

Code of conduct 19

General guidance for all river users 19

Specific guidance for those out on thewater in a boat 19

Guidance for specific activities 20

Fishing seasons 20

Safety on the river 22

Daily river level information 22

Safety guidelines 22

Tides 23

Health and hygiene 24

Health and hygiene guidelines 24

Leptospirosis (Weil's Disease) 24

Itinerary 25

Launching and landing 25

Overview of map sections 26

Maps 28

Accommodation 56

Tourist information centres 60

Useful websites 60

Transport 61

Maps 61

Acknowledgements 61

Wye Management Advisory Group(WyeMAG) 61

4 Environment Agency Canoeists' guide to the River Wye

We are the navigation authority responsible for the RiversWye and Lugg. It’s our job to look after the environment andthe navigation for these rivers.

The Wye Navigation Advisory Committee (WNAC) assists us indeveloping sustainable recreation and navigation on theriver. The group was set up in 2003 and operates under anindependent chairperson. Members represent a wide range ofuser interests, including pleasure craft operators, canoeists,rowers, landowners, local authorities and those with anglingwildlife and conservation interests.

Introduction

The River Wye at Symonds Yat


The Wye Valley is an important areafor tourism, attracting manythousands of visitors each year.The river is a unique resource forsport and recreation. It is importantfor many activities as well ascanoeing, including game fishing(mainly for salmon), coarse fishing,rafting, rowing, walking, bird watchingand picnicking.

The River Wye is about 250km longand one of the longest rivers inBritain. It is mostly unaltered with nolarge man-made structures such asweirs on the main stem of the river oron most of the tributaries. The Wyerises in the Cambrian Mountains onPlynlimon before meeting the SevernEstuary at the fortress town ofChepstow. Close to its source, theriver is characterised by still, shallow,

gravelly stretches mixed with rockycascades. The river is narrow and fastflowing through the high hills andrugged terrain towards Hay-on-Wye.From Hay to Whitney, the Wye flowsbetween the BlackMountains and theRadnorshire Hills. Here the river isgenerally shallow, with minor rapidsand several long pools. FromWhitneyto Hereford, the character of the riverchanges as it meanders through abroad floodplain. Below Bredwardine,the channel narrows before entering awide valley with high banks upstreamof Ross-on-Wye. From here, the riverenters perhaps the most dramaticsection, with spectacular views anddeep wooded gorges down toChepstow where it enters the SevernEstuary.

The River Wye

Walking at Ross-on-Wye


Conservation of wildlife

The River Wye is a Site of SpecialScientific Interest (SSSI) and SpecialArea of Conservation (SAC) under theEuropean Habitats Directive. Also thelower river from Mordiford toChepstow is an Area of OutstandingNatural Beauty (AONB) and isregarded as one of the finest lowlandlandscapes in Britain. Some of theplants and animals found along theriver are of international importance.Below are just some of the speciesthat you might see along your journey.

OtterOtters now range all over the RiverWye catchment and its maintributaries, including the River Lugg.They can grow to the size of amedium-sized dog, and are largelynocturnal mammals. A lot of patience

and luck is required to spot one.However, you can see signs of ottersas you canoe down the Wye and theLugg: footprints at the edge of muddybanks and droppings (‘spraints’) onrocks are the obvious signs to lookout for. It is an offence under theWildlife and Countryside Act 1981 tokill, injure or take an otter from thewild without a licence; to damage orobstruct an otter’s den (holt) ordisturb an otter in its resting place.You should take care not to disturbany dense vegetation, tree roots orrocky cavities that might harbour anotter, especially during the daytimeand when looking for a suitable entryor exit point to the river.

Otter


White clawed crayfishThese are the UK’s only nativefreshwater crayfish and the River Wyesystem is the best site known inWales for them. Crayfish are naturallyfound amongst stones in the river bedand bank, and amongst tree roots andin other cavities such as stone walls.They favour clean water habitats andare therefore sensitive to pollution.

There are some serious threats to thesurvival of this native species by theintroduction of the North Americansignal crayfish. This non-nativecrayfish competes for food andhabitat, and carries the crayfishplague. This fungal plague is alsocarried in water and on equipmentsuch as wetsuits, canoes and fishingequipment that have been in contactwith infected water or crayfish. It’simportant that you make sure all

equipment is dried thoroughly beforeyou use it again in another river to killthe infection.

It is an offence under the Wildlife andCountryside Act to take or sell nativefreshwater crayfish from the wild.

Water-crowfootThere are several different species ofthis aquatic plant found along theupper and lower reaches of the river.In the summer, the plant can formextensive mats, and produces flowersthat add to the beauty and characterof the river.

Water-crowfoot forms part of a habitatthat helps give the River Wye its SACStatus. It is illegal to remove it withoutconsent from Natural England or theCountryside Council for Wales. If youare experiencing problems navigatingthe river as a result of extensive

Water-crowfoot


growth of this plant, please contactone of the Environment Agency’sBiodiversity Officers on029 2024 5256 for advice; they willbe happy to help.

SalmonTheWye Atlantic salmon population isof considerable importance in UKterms and, historically, the river is themost productive in Wales for this fish.Modification of the river has been keptto a minimum, thereby protectingimportant spawning habitat.

Salmon require a good flow of cleanwater over an exposed gravel bed forspawning. Migration up the rivergenerally occurs between October andJanuary, with spawning usuallyoccurring in late winter. Eggs areburied in the gravel in nests known as“redds”, with fry emerging in May.

During these months, you should takecare not to disturb or damage areas ofgravel bed that may appear to havebeen recently disturbed, as these arelikely to be redds.

Other species that are found in theRiver Wye, and which also give theriver its SAC status, include: sealamprey, brook lamprey, river lamprey,twaite shad and bullhead.

If you require any further informationon any of the above species, you cancontact your local Biodiversity Officeron 029 2024 5256 or Fisheries Officeron 029 2024 5289. Natural Englandand the Countryside Council for Walescan also provide information on theSSSI and SAC designation anddesignated features.

Salmon


Navigation rights and accessThe River Wye has been used fornavigation for many centuries. In thepast the Wye was an importantcommercial waterway but, theinfrastructure that supports this, suchas locks and weirs, has long sincebeen removed. Today, boating on theriver is mostly canoeing and rowing,but with some passenger sightseeingboats operating around Symonds Yat.

