John Kyrle Circular Walk

This historical circular walk explores the Herefordshire town of Ross on Wye.
You'll follow in the footsteps of John Kyrle, a 17th century philanthropist known as 'The Man of Ross'.
Starting from the parking area near the river at Wilton Road, the waymarked trail explores the local landscape he helped beautify. 
You begin with a pleasant riverside stretch along the River Wye.... As the path progresses, it bends left and rises onto a track high above on a sandstone cliff, offering expansive views of the surrounding Herefordshire countryside. The route eventually leads into the leafy suburbs and back towards the town centre, passing through the grounds of St Mary’s Church and The Prospect, a public garden laid out by Kyrle in 1700 that features an ornamental gateway and a famous viewpoint. There's some excellent views of the River Wye and plenty of benches where you can rest for a while.
In the heart of the town, the walk takes you past the Market House and John Kyrle's former timber-framed home. Before returning to the start, the trail descends back to the river via Wye Street, passing local landmarks like the Man of Ross pub and the site of an old water engine that once pumped river water up to the Prospect's fountain. The terrain is a mix of suburban streets, woodland, and riverside paths, including several flights of steps and kissing gates, but no stiles.
You can continue your walking in the area on the popular Ross Round Walk.

Ordnance Survey Map OpenStreetMap OS Map (Mobile GPS) OpenStreetMap (Mobile GPS)

Interactive Map

Route Video

Nearby Routes

Ross Round

Photos

Market Place, Ross-on-Wye. Ross was granted the right to hold a market in 1138 by King Stephen. The red sandstone Market Hall was built in the 17th century and stands next to one of Ross's few Tudor buildings, once the home of local benefactor, John Kyrle.

Waymarker symbol.

The Man of Ross. A pub on the corner of Wye Street and Edde Cross Street commemorating local philanthropist and benefactor, John Kyrle (1637 - 1724).

View from The Prospect. This is the view of the River Wye Valley from the elevated prospect gardens.

Download GPX

John Kyrle Circular Walk.gpx