The historic village of Garway dates back to the 7th century and boasts a 12th century Knight Templar church, a thriving village community and an excellent 18th century pub serving real ales and a menu inspired by fresh, locally-sourced produce. The village lies south west of Hereford on a hill above the River Monnow from where many lovely walks and cycle trails can be enjoyed, and the Herefordshire Trail runs close by. The summit of Garway Hill offers 360 degree panoramic views of seven counties and is a haven for wildlife with over 70 species of birds, many moths, butterflies and protected newts, which can be found in the pond near the summit. White mountain ponies and sheep also graze freely on the hill, which also has remains of an Iron Age settlement. Nearby the pretty village of Symonds Yat straddles the beautiful River Wye with its natural scenery and magnificent limestone ‘rock’, popular with climbers. Symonds Yat is situated overlooking the beautiful Wye Valley and is close to the magnificent Royal Forest of Dean, England’s largest oak forest. This is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering numerous trails that can be explored on foot, bicycle or horseback. Caving, abseiling and a high wire rope course are on offer for the more adventurous, whilst fishing, golf, kayaking and canoeing are other popular activities in this unspoilt area. Visit the historic riverside town of Monmouth with its mixture of elegant Georgian mansions and Victorian courtyards, or the lovely town of Ross-on-Wye with its timbered Tudor houses and delightful riverside walks, both offering excellent shops, pubs and restaurants.