A public right of navigation extendsfrom Bigsweir Bridge upstream to HayTown Bridge on the main River Wye,and on the River Lugg between itsconfluence with the Wye andPresteigne Town Bridge. The combinedlength of the non-tidal navigation onthe Rivers Wye and Lugg (the part for

which we are the navigation authority)is approximately 185 kilometres. TheGloucester Harbour Trustees are thenavigation authority for the tidalsection of the River Wye downstreamof Bigsweir Bridge.

The public right of navigation belowHay does not give a right of access tothe riverbank and other than ataccepted public sites, you must getpermission from the landowner beforelaunching and landing canoes.Permission is also needed to camp orpicnic on the banks or neighbouringfields.

Navigation andrecreational advice

Canoes at Symonds Yat

The Rivers Wye and Lugg navigation

Legend

RiversWye and Lugg - non-navigation

Public right of navigation - Environment Agency jurisdiction

Tidal river navigation - Gloucester Harbour Trustees jurisdiction

© Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Environment Agency 100026380, (2007)


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0 5 10 20 Miles

20 Kilometres0 5 10


Canoeing on the River WyeOn the main river above Hay-on-Wye,the boating activity is almostexclusively canoeing. You can canoecontinuously for 133km (the length ofthe public right to navigate from HayTown Bridge to Bigsweir) which makesthe Wye a great river for long distancetouring. For this reason it is popularwith Duke of Edinburgh expeditionsas well as many canoe enthusiasts.

White water canoeing is enjoyed onparts of the upper river catchment. Therapids at Symonds Yat are a nationallyimportant canoeing site owned by theBritish Canoe Union (BCU). There are anumber of commercial canoe hirefirms and adventure holidaycompanies based on the Wye, offeringcanoe and kayak trips.

Upper Wye Canoe AccessAgreementUpstream of Hay Bridge, the river canprovide some good canoeing waterbut there is no established publicright of navigation. An agreementexists that facilitates shared accessbetween the anglers and paddlers.

Canoeing these upper reaches isconsidered at its best during the highflows of autumn and winter, whilefishing takes place during driermonths, giving the opportunity for anamicable sharing of the river. Theagreed dates for canoe access are 18October to 15 March inclusive for theupper Wye. However, under theagreement, canoeing is possibleoutside these dates when river levelsare above the red markers on twogauges, which you can check on theWye and Usk Foundation website -www.wyeuskfoundation.org/conditions/index.php. This allows forpaddling every day when waterconditions are best for adventurouscanoeing. The agreement securedaccess and egress points andprovided signage and maps.

Representatives from local OutdoorCentres, riparian owners, CountrysideCouncil for Wales, EnvironmentAgency Wales, and the BritishOutdoor Professionals Association,


led by the Wye and Usk Foundation,were responsible for delivering thearrangements.

The upper Wye is not recommendedfor beginners or canoeists that do nothave considerable experience ofwhite water.

To avoid problems, it is essential thateveryone who uses the river actsresponsibly and follows advice in theWye code of conduct.

Remember - there are manyusers of the Wye. Pleaserespect their wishes andneeds!

Kayaking at Symonds Yat

The following classificationsare used by theWelshCanoeing Association (WCA)on the canoewales.comwebsite to describe the levelof difficulty. The grading ofrivers is very difficult, withdiffering opinions amongstpaddlers, and as a result anyclassification is verysubjective and dependanton conditions.

Grade I – Easy: moving water with theodd disturbances in the shape ofsmall, regular waves and slightmeanders.

Grade II – Moderate: the water isfaster and rapids are more frequent;rocks, waves and small stoppers arefound but always with an obviouschannel.

Grade III – Harder: the pace quickenswith fairly big waves and stopperswhich are quite capable of holding aboat firmly. Rapids are much morecontinuous and, although the route isfairly obvious, it is necessary to beable to manoeuvre the kayak well.

Grade IV – Difficult: long stretches ofheavy rapids and falls with irregularwaves and often powerful holdingstoppers. The route is not obviousfrom the water, and bank inspectionis usually necessary. A mistake orswim could be serious.

Grade V – Extremely difficult: longerrapids, large drops with very bigwaves, dangerous stoppers and rocksto negotiate. This is a challenge to anycanoeist. Although never absent inthe lower grades, in grade V,substantial danger is always apossibility. Continual inspectionand/or protection are oftennecessary.

Grade VI – Limit of navigation: a linedown exists – just. Luckmay oftenplay a part. There is always a real riskto life. Very favourable waterconditions and protection may makerapids of this grade feasible. Veryskilful paddling and the ability to pickthe ideal days are also involved. Mostof the time, they are too dangerous tocanoe.

River gradings




A description of the river gradings forthe various stretches of rivers asdescribed in the canoewales.comwebsite is summarised below.

Gradings for the River Wye

Stretch Length Grade Notable Features

Pont Rhydygaled to Llangurig 8 km II

Llangurig to Rhayader 17 km III(IV)

Rhayader Falls III or IV (IV in Rapids/fallshigh water)

Rhayader to BuilthWells 26 km II - III Rapids

BuilthWells to Llyswen 20 km II – III (IV) Rapids, no portages

Llyswen to Hay-on-Wye 16 km I

Hay-on-Wye to Brewardine 25 km I

Brewardine to Hereford 27 km I - II

Hereford to Ross-on-Wye 49 km I

Ross-on-Wye toMonmouth 39 km I - II Symonds Yat Rapids

Monmouth to Chepstow 33 km I - II


Gradings for the River Wye

0 12.5 25 50 Kilometres

Legend

Grade I

Grade I–II

Grade II

Grade II–III

Grade II–III (IV)

Grade III

Ungraded

© Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Environment Agency 100026380, (2007)

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BCU andWCA contactsWCA Regional Officer:Pam Bell, Rose Cottage,Llanelli Hill, Upper Cwm Nantgam,Abergavenny, NP7 0RFTel: 01873 831 825

BCU Local River Advisor:(Hay-on-Wye to Symonds Yat):Stephen Phillips, 1 Knights Way,Newent, Gloucester GL18 1QJTel: 01531 822 [email protected]

BCU Local Access Officer:(downstream of Monmouth)Graham Symonds, 7 White Hill Close,Monmouth, NP5 4FGTel: 01600 713 461

Canoe hire and instructionSeveral companies in the Wye Valleyoffer canoes for hire and instruction,and will guide groups of canoeists.For details contact local TouristInformation Centres.

Kayaking at Monmouth


Good practice guidelinesOur aim is to see the river usedrespectfully by all parties and in away that is sensitive to themanyenvironmental designations. In orderto achieve harmonywe have produceda code of conduct. Below is somegeneral information included inthe code.

