ACTIVITIES NEARBY
Portland House is situated close to the River Wye with easy access to the Forest of Dean where you can enjoy activities whatever your interest. From beautiful scenery to the thrills of mountain biking, a tranquil paddle on the river, fishing or why not explore the countryside from Dean Valley Railway. For the young at heart there are many adventure playgrounds including Go Ape and for those of you with a tipple in mind, why not explore the vineyards, distilleries and cider producers.
FISHING
The River Wye is where you can access some of the best fishing available in the UK. The river has nearly everything a river angler could want – salmon, trout, grayling, barbel, chub, big pike and an array of other coarse species in addition to, of course, spectacular scenery along one of the most famous valleys in the UK.
For up to date information on how the river's fishing, access to day tickets and season permits see links below:
Ross-on-Wye Tourism Association
At Portland House we can offer secure outdoor space to store your tackle, along with a wet room where gear can be cleaned and/or hung out to dry.
CYCLING
There are plenty of cycle routes in the Forest of Dean & the Wye Valley and the area welcomes riders of every type with open arms. The trails will take you through oak and beech forests, lead you over open tracks and into conifer plantations. Low hills provide short climbs but, more importantly, exciting descents that you can keep enjoying all day long.
Riding around the Forest of Dean will bring you within reach of the region’s glorious nature too. From a variety of beautiful plants to its population of deer, wild boar and even glow worms, there’s much to see as you spin the pedals.
Cycling and mountain biking trails at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre
With a Family Cycle Trail, blue and red graded cross-country trails and a number of more advanced downhill trails, the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre has something for everyone, see link below:
BIKE hire in the area
PADDLE THE RIVER
The River Wye is ideal for those who would like to take to the water.
A range of activities are locally available, from paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, or just enjoying a guided river cruise, there is something for everyone.
Seeing wildlife from the River Wye at Symonds Yat is a great way to get even closer to nature.
For information regarding canoe hire etc see below:
Portland House has storage for canoes and kayaks (please contact us in advance) alongside facilities to dry wet clothing/items.
EVEN MORE.......
For those who like to experience something different, there are many options for individuals and families alike, from tree-top adventures, climbing & abseiling to caves, railways and the magical mystical Puzzlewood. To find out more see links below:
Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail
Ross-on-Wye Cider & Perry Company