Attractions and Places To See around Upton Bishop - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Upton Bishop include a mix of historical landmarks and natural features within the Herefordshire countryside. The village is situated near the River Wye and the Wye Valley National Landscape, offering scenic vistas and outdoor opportunities. Visitors can explore ancient crossing points, historic market towns, and distinctive hills with panoramic views. The area provides a variety of attractions to discover, from historical sites to natural summits.
Best attractions and places to see around Upton Bishop
- The most popular attraction is May Hill Summit, a summit known for its distinctive "hat of trees." It offers far-reaching views towards the Welsh border and over the River Severn.
- Another must-see spot is Ross-on-Wye Market House, a historical site located in the charming market town of Ross-on-Wye. The town features independent stores and colorful homes cascading to the river.
- Visitors also love St Margaret's Church, Welsh Bicknor, a historical religious building. This church, founded before 1800, features stained glass and carved Caen stone.
- Upton Bishop is known for historical sites, natural summits, and river views. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including ancient bridges and market towns.
- The attractions around Upton Bishop are appreciated by the komoot community, with 88 upvotes and 35 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
May Hill Summit
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Kerne Bridge over the River Wye
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Ross-on-Wye Market House
Highlight • Settlement
Originating from the first travel guidebook by William Gilpin in 1782, it inspired picturesque tourism.
It has independent stores, 19th-century mock-Gothic walls, a Gazebo Tower folly, and colourful homes cascading down the hillside to the river.
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St Margaret's Church, Welsh Bicknor
Highlight • Historical Site
The entry for Welsh Bicknor in Littlebury's Directory of Herefordshire, 1876-7 tells us that St Margaret's Church is "a small but exquisitely beautiful building, situated on the bank of the river Wye. It occupies the site of the former edifice, and was erected in 1858 from the designs of Mr. Thomas H. Rushforth, of Regent street, London, at a cost of £2,680, the whole of which was defrayed by the late rector and Stephen Allaway, Esq." It consists of nave (in the Norman style), chancel with vestry attached, south aisle, western porch, and tower (in the Early English style). The interior is adorned with beautiful stained glass by Clayton & Bell, of London, while the pulpit, reading desk, font, &c., are splendid specimens of carving in Caen stone, inlaid with different-coloured marbles and alabaster. The organ was built by Gray & Davison, of London, and is a fine-toned instrument. The altar table and chancel stalls are of carved oak. There are 96 sittings in the body of the church, all free. The only ancient monument is an effigy, supposed to be that of the Countess of Salisbury, nurse to Henry V. It occupies a niche in the east wall of the aisle.
Source: Littlebury's Directory of Herefordshire
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Sellack Suspension Bridge
Highlight • Historical Site
Before the bridge was built, a ferry would take residents from bank to bank. However, it has been said that the boatmen could often be cantankerous and refuse passage. This caused one vicar to defiantly cross the Wye on stilts, or so the story goes...
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Tips from the Community
Fabulous and iconic Sandstone building, centrepiece of Ross on Wye.
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According to Harper Bridges - This bridge was commissioned by the congregations of the churches of Sellack Boat and King’s Caple and built in 1895. The towers are of tubular cast iron, with nameplate transoms embossed “Louis Harper AIMCE, Maker, Aberdeen”. The original cables to common anchorages are still in place, as are their hangers. However, at some stage (nobody seems to know when or why) further short cables were clamped to the original, presumably to support areas of wear and avoid cable replacement. This has led to crowding at the saddles. However, the bridge is still used and the local churches continue to hold their ‘Bridge Thanksgiving’ ceremony each year. This area is noted for its flooding but so far the bridge has held since the arched deck remains above the flow, although the approaches are inundated. It lacks the original longitudinal deck boarding but the original camber is well maintained. This bridge is the best illustration of the method of attachment of hangars to main cable employed by John and Louis Harper
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Enjoy the walk up from Clifford Mesne, and then taken in the expansive views. Don't miss the copse at the top, planted to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.
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Great stopping point and a hub for rides in all directions. Plenty of coffee shops
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Great viewpoint gor the river Wye and Goodrich castle.
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Nestled by the River Wye, Ross-on-Wye is a charming market town. Originating from the first travel guidebook by William Gilpin in 1782, it inspired picturesque tourism. It has independent stores, 19th-century mock-Gothic walls, a Gazebo Tower folly, and colourful homes cascading down the hillside to the river.