Salmon and trout lay their eggs ingravel between October and April.Trampling and launching canoes ongravels used by salmonmay damagetheir eggs and young fry. This is ofparticular concern upstream ofGlasbury, and when the water levelis low.

Game stocks are now a scarce resourceso please do not canoe if the risk ofdisturbance is high.While coarse fishstocks are not in danger it is worthremembering that they spawn betweenApril and July, and so unnecessarydisturbance of gravels should beavoided at these times.

In May and June, two rare and protectedspecies ofmigratory fish, Allis andTwaite shad, are present and breedingin fast flowing gravelly areas of the river.It is an offence to damage or destroythese spawning areas, so canoeistsmust avoid trampling or draggingcanoes across these parts of the riverduring thesemonths.

TheWye is also an important habitat fora variety of birds andmammals. Keepclear of gravel shoals and islandsbetween 1 April and 31 July

(particularly at dawn and dusk) tominimise disturbance of breeding birdsand otters. Avoid trampling andlaunching/landing on or near sensitiveotter sites, especially in the Clifford andWhitney sectors of the river.

Some of our native species andhabitats are facing a challenging future– but recreational water users includingcanoeists and anglers, can help protectthem. There is a risk of unknowinglyspreading undesirable species anddisease with serious consequences.Spores and parasites can survive indamp or wet conditions for 5 to 6 dayson clothing and equipment such ascanoes and fishing tackle. You can helpprevent harm to our wildlife by ensuringall equipment used in other freshwaterbodies is thoroughly dry or disinfectedwith a saline solution before reusing onthe RiverWye.

All river users are encouraged tonavigate in a waywhich avoidsendangering or injuring other people,their boats and the bed and banks ofthe river. The river is there for all toenjoy so please show consideration forpeople, wildlife and property.

You should be aware thatignoring this advice couldresult in a criminal offencebeing committed, and youmay be subject toenforcement action.


Code of conductThe code of conduct is intended tohelp people enjoy the river withoutreducing the enjoyment of others ordamaging the environment. Canoeistsare asked to follow the relevantsections of the code below, which aresupported by all the main user groups.

General guidance for allriver users• look after the river environment

and avoid damaging banks andbankside vegetation, waterweedand gravel beds;

• avoid dragging equipment overrock slabs and boulders;

• do not disturb birds and otherwildlife you find along the river.Avoid areas used by winteringwildlife, nesting birds andspawning fish in the appropriateseason. Stop your activity if youare clearly disturbing wildlife;

• protect native species andhabitats – use dry or disinfectedequipment if used in otherfreshwater bodies;

• do not trespass on private banksor moorings;

• never throw rubbish into the riveror leave it on the banks;

• park sensibly without causingobstruction;

• get changed out of public view;

• have special regard for beginners,as you would for learner drivers onthe road;

• hail to draw a person’s attention toa situation which might otherwiseresult in inconvenience, damage orcollision. Please treat a hail as afriendly warning and not as aninsult;

• please be as quiet as possible -have respect for other river usersand avoid spoiling the enjoymentof others;

• be friendly and polite to localresidents and try to avoidarguments;

• follow the Countryside Code andhave regard for others’ property.

Specific guidance for thoseout on the water in a boat• all boaters must use the river in a

safe fashion and have appropriatesafety equipment;

• whenever possible come ashore atrecognised landing places;

• do not land on gravel shoals andislands between 1 April and 31July;

• there is an agreement for canoeingon the upper river. Details can befound atwww.wyeuskfoundation.org/navigation/index.php;


• obey the general rules ofnavigation and any local byelaws;

• in particular, remember that largerboats are less manoeuvrable andcannot use such shallow waters ascanoes, rafts and rowing boats;

• give way to those engaged inorganised competition and haveregard to any instructions given byofficials;

• canoeists should take care whenapproaching rowing boats trainingin the vicinity of Hereford, Rossand Monmouth. Please complywith the Collision Regulations andstay to the right hand side of theriver (when going up ordownstream);

• when boating in a group try tokeep together, especially whenpassing anglers;

• groups of young novice boatersshould be led by suitablyexperienced responsible persons– preferably a qualified instructor;

• if in doubt about where to pass orany other query, group leadersshould try to:

• keep away from banks beingfished;

• comply with reasonabledirectional requests;

• keep well clear of fishing tackle;

• avoid loitering in pools ifanyone is fishing;

• pass anglers with as little noiseand disturbance as possible.

• fishing from a boat is notallowed unless you have a validrod licence and permission fromthe owner/tenant of the fisheryrights. If you are boatingupstream of Hay onWye, thenpermission will also be requiredfrom the riparian owner.

Guidance for specificactivitiesThe following descriptions can helpidentify the various types of fishing.

Coarse fishing: These anglers areoften seen with an umbrella. Look outfor the float 5-10m out and try toavoid their area called a ‘swim’.

Fly fishing: Usually standing, wadingor on bank. Avoid area opposite and,as they keep moving downstream,avoid area downstream in particular.Watch for end of line.

Game/fly fishing: Sometimes bestto paddle behind them afteracknowledgement.

Fishing seasonsSalmon and Sea Trout:3 March to 17 October except aboveLlanwrthwl Bridge where season is3 March to 25 October.

Non Migratory Trout:3 March to 30 September

Coarse:16 June to 14 March



The Wye can be dangerous and hasbeen the site of many accidents. It isat its most dangerous when there arestrong currents, high water levels orcold weather conditions. Don’t takerisks and never underestimate thepower of the river. The Wye is a fastflooding river, which can rise afterheavy rain at a rate of over 30cm anhour. When in flood, it is best to keepoff the river altogether.

Daily river level informationWe offer an automated telephoneservice called River Call which providesinformation on levels for the River Wye.The telephone number for this serviceis 0906 619 7755 (BT premium rate).

Safety guidelinesAlthough common sense is the mostimportant requirement, the risk ofaccidents can be minimised byfollowing these simple guidelines:

• wear an approved buoyancy aid orlife jacket and helmet;

• inspect rapids before ‘shooting’them;

• you should never canoe alone, butif you must, let someone knowwhere you are going, yourestimated time of arrival, and letthem know when you have arrived;

• make sure that you can swim atleast 50 metres in the type ofclothing you’ll be wearing;

• carry a repair kit for your canoe,and make sure that you know howto use it;

• make sure that your canoe hasbuilt-in buoyancy or has inflatedbags inside to prevent it sinking ifyou capsize;

• if you wear glasses, tie them with apiece of string around the back ofyour head in case you capsize;

• if you have not canoed before,make sure someone withexperience goes with you;

• if your canoe has not been used forsome time ensure that it is river-worthy.

