The best walks and hikes around Rowlstone
4.6
(378)
2,806
hikers
122
hikes
Hiking around Rowlstone offers diverse outdoor experiences within Herefordshire's distinctive red sandstone country. The region provides scenic views of the Black Mountains, which form part of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Trails often traverse pleasant woodlands and follow river valleys, showcasing varied terrain. This landscape provides options ranging from gentle walks to more challenging ascents.
Best hiking trails around Rowlstone
- The most popular hiking route is River Monnow – Woodland Climb loop from Grosmont, a 5.4 miles (8.6 km)…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
5.0
(2)
18
hikers
11.9km
03:24
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
6.73km
02:14
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
23.7km
07:10
750m
750m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
10.5km
02:55
190m
190m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
18.1km
05:36
650m
650m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Ewyas Harold is a charming village set in the heart of scenic Herefordshire. A village that really is quintessentially English. There are the remains of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle and a charming church, namely St Michael's and All Angels Church, that enhances the atmosphere of this typical English rural village. It is a gateway to other rural hamlets and churches and near the famous Three Castles Walk.
0
0
Grosmont Castle is maintained by Cadw, and at the moment there is a lot of work going on with the refurbishment of the timber footbridge spanning the castle ditch, i.e., the entrance. Therefore, the castle is closed between February 2026 and September 2026. It is still worth a visit as you can still walk around it and get some impression of mediaeval life from viewing this grand structure.
0
0
St Michael's and All Angels Church is situated in the centre of the attractive village of Ewyas Harold. It is a stunning Norman-influenced, but mainly English Gothic, church. It dates from the 13th century, and apparently the walls of the tower are seven foot thick, hinting at it being the primary building at one point and used for protection purposes. The tower houses six bells, which are rung weekly.
0
0
St Bridget's is a super quaint church in Skenfrith village, right next door to the equally charming Skenfrith Castle. It was built in 1207, and it is reputed to be one of the oldest churches to be in continuous use in Wales. It is a beautiful church with a large, rather squat tower with a narrow wooden clapperboard effect near the top. It is unique and quite different to other Welsh churches. It is so important to keep this Christian heritage alive in Wales, especially this fine example.
0
0
Skenfrith Castle is a beautiful ruined castle owned and run by the National Trust in the quaint village of Skenfrith. It's a lovely valley setting next to the River Monnow, and right next door is the equally charming St Bridget's Church. The castle was originally established by the Normans in the wake of the invasion of England in 1066 to protect the route from Wales to Hereford. In 1135, a major Welsh revolt took place, and in response, King Stephen brought together Skenfrith Castle and its sister fortifications of Grosmont and White Castle to form a lordship known as the "Three Castles", which continued to play a role in defending the region from Welsh attack for several centuries. It is obviously a ruin now, but the walls are still substantial, and the fulcrum of the place is the imposing, commanding keep. This is a three-storey, 12-metre-high circular keep built around 1219–1244 by Hubert de Burgh. There is good parking there and plenty of green space for picnics and parking. There is also no charge for entry. A great place to visit, along with nearby Grosmont and White Castle.
0
0
Garway Hill 366.6m P266 (1203ft) (DoBIH Hill ID: 2857) [JNSA 10985] TP3331 - Garway Hill S6429 FB height 366.832m #960
0
0
As you descend from Ewyas Harold Common, you get a panoramic view of the little village of Abbey Dore with it's magnificent abbey.
0
0
The river Dore at Pontrilas is more substantial, not long before it joins the River Monnow.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Rowlstone?
There are over 120 hiking trails around Rowlstone, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 35 easy routes, 66 moderate routes, and 22 difficult routes, catering to different fitness levels and preferences.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking near Rowlstone?
Hiking near Rowlstone takes you through distinctive red sandstone country, offering unique visual appeal. You'll also enjoy scenic views of the Black Mountains, part of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Many routes traverse pleasant woodlands and follow river valleys, providing a diverse natural experience.
Are there any circular walks available in the Rowlstone area?
Yes, many of the trails around Rowlstone are circular. For example, you could explore the Angel Inn – Grosmont Castle Ruins loop from Grosmont, which is a moderate 6.7 km route, or the longer Dore Abbey – Ewyas Harold Church loop from Ewyas Harold, covering 11.9 km.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints to discover on hikes near Rowlstone?
Hikers can discover several interesting landmarks and viewpoints. You might encounter the historic Grosmont Castle Ruins on routes like the Angel Inn – Grosmont Castle Ruins loop from Grosmont. For stunning vistas, consider routes that offer views of the Black Mountains, or explore highlights such as the View of Hatterrall Hill and the Black Mountains, or the Garway Hill summit.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced walkers?
Yes, for experienced walkers seeking a challenge, there are 22 difficult routes available. A notable option is the St. Bridget's Church – Garway Hill summit loop from Grosmont, a demanding 23.6 km trail that includes significant elevation gain.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Rowlstone?
The hiking routes in Rowlstone are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from quiet woodlands and river valleys to the stunning views of the Black Mountains, and the well-maintained paths that cater to different abilities.
Are there any historical sites accessible via hiking trails?
Yes, some trails connect you to historical sites. For instance, the Dore Abbey – Ewyas Harold Church loop from Ewyas Harold links these two historical churches through the local countryside. You can also visit the Grosmont Castle Ruins on the Angel Inn – Grosmont Castle Ruins loop from Grosmont.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Rowlstone?
Rowlstone offers enjoyable hiking throughout much of the year. The diverse landscapes, from red sandstone country to woodlands and river valleys, are beautiful in spring and autumn with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter walks can be crisp and offer unique views, though some paths might be muddy.
Can I find trails that follow river valleys?
Yes, many local walks in the Rowlstone area traverse pleasant woodlands and follow river valleys. An example is the River Monnow – Woodland Climb loop from Grosmont, which features views of the River Monnow.
Are there any specific peaks or summits I can hike to near Rowlstone?
While Rowlstone itself is not directly on a major peak, the wider region offers access to notable summits. You can find routes that lead to the Garway Hill summit, or explore the prominent Skirrid Fawr summit, which is accessible from the broader area and presents a popular hiking challenge.
What are the typical distances and durations for hikes in Rowlstone?
Hikes around Rowlstone vary significantly in distance and duration. You can find shorter routes like the Angel Inn – Grosmont Castle Ruins loop from Grosmont, which is 6.7 km and takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. Longer, more challenging trails, such as the St. Bridget's Church – Garway Hill summit loop from Grosmont, can extend to 23.6 km and take several hours to complete.
Most popular attractions around Rowlstone
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
