Top 6 Natural Monuments around How Caple
Natural monuments around How Caple are characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and the meandering River Wye. This area in Herefordshire offers a picturesque landscape with diverse natural features. Visitors can explore a rich tapestry of natural attractions, including significant woodlands and elevated viewpoints. The region's natural beauty and geological features create an environment for outdoor experiences.
Best natural monuments around How Caple
- The most popular natural monuments is Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails, a natural monument and forest that…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails
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Holy Rood Church, Mordiford
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Capler Camp Hillfort
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Higgins' Well
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Swardon Quarry Viewpoint
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Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails are two short trails that meander the ancient woodland of Haugh Woods. The trails have been set up by Forestry England to allow everyone to enjoy the numerous butterflies and moths that live here. This is an important site for UK butterflies (we are in short supply!) and this woodland gives nearly 350 hectares or 850 acres for them to breed. There are about over 600 of both species living here!
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Hidden a quiet part of Little Birch village, the brickwork of Higgins' Well dates from the early 19th century. Some improvements were added later, including a large pool as an animal trough for use during Victoria's diamond jubilee. Higgins Well has long been an important and unfailing supply of water for the village. A local legend about the well, as told on http://www.visitoruk.com/Hereford/little-birch-C592-V11335.html runs as follows: "The original outlet for the waters of the well was in a meadow at the top of the steep bank which rises above the present well. The owner of this meadow became so annoyed at the trespasses of the villagers across his land to the well that he had it filled up. However, shortly afterwards, while smoking his pipe in the great chimney corner of his house, he was startled by a sudden eruption of water under his feet." "To his untutored mind, the waters forcing this new outlet were a sign that the guardian spirit protecting the local people's rights was asserting itself. To appease this spirit, but determined not to reopen the well, he moved down to the present site and started to dig. In due course water began to bubble up through the underlying rock and, miraculously, the inrush in the chimney corner disappeared. The water spirit was obviously satisfied that water was once again made available to the people. This "act of contrition" resulted in local immortality for Mr Higgins."
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Holy Rood Church is a pretty parish church that is synonymous with the Mordiford Dragon; the legend of which has changed with the paintings of it in the church. Holy Rood has a 12th century core with a 13th century but was largely rebuilt in 1811 after flooding. It is Grade II-listed.
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Beautiful viewpoint for a picnic or snack break. Views looking towards Dinedore Hill and Hereford to the Black Mountains.
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Haugh Woods has 2 butterfly trails (of short distance) that provide a great route through the north and south of the woods, respectively. Good paths underfoot, and great butterfly habitat.
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A small picnic area and car park, with huge views across Dinedore Hill and Hereford to the Black Mountains
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Holy Rood Church is a pretty parish church that is synonymous with the Mordiford Dragon; the legend of which has changed with the paintings of it in the church. Holy Rood has a 12th century core with a 13th century but was largely rebuilt in 1811 after flooding. It is Grade II-listed.
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Capler Camp is a large Iron Age hill fort on Capler Hill overlooking the Wye Valley. Many of the ramparts and ditches are still visible today and you are afforded a lovely view from the fort. Excavations have revealed stone foundations on the site. Roman Coins plus artefacts from the Bronze Age and Iron Age have also been found.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features define the landscape around How Caple?
The area around How Caple is characterized by its picturesque rolling hills, the meandering River Wye, and ancient woodlands. This rich tapestry of natural beauty creates a captivating environment for outdoor exploration, rather than distinct, singular natural monuments.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments to visit near How Caple?
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails offer two short routes through ancient woodland, perfect for observing butterflies and moths. Swardon Quarry Viewpoint also provides a small picnic area and car park, making it an easy stop for families to enjoy expansive views.
Where can I find panoramic views of the Herefordshire countryside?
For sweeping panoramic views, visit Swardon Quarry Viewpoint, which offers vistas across Dinedore Hill and Hereford towards the Black Mountains. Another excellent spot is Capler Camp Hillfort, an Iron Age site that provides extensive views over the Wye Valley.
What historical sites are considered natural monuments in this area?
Capler Camp Hillfort is a significant Iron Age hill fort with visible ramparts and ditches, offering historical context alongside its natural viewpoint. Additionally, Holy Rood Church, Mordiford, while primarily a religious building, is also considered a natural monument due to its historical significance and association with local legends like the Mordiford Dragon.
Are there walking trails through ancient woodlands?
Yes, the area is rich in ancient woodlands. Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails provide two short, well-maintained routes through ancient woodland, which is an important habitat for UK butterflies and moths. Yatton Wood, another ancient woodland, is particularly noted for its carpet of bluebells in late spring and offers various walking opportunities.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around How Caple?
Late spring is particularly rewarding, especially for experiencing the ancient woodlands like Yatton Wood, which are noted for their vibrant bluebell displays. Clear days in any season will offer the best panoramic views from elevated spots like Swardon Quarry Viewpoint.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, including those for touring bicycles, gravel biking, and mountain biking. Many trails weave through the ancient woodlands and along the River Wye, providing excellent opportunities for walking and enjoying the natural scenery.
Is there parking available at the natural monuments?
Yes, Swardon Quarry Viewpoint has a small car park, making it convenient for visitors. For other locations, it's advisable to check local signage or specific highlight details for parking information.
What is the significance of Higgins' Well?
Higgins' Well is a historical site with brickwork dating from the early 19th century. It has long been an important and unfailing water supply for Little Birch village, and a local legend tells of its origins and a guardian spirit ensuring water availability for the community.
What makes the River Wye a significant natural feature in the area?
The River Wye is a dominant natural element, flowing through a steep-sided, wooded gorge in parts, particularly around Symonds Yat. Its banks are characterized by lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife, and the Wye Valley is recognized as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering scenic walks and opportunities to appreciate diverse flora and fauna.
Are there any natural monuments that are also important for wildlife?
Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails are specifically designed to showcase the importance of Haugh Woods as a habitat for UK butterflies and moths. This ancient woodland provides a rich environment for nearly 600 species of both, making it a crucial site for biodiversity.
What kind of geological features can be observed around How Caple?
The geology of the Wye Valley is notable for its rich red sandstone, contributing to a distinctive setting. The rolling hills around How Caple are characteristic of the English Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, featuring relatively low dipping rocks and long-wavelength folds. These geological formations create the area's unique landscape.
Most popular attractions around How Caple
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