You should learn how to cope if anaccident occurs. Ideally you should beable to:

• help somebody who is in difficultyin the water or has capsized;

• give first aid;

• revive somebody who isunconscious.

Most of the above may seemobvious, but it is surprising how oftenthey are overlooked and lead to agreat deal of trouble, not only for theindividual, but also for other people.

Safety on the river


TidesBelow Bigsweir Bridge the Wye istidal and can be very dangerous,especially below Tintern. If you wishto canoe this stretch, leave Tintern nolater than one hour after high waterand travel down without stopping.Inexperienced canoeists are advisedto avoid this stretch and should on noaccount travel below Chepstow, ascurrents in the Severn Estuary areextremely dangerous.

In an emergency phone 999 and askfor Coastguard (coastal areas) orPolice (inland areas).

Finally ...if in doubt, don't !

Rafting at Monmouth


The quality of water in the River Wye isgenerally good, but unlike tap water itis untreated and contains naturalbacteria and other micro-organisms.Although the risk of contracting anillness is small, there are sensibleprecautions which you can take tostay healthy.

Health and hygieneguidelines• do not swallow river water;

• cover any cuts or sores with glovesor waterproof plasters;

• where possible, wash or showerafter taking part in water sports,especially if you have capsized;

• wash your hands before eating;

• see your doctor if you feel ill afterhaving taken part in water sports,particularly if you experience flu-like symptoms.

For detailed advice on the healthaspects of rivers, contact your localCouncil's Environmental HealthOfficer.

Leptospirosis(Weil's Disease)Leptospirosis is a bacterial infectioncaused when bacteria carried in theurine of infected animals enters theblood stream. The severity can varyfrom mild flu-like symptoms withsevere headache, to jaundice andmeningitis associated with Weil’sdisease.

The infection is caught by directcontact with bacteria in urine or apolluted environment. The bacteriacan enter the human body throughcuts, grazes, mouth or mucousmembranes such as those which linethe nose and ears. The usualincubation is 2 to 12 days. The illnessresolves in 2-3 weeks. A few casesdevelop jaundice, and then thecondition is known as Weil’s disease.

Leptospirosis is very rare, and thedeteriation into Weil’s Disease evenrarer. Weil’s Disease is a very seriousillness, and must be swiftlydiagnosed and treated. The earlierleptospirosis is treated the better, soconsult your doctor if you feel ill aftercoming into contact with wateranywhere in or near the river.

Following the precautions alreadygiven will greatly minimise anypossible risk.

Health and hygiene


ItineraryWe hope this guide provides usefulinformation to help you plan andenjoy your canoeing trips.

Every effort has been made to ensurethat the information is accurate. Noliability can be accepted for anyerrors, inaccuracies or omissions. Inparticular, readers should note thatdetails such as land ownership, campsites and landing places can changefrom year to year.

For convenience, the river betweenGlasbury and Chepstow has beendivided into 12 sections, each with acorresponding map. The sections arenot intended as day runs andcanoeists should decide forthemselves how far they can travelcomfortably in a day.

The first column in the itinerary is thedistance from Glasbury in kilometres;the second the distance in miles andthe third is the distance betweenpoints in miles.

Launching and landingCanoeists may launch or land at thepoints listed without needing to getexpress permission, unless statedotherwise. Landing may also bemade, with permission, at certainriverside campsites and throughindividual arrangements with somelandowners.

References to right or left bank referto the river as viewed lookingdownstream.

Be aware of the designated waterskiing zone between Livox Quarry(ST 543979) to Chepstow Castle(ST 531946). Chepstow railway bridgeto Beachley Point on the Severn isdesignated for all similar aquaplaningactivities.


Overview of map sections

0 4 82 Miles

0 4 8 12 162 Km

Crown Copyright. All rights reserved.Environment Agency, 100026380, 2007

1 Glasbury to Hay-on-Wye 5.5 miles2 Clifford to Turner's Boat 8 miles3 Turner’s Boat to Byford 7.75 miles4 Byford to Breinton Common 5.75 miles5 Hereford to Hampton Bishop 4.25 miles6 Confluence of River Lugg to Hoarwithy 9 miles7 Hoarwithy to Backney Common 7.75 miles8 Ross-on- Wye to Kerne Bridge 5.75 miles9 Kerne Bridge to Hadnock Island 11.75 miles10 Monmouth to Redbrook 2 miles11 Bigsweir Bridge to Tintern 6 miles12 Tintern to Chepstow 6.5 miles

12

11

10

9

8

7

65

4

3

2

1

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Rowing at Monmouth

Map 1 Glasbury to Hay-on-Wye

Gla

sbur

y

Hay

onW

ye

0

5

2

3

1

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmE



KM Miles Miles

0 0 Glasbury ( SH PH PC CH) NGR SO 179393Village with post office, shops and inn. Many small rapids, usuallyshallow over the next few miles. These may have to be waded. Launchon the left bank above bridge on Glas-y-Bont Common. Canoeists arerequested to launch from 18 October to 3 March between 10.00amand 4.30pm only. This is to avoid disturbing anglers – see red textbelow. Car park at junction of A438 and A4350.

5 3 3 Hollybush Inn ( PH CH) NGR SO 198404

8 5 2 Boatside Weir NGR SO 222427Natural weir at right hand bend, normally passable right, but inspectat low water.

9 5.5 0.5 Hay-on-Wye ( SH PH PC i CH) NGR SO 229426Welsh border and market town with post office, stores, hotels andinns. Castle ruins, but not open to the public. For 200m below thebridge there are shallows and no clear course. Immediately below thelanding place, beware of iron stakes in river bed on right, where DulasBrook joins the river. These may be just below the surface. Landing onright bank 100m below bridge. Steps. No permission required.Small car park.

13 8 2.5 Clifford NGR SO 242458Upstream of Hay Bridge there is no established legal right ofnavigation. An agreement exists that facilities shared access betweenthe anglers and paddlers. Please refer to www.wyeuskfoundation.orgfor further details.

Map 1 Glasbury to Hay-on-Wye

Key to Itinerary and Maps

NGR National Grid Reference i Tourist Information Centres

Camp site Launch/land point

PH Public House close to river PC Toilet

SH Shop CH Canoe hire

Distance in miles from Glasbury

Upstream of Hay Bridge there is no established legal right of navigation. An agreement existsthat facilities shared access between the anglers and paddlers. Please refer towww.wyeuskfoundation.org for further details.


