Best attractions and places to see around Oxenhall, a village in the Forest of Dean district of Gloucestershire, offer a blend of rural tranquility and historical interest. The area is characterized by rolling countryside, ancient woodlands, and scattered farmsteads. Visitors can explore historical landmarks and natural features that define this part of England.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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Fabulous and iconic Sandstone building, centrepiece of Ross on Wye.
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A lovely little town built on hilly ground so the streets go up and down, with the Market Hall on stilts in a prominant location.
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The most southerly Malvern, with fine views south to May Hill.
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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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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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Marks the southern end of the Malverns - fine view south to May Hill in Gloucestershire.
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Foy and Hole-in-the-Wall are two villages near Ross-on-Wye that are actually split by the River Wye. Foy is on one side and Hole-in-the-Wall is on the other. In times gone by crossing from one part to the other was only possible by ferry or ford but in 1876 a suspension bridge was built and a very pretty one it is too.
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Oxenhall and its surroundings offer several historical points of interest. You can visit St Anne's Church, a medieval church with 12th-century origins and a significant Norman lead font. Another notable site is the Oxenhall Canal Tunnel, part of the historic Herefordshire and Gloucestershire Canal, which features an original lock keeper's cottage and the Ell Brook Aqueduct nearby. The area also boasts 18 listed buildings, including medieval timber-framed structures like Crooke's Farm and White House Farm. Further afield, explore Ross-on-Wye Market Town and St Mary’s Church, a historical market town known for its role in nature tourism.
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty and offers several scenic viewpoints. You can hike to May Hill Summit, which provides far-reaching views towards the Welsh border and over the River Severn. Another excellent viewpoint is Chase End Hill Summit in the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering panoramic views across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. The area also features ancient woodlands like Hay Wood and the Ell Brook stream, contributing to the tranquil, rolling countryside.
Oxenhall is an excellent base for outdoor activities, particularly hiking. You can find numerous trails, including moderate options like the 'May Hill & Huntley Hill loop' or the 'St Mary's Church, Kempley loop'. For easier walks, consider routes such as the 'May Hill loop' or the 'Grazing Horses Viewpoint – May Hill Summit loop'. Many of these routes are detailed in the Hiking around Oxenhall guide and the Easy hikes around Oxenhall guide.
Families can enjoy exploring the charming market town of Ross-on-Wye Market Town and St Mary’s Church, which is noted as a family-friendly historical site. The area also offers easy walking trails suitable for children, such as those found in the Easy hikes around Oxenhall guide. The natural landscapes, including the Daffodil Way during spring, provide pleasant outdoor experiences for all ages.
The best time to visit Oxenhall to witness the wild daffodils is typically in spring, when the area is transformed into the 'Golden Triangle'. This region, especially between Newent, Kempley, and Dymock, is famous for its daffodil displays. Guided walks are often available during this season to showcase the scenic daffodil spots and managed wildlife areas like Gwen and Vera's fields.
Beyond the well-known spots, Oxenhall offers unique attractions like the Oxenhall Canal Tunnel, a significant piece of industrial history with its 'Legger's Rest' recess. The surrounding area is also home to numerous listed buildings, including medieval timber-framed farmhouses like Crooke's Farm and White House Farm, which offer a glimpse into the region's architectural heritage. The tranquil ancient woodlands, such as Hay Wood, also provide a peaceful escape.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views from summits like May Hill Summit and Chase End Hill Summit, often highlighting the far-reaching panoramas. The charming market town of Ross-on-Wye Market House is appreciated for its independent shops, cafes, and pubs, as well as its historic character. The overall tranquility, natural beauty, and the opportunity for pleasant hikes through rolling countryside are also highly valued by visitors.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of Oxenhall. You can find moderate routes like the 'St. Anne's Church, Oxenhall – Traditional Brick Farmhouse loop from Newent' or the 'Hay Wood – St. Anne's Church, Oxenhall loop from Gorsley and Kilcot'. For more challenging runs, consider the 'Boulsdon Manor – Newent Market House loop'. More options are available in the Running Trails around Oxenhall guide.
While Oxenhall itself is a small village, nearby towns like Newent and Ross-on-Wye offer dining options. Ross-on-Wye Market House, for instance, is located in a charming market town with numerous cafes, pubs, and shops. These towns provide convenient spots to refuel after exploring the local attractions and trails.
The Oxenhall Canal Tunnel is a significant historical landmark, being the 13th longest canal tunnel in England, stretching 2192 yards (1.24 miles). Opened in 1798, it was a crucial part of the Herefordshire and Gloucestershire Canal, linking Hereford to Gloucester. The section near Oxenhall also features a series of locks, an original lock keeper's cottage, and the Ell Brook Aqueduct, all contributing to its historical importance. Restoration efforts are ongoing, making it an interesting site for walks.
Oxenhall showcases a rich architectural heritage, primarily featuring historical buildings. You can observe the medieval origins of St Anne's Church, though largely rebuilt in the 19th century. The area also includes Oxenhall Court, a 17th-century rectory farmhouse, and the former National School, now Oxenhall Parish Hall, built in 1842. Additionally, the parish is home to 18 listed buildings, including medieval timber-framed structures like Crooke's Farm (with a 15th-century cross-wing) and White House Farm (17th-century origins).


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