Towns
Hereford
An old walled city, dating from Saxon times, Hereford is now a hub of local and national cultural events. It is also the area's livestock and agricultural centre. Visit Hereford Cathedral to see some fine examples of architecture from Norman times to the present day. View the famous Mappa Mundi and the world's largest Chained Library. The cathedral also hosts recitals and concerts.
Ross-on-Wye
Ross-on-Wye is the only town within the boundaries of the AONB. An historic market town, it is built on a cliff overlooking a large loop in the river. Visit St Mary's Church, the nearby Prospect Gardens, and the Market House Heritage Centre. Stroll around the town centre or meander along the riverside. Follow the John Kyrle Walk and find out more about the life and good works of "The Man of Ross", whose title was immortalised by the poet Pope.
Monmouth
A market town adjacent to the AONB, one of Monmouth's gems is the unique medieval gatehouse on the 13th Century Monnow Bridge. The streets are filled with interesting shops and a wide choice of pubs, restaurants and café's. Visit The Castle and Regimental Museum. The castle, now ruined, was the birthplace of King Henry V, the victor of Agincourt. The Regimental Museum tells the histories of both the castle and The Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers. Nearby, the Nelson Museum is also a local history centre. It houses one of the world's best collections of personal and commemorative objects associated with the famous admiral. Free admission.
Coleford
The attractive market town of Coleford is surrounded by industrial history. Visit nearby Puzzlewood to explore ancient iron surface mines, referred to locally as Scowles, which pre-date the Roman period. Go underground to visit the ancient iron mines at Clearwell, still mined to this day to produce ochre for artists. The Forest 's railway history is on show at the Great Western Railway Museum , based in the original GWR goods station at Old Station Way, Coleford. The town itself has some interesting historic buildings and a selection of craft and specialist shops.
Chepstow
A bustling border market town, dominated by its clifftop castle, Chepstow lies just outside the AONB. Chepstow Museum, displays the history and development of the town, once an important port. Spend some time exploring the winding back streets, taking in the old town walls and the 15th Century gatehouse. There are regular race meetings at nearby Chepstow Racecourse, which is situated within the grounds of historic Piercefield Park.