Map 2 Clifford to Turner’s Boat

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmE


Whi

tney

Toll

Bri

dge

The

Boa

tInn

10

15

6

7

45


Map 2 Clifford to Turner’s Boat







KM Miles Miles

13 8 2.5 Clifford NGR SO 242458Ruins of Clifford Castle on right bank. Formerly an important bordercastle. Interesting remains of railway embankments. Do notlaunch/land on or near Clifford Common, sensitive wildlife site.

14.5 9 1 Rhydspence NGR SO 243473The border between Wales and England. The old inn on the main road(A438) left bank is the ‘first house’ in England.

16.5 10.25 1.25 Whitney-on-Wye ( SH ) NGR SO 258475Demolished railway bridge. Beware of underwater obstructions. Closelyfollowed by toll road bridge, built in 1774 and one of the few privatebridges left in the country. Land at steps on left bank just upstream ofbridge. Private. Fee payable for launching and use of car park. Apply toToll Bridge Cottage (Tel. 01497 831 669). Pub and shop are in village,10/15 minutes walk away.

17.5 11 0.75 Boat Inn (PH ) NGR SO 269265There is a small rapid which sets into the left bank. From here, for fourmiles the river takes several large meanders and there are someshallows which may have to be waded. Land at steps on left bank byBoat Inn.

19.5 12 1 Locksters Pool ( ) NGR SO 269462Deep pool on sharp left-hand bend. Large catches of salmon havebeen recorded in the series of salmon pools on this stretch.

25.5 16 4 Turner’s Boat ( ) NGR SO 313460


Map 3 Turner’s Boat to Byford

20

89

7

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmE



KM Miles Miles

25.5 16 4 Turner’s Boat ( ) NGR SO 313460The name of an island passable on the left. Some small rapids duringthe next few miles to Bredwardine Bridge.

31.5 19.5 3.5 Bredwardine (SH PH) NGR SO 337446Brick built six-arched bridge. Small village with post office, storeand inn.

34 21 1.5 The Scar, Brobury NGR SO 352445High sandstone cliff on left bank, clothed with beeches. Look out forseveral large boulders in river bed, often just below the surface.

34.5 21.25 0.25 Moccas Court NGR SO 358435Large Georgian mansion on right bank, built in 1783.The grounds around the house were landscaped by Capability Brown.

35 21.75 0.5 Moccas NGR SO 365433Abutments only remain of Moccas Toll bridge, which stood from 1868to 1960 when it was damaged by floods and not restored. Bewarestones close to surface.

36.5 22.5 0.75 Bycross ( ) NGR SO 376425

37 22.75 0.25 Monnington Falls NGR SO 375429See separate plan. Land on gravel bank on left for inspection of fallsonly. The channel, except in flood conditions, is to the left of the islandwith a small fall at the top. Inspect the whole run of fast water forobstructions and fallen trees.

37.5 23.25 0.5 Preston on Wye ( ) NGR SO 382426Church near right bank.

38 23.75 0.5 Byford ( ) NGR SO 400425Few houses on left bank. Weedy shallows as far as Bridge Sollers.Landing on left bank 200m below pumping station, in front of blackand white cottage. Overgrown area. Site of old ford. Access from roaddown narrow lane. No permission required. No parking or facilities.

Map 3 Turner’s Boat to Byford








Trees overhangingchannel

InspectionArea

Island

FLAT ROCKSArea dry atsummer levels

MAJOR FALLApproach closeto left bank

Land hereto inspect

Gravel Bank

8

Monnington Falls

0 100 20050 Yds

0 100 20050 MN



Land on gravel bank above falls on the left for inspection of falls only. You should hear the fallas you canoe round the corner. The fall and channel can be inspected as shown, by courtesy ofthe owner. Look carefully for the flat rocks, especially if the river has risen at all, and make surethat you can recognise the approach. Check the channel next to the island for fallen oroverhanging trees. Parties should tackle the fall individually and land on the right bank belowthe island or return up the right hand channel to land on the flat rocks.

Monnington Falls


Map 4 Byford to Breinton Common

25

30

Byford

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmE



KM Miles Miles

38 23.75 0.5 Byford ( ) NGR SO 400425Few houses on left bank. Weedy shallows as far as Bridge Sollers.Landing on left bank 200m below pumping station, in front of blackand white cottage. Overgrown area. Site of old ford. Access from roaddown narrow lane. No permission required. No parking or facilities.

40 24.75 1 Bridge Sollers NGR SO 413430Bridge across river.

43 26.75 2 Cannon Bridge NGR SO 432412Few houses on right bank. No bridge.

44.5 27.5 0.75 New Weir NGR SO 434419No weir now. Large attractive walled garden on left, well maintained bythe National Trust, with surviving masonry and a cistern from theRoman period. Gardens are open to the public from March to October.

47.5 29.5 2 Breinton Common NGR SO 451401Left hand channel round island.

54 33.75 4.25 Hereford ( SH PH PC i) NGR SO 509396

Map 4 Byford to Breinton Common








Map 5 Hereford to Hampton Bishop

Hereford

35

40

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmE



KM Miles Miles

54 33.75 4.25 Hereford ( SH PH PC i) NGR SO 509396Hereford grew up around an ancient river crossing, which explains itsname, meaning 'ford of the army'. Among the many places of interestare the cathedral and medieval chained library, the Old Housemuseum, Museum of Cider, city walls and the old castle site at CastleGreen. A variety of river crossings include the disused iron railwaybridge at Hunderton, the modern Greyfriars Bridge, the Wye Bridgebuilt in 1490 and the elegant Victorian suspension bridge of 1898.Landing on right bank below old road bridge. No permission required.Car parking nearby.

56.5 35 1.25 Bartonsham NGR SO 523387Sewerage outfall on left and private road bridge, followed by railwaybridge. Small rapid below railway bridge, passage to right.

61 38 3 Hampton Bishop NGR SO 550382Road (B4224) behind floodbank on left. The village inn, the 'Bunch ofCarrots', takes its unusual name from a salmon pool nearby. Nolaunching or landing permitted here.

67.5 42 4 Confluence of River Lugg NGR SO 565372

Map 5 Hereford to Hampton Bishop








Map 6 Confluence of River Lugg to Hoarwithy

Hoarwithy

Confluenceof the

River Lugg

Carey Islands50

11

45

10

40

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmN



KM Miles Miles

67.5 42 4 Confluence of River Lugg NGR SO 565372River Lugg joins the Wye from the left.

68 42.5 0.5 Holme Lacy Bridge/Mordiford ( CH) NGR SO 568364Modern bridge at the junction of the B4399 and the B4224. Landing atLucksall Caravan Park downstream on left, but only with priorpermission of owners (Tel. 01432 870 213).

