Saturday 19th June 2010 – Ross on Wye

The Saturday walk of the BAGS Packed weekend is always the long one and today was 9 miles starting at Goodrich Castle. After walking through Goodrich village, we were soon ascending the long ridge of Coppet Hill. The view from the folly at the northern end were lovely. We were able to see west to the Black Mountains in Wales and north to the Malvern Hills in England. The path descended through varied woodland until we emerged to find the majestic Wye flowing past. We picnicked on the banks and watched many canoes going down stream. John engaged the crews in conversation, berating those who weren't paddling fast enough, knowing that he was on the bank and safely out of reach!
The Wye in this area meanders, producing large loops and after walking for about 2 miles alongside the river we turned away from it to cut off one of these loops. We found the river again opposite the the village of Kerne Bridge where there is a canoe centre, no doubt the source of many of the canoes that had passed us. Joining the road at the actual Kerne Bridge we passed the remains of the Augustinian Flanesford Priory and soon arrived back at Goodrich Castle.
John and Peg had booked The White Lion just over the Wye from Ross. This gave us a short walk along by the river before crossing the bridge to arrive at the pub set on the banks. The Wye is very broad at this point and shallow due to the lack of rain over the last two months. Many swans were swimming and feeding in the current, producing a lovely sight in the evening light. We had a drink sat in the garden, watching the river flow pass before moving in for dinner. Again, we had our own room but this time it was called The Gaol. The windows were barred and it was once apparently used as a gaol although, being on the first floor and having many windows, it didn't fit the stereotype of a dank, dismal dungeon. Once again the food was very good and the real ale was excellent.
Photos: The unusual organ in Goodrich Church; The BAGS walking; Some of the many canoes on the Wye.