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Perched above the River Wye, Ross is a pretty market town that played a significant role in nature tourism's history. In 1770, William Gilpin started organising boat trips down the Wye. Some believe that this was the very origin of the Picturesque Movement, leading people to appreciate the natural world and its beauty. Ross has a lot to offer the hiker. Gateway to the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean, it is also within easy driving distance of the Brecon Beacons, the Cotswolds and the Malverns.
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Quite a local landmark hereabouts, especially if you are on the river. An ancient crossing point that has been about in one way or another since roman times. An important bridge connection on the Wye that at one stage was tolled. Failure to pay the toll made you liable to a £5 fine. Some things have never changed!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near Upton Bishop?
The most prominent natural attraction is May Hill Summit, known for its distinctive 'hat of trees' and offering far-reaching views towards the Welsh border and over the River Severn. The village is also in close proximity to the Wye Valley National Landscape, providing scenic vistas and opportunities for outdoor activities along the River Wye.
Are there good viewpoints for scenic vistas in the area?
Yes, May Hill Summit offers excellent panoramic views towards the Welsh border and over the River Severn. Additionally, the charming market town of Ross-on-Wye, with its colorful homes cascading to the river, provides picturesque views, especially from areas around the Ross-on-Wye Market House.
Where can I find walking or hiking trails around Upton Bishop?
The area around Upton Bishop is excellent for walking. May Hill Summit is crossed by two named trails, the Gloucestershire Way and the Wysis Way, offering various hiking options. For more structured routes, you can find numerous running trails, including moderate loops like the 'Dymock Lake loop from Upton Bishop', which are suitable for walking. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Upton Bishop guide.
What historical sites are there to visit near Upton Bishop?
The region boasts several historical sites. You can visit Kerne Bridge over the River Wye, an ancient crossing point with Roman origins. The nearby market town of Ross-on-Wye features the historic Ross-on-Wye Market House. Other notable sites include St Margaret's Church, Welsh Bicknor, a beautiful religious building founded before 1800, and the impressive Sellack Suspension Bridge built in 1895. Further afield, you can find Eastnor Castle and Goodrich Castle.
Are there any notable bridges or ancient crossings in the region?
Yes, the area is home to significant bridges. Kerne Bridge over the River Wye is an ancient crossing point with a history stretching back to Roman times. Another impressive structure is the Sellack Suspension Bridge, a footbridge built in 1895 to connect the parishes of Sellack and Kings Caple across the River Wye.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities around Upton Bishop?
The charming market town of Ross-on-Wye, with its independent stores and picturesque setting, is family-friendly. The wider region also offers various recreational activities suitable for families, including animal attractions like children's farms and wildlife parks, and water attractions such as lakes and opportunities for kayaking.
What kind of cycling routes are available near Upton Bishop?
For cyclists, there are diverse options. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes like the 'Wilton Bridge – Hoarwithy Bridge loop from Brockhampton' or more challenging trails in the Forest of Dean. Gravel biking routes are also available, such as the 'Peregrine Path to Symonds Yat – Forest of Dean Family Trail loop from Walford'. You can find detailed routes in the MTB Trails around Upton Bishop guide and the Gravel biking around Upton Bishop guide.
Can I find running trails around Upton Bishop?
Absolutely. The area offers a variety of running trails, ranging from moderate to difficult. Examples include the 'Dymock Lake loop from Upton Bishop' (8.26 km, moderate) and the 'St Edward's Church, Kempley – Dymock Woods Off-Track loop from Upton Bishop' (11.83 km, moderate). For more options, refer to the Running Trails around Upton Bishop guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Upton Bishop?
Visitors particularly enjoy the far-reaching views from May Hill Summit and the sense of accomplishment from hiking to its top. The charming atmosphere and historical significance of Ross-on-Wye, especially around the Market House, are also highly appreciated. The historical context and scenic river views around Kerne Bridge are also popular.
Are there any dog-friendly walks or attractions in the area?
Many of the natural trails and outdoor areas around Upton Bishop are suitable for dog walking. May Hill Summit and its surrounding paths are popular for walks with dogs. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow local guidelines, especially around livestock or protected areas.
What is the best time to visit Upton Bishop for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit for outdoor activities generally spans from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the days are longer. This period is ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural beauty of the Wye Valley and May Hill. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
Are there pubs or cafes near the attractions in Upton Bishop?
Yes, the nearby market town of Ross-on-Wye, home to the Ross-on-Wye Market House, offers a good selection of cafes, pubs, and shops. You can also find local pubs in and around Upton Bishop itself, providing refreshments after exploring the area's attractions.
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Most popular attractions around Upton Bishop
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