74 46 3.5 Mancell's Ferry NGR SO 575327Fishing croy on left. Follow signs to keep to the right around bend.

75.5 47 1 Capler Hill NGR SO 588327Steep wooded slope on left bank, leading up to the double rampartsof Capler Camp, an Iron Age hill fort. A variety of birds inhabit thesewoods and dappled fallow deer may be sighted. From here to Ross, theriver follows several large meanders.

78 48.25 1.25 Carey Islands NGR SO 577307Group of islands with rapids in between. The best course is normally tothe right of the first island.

79 49 0.75 Carey NGR SO 570306Demolished railway bridge. One of three railway bridges crossing theWye between Ross and Hereford which were dismantled when theHereford to Gloucester line closed in 1964.

82 51 2 Hoarwithy ( SH PH) NGR SO 549295Road bridge with village on right bank. Post Office, inn and theprominent 'Italianate' church of St Catherine's which has featured in atleast three films. Landing on left bank about a quarter of a miledownstream of bridge. Prior permission should be sought from MrJenkins at Lower Ruxton Farm (Tel. 01432 840 223) for the left bank.Landing at steps on right bank. Fee payable for launching. Contact MrsRoberts at Tresseck Farm (Tel. 01432 840 235).

Map 6 Confluence of River Lugg to Hoarwithy








Map 7 Hoarwithy to Backney Common

Hoa

rwithy

60

55

13

12

11

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmE



KM Miles Miles

82 51 2 Hoarwithy ( SH PH) NGR SO 549295Road bridge with village on right bank. Post office, inn and theprominent 'Italianate' church of St Catherine's which has featured inat least three films. Landing on left bank about a quarter of a miledownstream of bridge. Prior permission should be sought fromMr Jenkins at Lower Ruxton Farm (Tel. 01432 840223) for the rightbank. Landing at steps on right bank. Fee payable for launching.Contact Mrs Roberts at Tresseck Farm (Tel. 01432 840235).

85.5 53 2 Sellack NGR SO 565280Suspension footbridge.

87 54 1 Strangford NGR SO 578286Demolished railway bridge on the old Hereford to Gloucester line.

88.5 55 1 Fawley Chapel NGR SO 591294Interesting chapel on left bank (no public access from river).

89.5 55.75 0.75 How Caple NGR SO 600298The Inglestone Estate. For 2 miles downstream, the salmon pools areindicated by red and green discs fixed to the trees. Please observethese and paddle on the green side of the river.

91.5 57 1.25 Hole-in-the-Wall NGR SO 609287PGL canoe centre on left bank with private access just above rapids.

92 57.25 0.25 Foy NGR SO 605284Elegant suspension footbridge, built after an earlier structure wasswept away by floods in 1919. Current restricted by small islands.Channel varies according to level. Church on right after 400m.

94.50 58.75 1.5 Backney Common NGR SO 589269A simple metal cross sits on the left bank. This commemorates an actof bravery by the rector of Brampton Abbotts in 1904, who died whilstsaving his son and his daughter's friend from drowning. Demolishedrailway bridge 400m downstream at Backney. Weedy shallows.

99.5 61.75 3 Ross-on-Wye ( SH PH PC i ) NGR SO 596244

Map 7 Hoarwithy to Backney Common








Map 8 Ross-on-Wye to Kerne Bridge

Kerne Bridge

Ross on Wye

65

13

70

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmN



KM Miles Miles

99.5 61.75 3 Ross-on-Wye ( SH PH PC i ) NGR SO 596244Long curve on river from motorway bridge to Wilton Bridge. The markettown of Ross sits attractively on a rise above the river, with a backdropof wooded hills. Interesting features to visit include the market house,plague cross and museums. Landing at steps on left bank 100m belowthe Hope and Anchor pub. Steps, no permission required. Car parkingnearby. Please do not land or launch at Wilton Bridge.

100 62.25 0.5 Wilton Bridge NGR SO 59024313th Century castle on right before bridge, not open to the public. Usemiddle arch of the stone bridge and channel to the right of the island.

107.5 66.75 4.5 Goodrich Castle NGR SO 577199Impressive Norman fortification set against the skyline on the right,managed by English Heritage and open daily throughout the year.

108.5 67.5 0.75 Kerne Bridge ( PH PC) NGR SO 581192Gravel bank approximately 50m downstream of bridge. Land here toinspect the fast water for obstructions and fallen trees. Landing atsteps on left bank 800m below road bridge. Picnic site and car park.No permission required. Goodrich village 800m to the right. Please donot land/launch at the bridge.

Map 8 Ross-on-Wye to Kerne Bridge








Map 9 Kerne Bridge to Hadnock Island

Sym

onds

YatE

ast

Sym

onds

YatW

est

Ker

neB

ridg

e

Low

erLy

dbro

ok

75

15

80

70

14

16

17

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmE



Map 9 Kerne Bridge to Hadnock Island







KM Miles Miles

108.5 67.5 0.75 Kerne Bridge ( PH PC) NGR SO 581192Gravel bank approximately 50m downstream of bridge. Land here toinspect the fast water for obstructions and fallen trees. Landing atsteps on left bank 800m below road bridge. Picnic site and car park.No permission required. Goodrich village 800m to the right. Please donot land/launch at the bridge.

112 69.5 2 Lower Lydbrook ( PH) NGR SO 596170Inn on left bank above rapids. Keep to the left of the island downLydbrook shallows. Landing on left bank at the steps to the picnic siteand car park. Launching for individuals but NOT groups. Donationsrequested in honesty box.

112.5 70 0.5 Welsh Bicknor ( ) NGR SO 591177Church and youth hostel on right bank followed by a railway bridge,now used as a footbridge. This is an important fishing stretch. Pleasepass through quietly and do not linger.

116 72 2 Symonds Yat Rock NGR SO 551172Start of the long loop in river. The 150m high limestone bluff ofSymonds Yat Rock is visible on the left.

121.5 75.5 3.5 Symonds Yat West ( PH) NGR SO 557164Landing and launching from the steps on right bank about 1kmupstream of rapids. Car park available. Fee payable. Small passengercarrying pleasure boats based here. Landing at Ye Olde Ferrie Inne onthe right bank. Permission required from the Inn (Tel. 01600 890 232).

122.5 76 0.5 Symonds Yat East ( PH CH PC) NGR SO 561160See separate plan. Small passenger carrying pleasure boats and a 'ropeand cable' ferry for crossing the river are based here. Grade 2 rapidsbelow the Yat can be inspected from the Peregrine Way cycle path on leftbank. Large waves in the lower parts and congestion possible. Landingand launching from the steps on the left bank at the Wyedean CanoeCentre (Tel. 01600 890 129). Fee payable. Car parking available.

