4.5
(269)
1,809
hikers
102
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Capler Wood are set within a landscape characterized by dense woodlands, including ancient semi-natural forests, and the River Wye. The region features riverside paths and local hills, offering varied terrain for hikers. Capler Wood is known for its ecological richness and historical sites like Capler Camp Hill Fort. The area provides a network of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.8
(5)
20
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(10)
89
hikers
8.47km
02:18
110m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
25
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The needle spire of the church of St John the Baptist can be seen for miles around due to its position high on the hill on which King's Caple is situated.
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This unusual and eyecatching church up on it's hill dominates the village of Hoarwithy, and it's most spectacular feature is the Italianate tower.
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This is a particularly fine stretch of the river Wye, as recognized by the Wye Valley National Landscape. The stretched out village of Hoarwithy occupies the west bank, with its unusual Italianate St Catherine's church. The river is crossed by the old toll bridge with it's little Tollhouse - they stopped collecting tolls in the 1930's when the bridge was bought for public ownership.
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A fine church high on it's hill that can be seen for miles across the valley. Just up the road is the Manor, again a fine building made of the local sandstone.
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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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This area has a few churches dedicated to welsh or Irish saints, as is the case here. Tyslio was the second son of the reigning King of Powys, Brochwel Ysgithrog, and the maternal nephew of the great Abbot Dunod of Bangor Iscoed. He took part in the affairs of Wales during the distressful period at the opening of the 7th century. Tysilio probably started his career in Trallwng Llywelyn (Welshpool) and afterwards took up residence in Meifod where he studied under Gwyddfarch. Around 630, Tysilio moved to an island in the Menai Strait, (now called Ynys Tysilio, where he established a hermitage, and preached throughout Ynys Môn for the next seven years. He then returned to Meifod, where he talked the aging abbot out of making a pilgrimage to Rome. Eventually, Tysilio succeeded Gwyddfarch as abbott. Also of note is the tall narrow spire, which is a feature of several churches in this area - such as Ross, Peterstow and Kings Caple. Many others in Herefordshire have square dumpy towers instead.
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The view from the northern end of Ridge Hill towards Ledbury in the east.
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There are over 100 hiking trails around Capler Wood that are accessible from bus stations. These routes cater to various preferences, with a good mix of easy and moderate options.
The majority of bus-accessible hikes around Capler Wood are either easy or moderate. Out of over 100 routes, 46 are classified as easy and 56 as moderate, making the area suitable for most hikers. There are also a few more challenging options for experienced walkers.
Many trails follow the scenic River Wye, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. You'll also encounter dense ancient woodlands, which are particularly beautiful in late spring when bluebells carpet the forest floor. Look out for diverse ground flora and butterfly populations.
Yes, several routes pass by significant historical sites. For instance, the Capler Camp Hillfort – River Wye and Mansell's Ferry loop from Fownhope takes you past Capler Camp, an Iron Age hill fort offering expansive views and a glimpse into ancient societies.
Late spring is particularly recommended for hiking around Capler Wood, especially for experiencing the spectacular bluebell carpets in the ancient woodlands. However, the area offers beautiful scenery year-round, with riverside paths and woodlands providing pleasant walks in all seasons.
Absolutely. Many of the easy routes are suitable for families. For example, the Fownhope Parish Stocks – River Wye Walk loop from Fownhope is an easy, relatively flat walk along the River Wye, perfect for a family outing.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails around Capler Wood. However, please ensure they are kept under control, especially when passing through farmland or areas with livestock, and always clean up after them. Some routes, like the King Caple Church and The Tump – Sellack Suspension Bridge loop from Harewood, offer varied terrain that dogs typically enjoy.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 250 ratings. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the stunning views of the River Wye, and the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, especially during the bluebell season.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible trails are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. An example is the Sollershope Farm – View of TV Mast and May Hill loop from Fownhope, which offers a longer, moderate circular trek with rewarding views.
The Capler Viewpoint, accessible via various trails, offers spectacular vistas of the River Wye and its expansive floodplain. Additionally, the Capler Camp Hill Fort provides panoramic views to the south and west, making it a great spot for scenic photography.
For those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, the Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails – Holy Rood Church, Mordiford loop from Fownhope is a moderate route covering over 11 km with significant elevation gain, offering a more extensive exploration of the area's woodlands and historical sites.


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