The best walks and hikes around Alvington
4.5
(1684)
12,983
hikers
486
hikes
Hiking around Alvington offers access to diverse landscapes, including the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the ancient Forest of Dean. The region is characterized by dramatic river gorges, extensive woodlands, and panoramic viewpoints. Trails often follow the River Wye and traverse areas with unique geological formations and historical sites. This varied terrain provides options for different fitness levels and interests.
Best hiking trails around Alvington
- The most popular hiking route is Offa's Dyke Path: St Briavels Loop, a 9.0 miles (14.6 km) trail that takes 4 hours 20 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores ancient woodlands and offers views of the Wye Valley.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Slade Brook Travertine Dams loop from St Briavels, an easy 3.4 miles (5.4 km) path. This trail allows exploration of unique geological formations within a scenic Wye Valley setting.
- Local hikers also love the River Wye & Hewelsfield Church loop from St Briavels — Wye Valley, an 8.8 miles (14.2 km) trail leading through the Wye Valley and past a historic church, often completed in about 4 hours 3 minutes.
- Hiking around Alvington is defined by ancient woodlands, river gorges, and limestone plateaus. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paths to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Alvington are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1500 reviews. More than 11,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Alvington's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.8
(9)
47
hikers
14.6km
04:21
450m
450m
Hike the moderate 9.0-mile Offa's Dyke Path: St Briavels Loop, exploring ancient woodlands, Wye Valley views, and historic sites.
4.1
(10)
53
hikers
5.42km
01:32
120m
120m
Embark on an easy hike around the Slade Brook Travertine Dams loop from St Briavels, a route that takes you through peaceful woodlands and open fields. You will discover the unique geological formations of the Slade Brook Travertine Dams, a series of approximately 60 natural dams, and enjoy glimpses of the scenic Wye Valley. This easy loop covers 3.4 miles (5.4 km) with an elevation gain of 399 feet (122 metres), and you can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 32 minutes. As you start, you will also pass by the historic 12th-century St Briavels Castle, adding a touch of history to your journey.
Parking is generally available in St Briavels, offering convenient access to the trailhead for this hike. While the route is easy, be aware that the paths can be uneven in places. It is also possible for sections to be very muddy, especially after rain, so choose your footwear accordingly. You might encounter stiles along the way and pass through fields that could contain livestock, so keep an eye out.
This trail is notable for its unique geological features, specifically the Slade Brook Travertine Dams. These natural dams are a fascinating example of how water and minerals can shape the landscape over time, creating a distinctive series of formations. The area is part of the scenic Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, providing a beautiful backdrop for your exploration of these natural wonders.
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4.0
(6)
44
hikers
14.2km
04:03
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
13.0km
03:54
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
19
hikers
4.78km
01:18
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a very attractive bridge; I love the diamond-trussed side rails. You have a great view of the River Wye from here. It is not the busiest of bridges, but be careful, as there is only a narrow pavement section on the one side for pedestrians.
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Brockweir is a small, very quaint village located just north of Tintern. It has a surprisingly large number of listed buildings in its midst, including the chapel, bridge, and post office, to name but a few. The piece de resistance, however, is the Monks Hall, often referred to as 'The Malt House'. It's a beautiful old building and is believed to date back to the 14th century. It is one of the oldest houses in the Wye Valley and has been painstakingly renovated.
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This is another elegant cast-iron road bridge that has been built over the river Wye. It was constructed in 1827 and is another grade 2 listed building.
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Brockweir is a small but attractive village located alongside the River Wye north of Tintern on the Gloucestershire side of the river.
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Opened in 1908 to replace a ferry. It was designed and built by E Finch and Co's foundry of Chepstow and was restored in 1986 by Sheppard Adkins (Engineering) Ltd.
2
0
A lovely little village with some beautiful old buildings, including an 14th century monks Hall, which is now a home!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Alvington?
There are nearly 500 hiking trails around Alvington, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. Over 250 of these are considered easy, 194 are moderate, and 19 are more challenging.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on hikes near Alvington?
Hiking around Alvington offers diverse landscapes, including the stunning Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with its dramatic river gorges and panoramic viewpoints, and the ancient Forest of Dean, known for its extensive woodlands. You'll also find unique geological formations and limestone plateaus.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Alvington area?
Yes, there are many easy routes suitable for families. An excellent option is the Slade Brook Travertine Dams loop from St Briavels, an easy 3.4-mile path that allows exploration of unique geological formations in a scenic Wye Valley setting. Another easy choice is The George Pub – St Briavels Castle loop from St. Briavels, which is about 3 miles long.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while hiking near Alvington?
The area is rich in historical and natural landmarks. You can explore the unique Slade Brook Travertine Dams, the ancient woodland of Puzzlewood, or visit historic sites like St Briavels Castle. Many trails also offer views of the River Wye and the impressive Devil's Pulpit, which overlooks Tintern Abbey.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Alvington?
Yes, many routes in the Alvington area are circular. For example, the moderate Offa's Dyke Path: St Briavels Loop is a 9-mile circular trail exploring ancient woodlands and offering Wye Valley views. Another option is the River Wye & Hewelsfield Church loop from St Briavels, an 8.8-mile moderate route.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Alvington?
The trails around Alvington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1500 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, from dramatic river gorges to tranquil ancient woodlands, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities. The historical sites and panoramic viewpoints are also frequently highlighted.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails near Alvington?
The Alvington area, with its extensive woodlands and open spaces, is generally dog-friendly. Many trails in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are suitable for walks with dogs. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially near livestock or in nature reserve areas, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.
Are there any routes that pass by historical castles?
Absolutely. The area is home to several historic castles. You can start a hike from St Briavels Castle, which stands almost 800 feet above sea level. A moderate option is the St Briavels Castle – Bigsweir Bridge loop from St. Briavels, which offers a glimpse into the past while enjoying the Wye Valley scenery. Further afield, Chepstow Castle is also a magnificent fortress worth exploring.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Alvington?
The Alvington area is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and fresh greenery to the woodlands, while autumn offers stunning foliage colors across the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. Summer is great for longer days, and even winter can be rewarding with crisp air and unique views, though some paths might be muddy.
Are there any trails that offer views of the River Wye?
Many trails in the Alvington area provide captivating views of the River Wye, as it's situated near the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The River Wye & Hewelsfield Church loop from St Briavels is a prime example, taking you directly along the riverbanks and past historic sites with scenic vistas.
What is the typical duration of hikes around Alvington?
Hikes around Alvington vary significantly in duration. Easy routes, like the Slade Brook Travertine Dams loop, can be completed in under two hours. Moderate trails, such as the Offa's Dyke Path: St Briavels Loop, typically take around four to five hours, depending on your pace and stops.
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