124.5 77.5 1.5 The Biblins ( ) NGR SO 549145Narrow suspension bridge across river. Landing for campers only.

127.5 79.25 1.75 Hadnock Island NGR SO 538155Pass either side of island. Left side usually less weedy.

132 82 2.75 Monmouth ( PC SH PH CH i) NGR SO 512129


Symonds Yat

Rapids to leftof river island

Symonds Yat East

16

0 100 20050 Yds

0 100 20050 MCrown Copyright. All rights reserved.

Environment Agency, 100026380, 2007N


A straight fast rapid, just below the ferry, stretches the length of the island. This can beinspected from the Peregrine Way cycle path on left bank. Watch particularly for standing wavesat the lower end of the rapid. A waymarked footpath can be followed to Yat Rock. The views areworth the climb and there is a cafe at the top.

Symonds Yat


Map 10 Monmouth to Redbrook

Monmouth

85

18

Confluenceof the RiverMonnow

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmN



KM Miles Miles

132 82 2.75 Monmouth ( PC SH PH CH i) NGR SO 512129River runs alongside main road with the attractive town to right with aruined castle, market, Nelson Museum and the Naval Temple on KyminHill. Monmouth derives its name from the Monnow river which isbridged by a unique 14th century fortified gate house. Landing atsecond set of steps on right immediately downstream of rowing clubby car park. No permission required.

132.5 82.5 0.5 Confluence of River Monnow NGR SO 512122River Monnow joins the Wye from the right. Beware of underwaterobstructions resulting from the demolition of the two railway bridges.Rocky shallows in this area.

135 84 1.5 Redbrook (SH PH) NGR SO 536100Village with shops on left and inn on right. Large boulders in riverabove disused railway bridge now used as a footbridge. It was atRedbrook that the last recorded act of piracy took place on the RiverWye when men came down from the Forest of Dean and captured twobarges. There is no record of their arrest.

141 87.5 3.5 Bigsweir Bridge NGR SO 539051

Map 10 Monmouth to Redbrook








Map 11 Bigsweir Bridge to Tintern

Brockweir Bridge

Bigsweir Bridge

90

19

95

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmN



KM Miles Miles

141 87.5 3.5 Bigsweir Bridge NGR SO 539051Narrow road bridge on the A466. Note that this is the upstream limit oftidal water. Rapids 800m downstream of bridge.

142 88.5 1 Llandogo (SH PH) NGR SO 526041Village with shops and inn on right. There are some rapids betweenthis point and Tintern and the banks become muddy from here.

147 91.5 3 Brockweir Bridge ( SH PH) NGR SO 539011Village on left with shops and inn. Landing at restored stone landingon left bank just upstream of bridge, although this can be awkwardand muddy at low tide. No permission required. Very limited carparking in village. Alongside the river are the remains of old quayswhere supplies from sailing barges were loaded and unloaded in thepast. Rapids below bridge when tide is out. Important: From thispoint, the river should only be used by canoeists with reasonableexperience. There is currently no landing site at Tintern or downstreamafter Chepstow as dangerous weirs are exposed at low water.

149.5 93 1.5 Old Railway Station, Tintern NGR SO 536006Café, Information Centre and picnic area on right.

150.5 93.5 0.5 Tintern (SH PC PH i) NGR SO 535000Village on right with shops and inns. Footbridge across river. Ruins ofa magnificent 12th century Cistercian abbey and now popular touristattraction on the right. The tide is considerable and canoeists shouldleave Tintern not later than one hour after high water and travelstraight through to Chepstow. High water at Tintern is 4 hours beforehigh water at Dover.

161 100 6.5 Chepstow ( SH PC i) NGR SO 535944

Map 11 Bigsweir Bridge to Tintern








Map 12 Chepstow

Chepstow

100

103

95

0 0.5 10.25 Miles

0 0.5 1 1.50.25 KmN



KM Miles Miles

150.5 93.5 0.5 Tintern (SH PC PH i) NGR SO 535000See map 11. Village on right with shops and inns. Footbridge acrossriver. Ruins of a magnificent 12th century Cistercian abbey and nowpopular tourist attraction on the right. Important: Canoeists shouldleave Tintern not later than one hour after high water and travelstraight through to Chepstow.

161 100 6.5 Chepstow ( SH PC i) NGR SO 535944Walled market town with extensive remains of a 11th century Normancastle and town gate. Landing on slipway near Boat Inn. Please notethat landing here usually involves wading through soft mud that canbe very dangerous. Limited car parking nearby.

Canoeists are recommended not to attempt to canoe below Chepstow as the junction with theRiver Severn has very dangerous currents.

Map 12 Tintern to Chepstow









The list below is intended as a guideto camping facilities bordering theWye. While attempts have been madeto ensure that the list is as accurate aspossible, it is not intended to bedefinitive and sites will change fromyear to year. You are strongly advisedto check details in advance, especiallyfor groups.

Facilities vary and some sites are nomore than a farm field with a watersupply. Further information aboutcamping and other accommodationcan be obtained from local TouristInformation Centres.

Accommodation

Key

F field only D drying facilities S shower

Sh shop LP launching/landing point CH canoe hire

W water T toilets

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River Access:

Open:Facilites:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilites:

S0 198 404On right bank, groundsadjoining river

All yearT SW D LP CH Sh B&B

SO 197 437No

All yearSW T Wb D

SO 225 431No

March to OctoberT S D

SO 259 475Land at concrete steps onleft bank - just upstreamof bridge.All yearT W LP

1 Ms B LewthwaiteHollybush InnOld Brecon RoadHay-on-WyeHR3 5PST: 01497 847 371

2 Mr D Lloyd JonesBorders Hideaway Holiday Home ParkClyroNr Hay-on-WyeHR3 5SGT: 01497 820 156

3 Mr and Mrs DaviesRadnors End CampsiteRadnors EndHay-on-WyeHR3 5RST: 01497 820 780

4 Mr HuxtableWhitney Toll BridgeWhitney-on-WyeHerefordshireHR3 6EWT: 01497 831 669


NGRRiver access

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:

Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

SO 268 473Steps on left bank just pastBoat Inn. Campsite acrossroad, opposite InnAll yearW T LP (B&B) Sh nearby

SO 269 462On right bank at left handbend (small shingle beach)

All yearW LP ( B&B at farmhouse)

