Ross-on-Wye (pop. 7,200) is located on the Wye west of Gloucester. The town is noted for its antique shops and market square offering Thursday and Saturday markets. St Mary's Church is a prominent landmark in Ross-on-Wye along with The Prospect, a public garden.
Goodrich Castle is an English Heritage property. Its name was taken from Godric, who built the first structure here in the beginning of the 12th century. The grey sandstone keep is from the mid 12th century and the red sandstone buildings are from the 13th century.
The castle once belonged to the Earls of Pembroke, and later to the Talbots (Earls of Shrewsbury). During the Civil War the castle was held by the Royalists and the Parliamentarians. Wordsworth's "We Are Seven' was inspired by a little girl he met here in 1793.
Address: Goodrich Castle, Goodrich, Ross-on-Wye HR9 6HY, England
Hours:
March 21 to May 31: 10am-5pm
June 1 to August 31: 10am-6pm
September 1 to October 31: 10am-5pm
November 1 to February 29: 10am-4pm
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24), Christmas - Christian (December 25), Day after Christmas, St Stephen's Day, Boxing Day (December 26)
Tips: Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
Parking: Free
Disability Access: Partial facilities for persons with disabilities.
How Caple Court Gardens are located very near Ross-on-Wye. Wander around the 11 acres of gardens and soak inthe relaxing atmosphere created by the water features and the Edwardian formal and woodland gardens.
Address: How Caple Court Gardens, Hereford Road, Ross-on-Wye HR1 4SX, England
The Ross-on-Wye International Festival offers the best in international arts. Comedy, Dance, Film, Opera, Music and Theatre are featured by classical and contemporary artists. Many events take place in the Ross-on-Wye Pavillion Theatre while others take place throughout the town centre during the week.
Address: Ross-on-Wye Tourist Office, Swan House Edde Cross Street, Ross-on-Wye HR9 7BZ, England
Tips: The festival runs during the last two weeks of August.