4.5
(65)
467
hikers
30
hikes
Hikes around Fownhope explore the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and paths along the River Wye. The routes offer a mix of riverside walking, woodland trails, and ascents to viewpoints such as the Iron Age hillfort at Capler Camp.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.6
(19)
57
hikers
10.2km
02:52
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
3.0
(2)
9
hikers
8.07km
02:15
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(2)
6
hikers
5.51km
01:34
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(4)
55
hikers
12.2km
03:08
50m
40m
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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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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This is a beautiful area. Walking through Joan’s Hill Farm Nature Reserve and the surrounding countryside epitomises the best of the English countryside. You will be surrounded by undisturbed woodland, flower rich meadows and wildlife.
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Kate Humble the Tv presenter once said 'The Wye Valley Walk passes through this beautiful part of the world which I am lucky enough to call home. Don’t rush the walk.' No truer words have been said. The Wye Valley, by foot or canoe, is as good as it gets anywhere.
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Lea & Pagets Wood is arguably one of the finest ancient woodlands in the Hereford and Wye Valley area. Springtime sees large carpets of bluebells making a spectacular appearance and the whole area becomes an important eco system for the local butterfly population especially white admirals and wood whites.
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If walking outside the wood with dogs beware not all styles are easily passable and are a high step over
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Choose paths wisely some are gravel topped others are earth paths, but great area for dogs
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Around 50 acres of beautifully preserved meadowland, rich and diverse in wildlife including many rare wildflowers.
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Yes, the area around Fownhope is generally very dog-friendly, with many trails passing through open countryside and woodland. The nearby Moccas Hill Wood is a particularly popular spot for dog walking. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially near livestock, and be mindful of local signage.
Fownhope village has on-street parking, but it can be limited. There is also a free car park at the Fownhope Recreation Field. For walks starting in Haugh Woods, such as the well-regarded butterfly trail, there is a dedicated free parking area. Always park considerately and check for any local restrictions.
Yes, Fownhope offers several easier walks suitable for families. The area has 16 designated easy routes. A great option is the Joan's Hill Farm Nature Reserve from Haugh Wood — Wye Valley walk, which is a moderate but relatively short loop of 3.4 miles (5.5 km) through varied woodland and fields.
Many circular walks from Fownhope can easily incorporate a stop at one of the village's pubs. The village itself is a hub for several trails, allowing you to start and end your hike with a refreshment. The routes often pass through the village centre, making it convenient to plan a break.
For a classic woodland experience, the Haugh Woods loop — Wye Valley is an excellent choice. This 5-mile (8.1 km) trail takes you through one of the most important ancient woods in the area, famous for its butterflies and well-maintained paths.
Yes, several trails follow the banks of the River Wye. The long-distance Wye Valley Walk passes directly through Fownhope, offering beautiful riverside scenery. For a shorter route that includes a stretch along the river, consider the Riverbank View – Holy Rood Church, Mordiford loop from Mordiford, which showcases the peaceful river views.
The Fownhope area is rich in biodiversity. In Haugh Woods, you can spot numerous butterfly species along the dedicated trails. The woodlands, like Lea & Pagets Wood, are home to various birds, and you might see deer. The meadows and orchards of Common Hill Nature Reserve also support a wide range of flora and fauna.
Absolutely. A highlight of the area is Capler Camp, an Iron Age hillfort that offers panoramic views. The popular Capler Camp Hill Fort loop from Fownhope — Wye Valley is a 6.3-mile (10.2 km) hike that takes you directly to this historic landmark.
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the combination of riverside paths, ancient woodland, and the stunning views from the rolling hills, particularly from the top of Capler Camp.
There are over 30 curated hiking routes around Fownhope available on komoot. These are split evenly between moderate and easy trails, offering plenty of options for different fitness levels and experiences, from short village strolls to more challenging woodland treks.
Yes, Fownhope is accessible by bus from the nearby city of Hereford, which has a major train station. This makes it possible to reach the trailheads without a car. Be sure to check the latest bus timetables before you travel.


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