Best attractions and places to see around How Caple include a blend of historical sites, natural features, and cultural interests. This village, nestled in the Herefordshire countryside, offers views across the River Wye towards the Welsh hills and the Forest of Dean. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks and enjoy scenic natural features, making it a base for discovering the wider region.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
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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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In the words of the National Tranport Trust - Wilton Bridge is an exceptionally fine red sandstone bridge. In 1597 an Act was passed authorising its construction. It was completed within the next 2 years. There are five semi- circular arches each with 3 ribs and massive cutwaters on each side, carried up and splayed back from the outer angle at parapet level forming semi-hexagonal refuges. At the point where the splay dies out is a moulded string which is mitred and carried up to the angle against the spandrils of the arches and then mitred and carried across to form a label above the arches. The voussoirs of the arches are chamfered and joggled and have various masons' marks. On the upstream side the bridge has been widened but now the parapet has been replaced by a wooden handrail. The South East approach to the bridge has been rebuilt in ashlar with 2 flights of stone steps to the river bank. The sundial, formerly in one of the refuges has disappeared, and only the base of the pedestal remains. All in all it is a fine bridge, and has done well to weather the floods that happen most winters - as evidenced by the erosion of even the top stones on the arches.
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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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Great stopping point and a hub for rides in all directions. Plenty of coffee shops
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Located on Wilton Road just outside Ross-on-Wye, Wilton Bridge, constructed between 1597 and 1599, is crafted from red sandstone. It replaced a previous wooden bridge that had taken the place of the original ford in the Wye.
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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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How Caple is nestled overlooking the River Wye, offering beautiful southerly views towards the Welsh hills and the Forest of Dean. You can explore the picturesque Wye Valley through various walking and cycling routes. A notable natural attraction is Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails, which provides excellent routes through ancient woodland, showcasing a rich habitat for numerous butterflies and moths.
Yes, How Caple and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the historic How Caple Court Gardens, known for its extensive formal designs and views. Within the grounds is St. Andrew and St. Mary's Church, a medieval church with parts dating back to the 13th century, featuring intricate stained-glass windows. Additionally, the Capler Camp Hillfort, an Iron Age hillfort, offers historical insight and scenic views over the Wye Valley.
The area around How Caple is ideal for walking and hiking. You can find numerous routes exploring the Wye Valley, leading to ancient hillforts, through woodlands, and along the riverbanks. For easy hikes, consider routes like the Fownhope Parish Stocks – River Wye Walk loop or the River Wye and Mansell's Ferry loop. You can find more details on these and other trails in the Easy hikes around How Caple guide.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Ross-on-Wye Market Town and St Mary’s Church is a charming place to explore with its independent stores and colorful homes. Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails offers two short, accessible trails through ancient woodland, perfect for children to spot butterflies and moths. The Sellack Suspension Bridge is also a fun historical footbridge to visit across the River Wye.
How Caple itself offers beautiful southerly views across the River Wye valley towards the Welsh hills and the Forest of Dean. The Capler Camp Hillfort on Capler Hill provides excellent panoramic views. Additionally, the charming market town of Ross-on-Wye Market House, perched above the River Wye, offers picturesque scenes of the town cascading down to the river.
Ross-on-Wye is a charming market town situated near How Caple, known for its historical significance in nature tourism. It features independent stores, 19th-century mock-Gothic walls, a Gazebo Tower folly, and colorful homes cascading down to the River Wye. The Ross-on-Wye Market House is a notable sandstone building in the town center, and the town serves as a gateway to the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean.
Yes, there are various cycling routes available. For road cycling, you can explore routes like the Hoarwithy Bridge – Ross-on-Wye Market House loop or the St Mary's Priory Church – Ross-on-Wye Market House loop. If you prefer gravel biking, options include the Peregrine Path to Symonds Yat or the Kensley Ridge Gravel Road. More details can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around How Caple guide and the Gravel biking around How Caple guide.
The best time to visit How Caple largely depends on your interests. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the gardens at How Caple Court, exploring the butterfly trails at Haugh Woods, and engaging in outdoor activities along the River Wye. The vibrant colors of autumn also offer beautiful scenery for walks. While winter can be tranquil, some outdoor attractions might have reduced hours or be less accessible.
Beyond the main highlights, you might enjoy discovering Wobage Farm Pottery, which is often mentioned in connection with local walks and offers an opportunity to observe local crafts. The Sellack Suspension Bridge, built in 1895, also has an interesting local story about its construction and the vicar who crossed the Wye on stilts.
The area is rich in wildlife, particularly at Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails. This ancient woodland is a significant site for UK butterfly conservation, providing a habitat for nearly 350 hectares of land. You can expect to see a wide variety of butterflies and moths, with over 600 species recorded here, making it a prime spot for nature enthusiasts.
Many of the walking routes in the Wye Valley and surrounding woodlands are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the picturesque countryside with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock, and check for any specific local restrictions or lead requirements, particularly in nature reserves or sensitive wildlife areas like Haugh Woods.
For local crafts, Wobage Farm Pottery is a point of interest often linked with local walks, providing an opportunity to see and potentially purchase local artisan work. In the nearby market town of Ross-on-Wye Market House, you'll find a variety of independent stores offering unique items and local produce.
Wilton Bridge, located just outside Ross-on-Wye, is an impressive red sandstone bridge constructed between 1597 and 1599. It replaced an earlier wooden bridge and is notable for its historical architecture, featuring five semi-circular arches and massive cutwaters. It's a fine example of 16th-century engineering that has withstood centuries of floods.
Yes, there are several easy walks in the area. The Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails offer two short routes with good paths underfoot, suitable for a leisurely stroll. Additionally, the Easy hikes around How Caple guide lists several routes, such as the Fownhope Parish Stocks – River Wye Walk loop, which are graded as easy and generally suitable for most abilities.
The charming market town of Ross-on-Wye Market House, a short distance from How Caple, offers a good selection of cafes, pubs, and shops where you can find refreshments and meals. Many of the local walking routes also pass by or near establishments where you can stop for a break.


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