SO 311 459Shingle beach on rightbank, top end ofTurner’s BoatMay to OctoberF LP

SO 376 425400 metres upstreamof Monnington Falls onright bankAll yearT W S LP

SO 384 424On right bank, 1km belowMonnington Falls

March to OctoberW LP T in summer

SO 567 363On left bank, 200m belowHolme Lacy Bridge1 March to 30 NovemberPlease book for groupsof 10 or moreT W S LP Sh

SO 549 294On left bank, 400m belowHoarwithy Bridge

Mid July to end AugustF W LP

SO 547 292Steps on right bank

Easter to end SeptemberF W LP T

5 Mr and Mrs TaylorThe PoundWhitney-on-WyeHerefordshireHR3 6EHT: 01497 831 391

6 Mrs SMasonOakfield FarmLocksters PoolCliffordHerefordshireHR3 5HJT: 01497 831 373

7 Mr D A PriceThe WestonBrewardineHerefordshireHR3 6DDT: 01981 500 396

8 Mr and Mrs FennByecross FarmMoccasHerefordshireHR2 9LJT: 01981 500 284

9 Mr J PriceNew Court FarmPreston on WyeHerefordshireHR2 9JUT: 01981 500 349

10 Mr and MrsWilliamsLucksall Camp SiteMordifordHerefordshireHR1 4LPT: 01432 870 213E: [email protected]

11 Mr H JenkinsLower Ruxton FarmKings CapleHerefordshireHR1 4TXT: 01432 840 223

12 Mrs RobertsTresseck FarmHoarwithyHerefordshireHR2 6QJT: 01432 840 235E: [email protected]


NGR:River access:

Open:

Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:Open:Facilities:

NGR:River access:

Open:Facilities:

SO 591 177On right bankabove church.Private landing stagemarked with YHA triangle.March to October.Advance booking advised.T SW D Sh LP

SO 556 174On right bank about 1kmupstream of rapidsMarch to OctoberT W S LP CH

SO 561 160On left bank aboveSaracen’s Head Ferry

March to DecemberT W S LP CH

SO 549 145On right bank just over1km downstream ofSymonds Yat rapids.Landing for campers only.March to end OctoberT W S LP(organised youth groups only,advance booking essential)

SO 502 129Noall yearT W S

SO 548 006No

All yearT W

13 Youth HostelWelsh BicknorRoss-on-WyeHerefordshireHR9 6JJT: 01594 860300E: [email protected]

14 Symonds Yat Caravan ParkSymonds Yat WestRoss-on-WyeHR9 6BZT: 01600 890 672

15 Mr and Mrs HowellsWyedean Canoe CentreSymonds Yat EastRoss on WyeHR9 6JLT: 01600 890 129W: www.wyedean.co.uk

16 The Biblins CampsiteThe DowardWhitchurchRoss-on-WyeHR9 6DXT: 01600 890 850E: [email protected]

17 Drybridge Street Caravan ParkMonmouthNP25 3EXT: 01600 714 004

18 Dawn CracknellBeeches FarmTiddenham ChaseBrockweirChepstowNP16 7LZT: 01291 689 257


Chain ferry at Symonds Yat


Tourist information centresChepstow: Tel: 01291 623 722

Email: [email protected]: Tel: 01432 268 430


Email:[email protected]: Tel: 01989 562 768


www.rhayader.co.ukBuilth Wells: Tel: 01982 553 307

www.builth-wells.co.uk

Useful websitesEnvironment Agency Wales: www.environment-agency.gov.uk

Countryside Council for Wales: www.ccw.gov.uk

Natural England: www.naturalengland.org.uk

Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: www.wyevalleyaonb.co.uk

Sport England: www.sportengland.org

Amateur Rowing Association: www.ara-rowing.org

Welsh Canoeing Association: www.welsh-canoeing.org.uk

British Canoe Union: www.bcu.org.uk

Gloucester Harbour Trustees: www.gloucesterharbourtrustees.org.uk

Sustrans: www.sustrans.org.uk

Herefordshire: www.visitherefordshire.co.uk

Monmouthshire: www.visitwyevalley.com

Forest of Dean: www.forestofdean.gov.uk

Wye Valley Tourism: www.wyevalleytourism.co.uk

Wales Tourist Board: www.visitwales.com

British Tourist Agency: www.visitbritain.com

Wye and Usk Foundation: www.wyeuskfoundation.org

Severn Area Rescue Association: www.sara-rescue.org.uk

The British Outdoor Professionals Association (BOPA): www.the-bopa.co.uk

The Best of Both Worlds: www.bobw.co.uk


TransportNational Rail enquirieswww.nationalrail.co.ukTel: 08457 484 950

Public Transport Informationwww.traveline.org.ukTel: 0870 6082 608

MapsOrdnance Survey 1:50,000 series

Sheet 161Glasbury to 3km below Hay-on-Wye0-11kms

Sheet 148Hay-on-Wye to 1km above Brewardine9-30kms

Sheet 1491km above Brewardine to 2kms belowHoarwithy and bend around Foy30-84kms and 87-92kms

Sheet 1621km below Hoarwithy to ChepstowExcluding the bend around Foy84-87kms and 92-161kms

Ordnance Survey Outdoor Leisure1:25,000 Series

No.14Kerne Bridge to Severn Estuary

AcknowledgementsWe are indebted to Ron andRuth Shoesmith who wrote previouseditions of this guide and to the lateAllen Greenhill who was the co-authorof the first edition back in 1968 andthe inspiration behind its publication.

Wye Management AdvisoryGroup (WyeMAG)WyeMAG has been in existence since1993 and has the aim of ensuringco-operation by public bodies with aninterest in management of the RiverWye. Its membership includes:

Countryside Council for Wales;Natural England; the EnvironmentAgency; Gloucestershire CountyCouncil; Herefordshire Council;Monmouth County Council; PowysCounty Council; Sports Council forWales; Sport England West Midlands;Wye Valley Area of OutstandingNatural Beauty and representatives ofboating, fishing, conservation andlandowner interest from the usersgroup, the Wye Forum.

Notes

GEMI1011BUJD-E-E

Environment first: This publication is printed on a syntheticpaper called Polyart. It provides a waterproof, tear resistant

finish to ensure its longevity. It can also be recycled.

Would you like to find out more about us,or about your environment?

Then call us on03708 506506 (Mon-Fri 8-6)

[email protected]

or visit our websitewww.environment-agency.gov.uk

incident hotline 0800 80 70 60 (24hrs)

floodline 0845 988 1188

Documents

Environment Agency Canoeists' guide to the River Wye