Just a short drive from Burhope Farm Campsite lies one of Britain’s most celebrated waterways – the River Wye. This magnificent river, winding through stunning countryside and dramatic gorges, offers visitors the perfect setting for unforgettable water-based adventures.
Canoeing and Kayaking
The River Wye is renowned as one of the UK’s premier destinations for canoeing and kayaking, suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The gentle flow and relatively shallow waters make it an ideal environment to develop your skills or simply enjoy a leisurely journey through breathtaking scenery.
Several excellent hire companies operate near Burhope Farm Campsite, including Ross on Wye Canoe Hire Company, Wye Canoes, and Wye Valley Canoe Hire. These established outfitters provide everything you need for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water – from boats and paddles to buoyancy aids and waterproof containers. Many offer shuttle services, allowing you to paddle one-way downstream without worrying about transportation logistics.
Popular routes include the stretch from Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat, where paddlers can marvel at the limestone cliffs rising dramatically from the water’s edge. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the riverside residents – kingfishers flash by in electric blue, herons stalk the shallows, and if you’re particularly fortunate, you might spot an otter or even a peregrine falcon nesting in the cliffs above.
Fishing
For those who prefer a more tranquil water experience, fishing on the River Wye offers peaceful communion with nature and the chance to catch some impressive specimens. The river is famous for its salmon, though you’ll also find barbel, chub, pike, and trout in its waters. Day tickets are available for various stretches of the river, with local tackle shops providing advice on the best spots and bait for the season.
Of course, you don’t even need to leave Burhope Farm to enjoy fishing, as the campsite boasts its own well-stocked lake. For a modest fee, guests can spend a day angling in this tranquil setting, perhaps catching dinner to cook on the barbecue back at your pitch.
Wild Swimming
On warmer days, the River Wye offers inviting spots for wild swimming. The river has several natural beaches and gentle shallows that provide safe entry points. Always check local advice on currents and water quality before swimming, and never swim alone.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of navigating rapids, the serenity of drifting downstream beneath overhanging trees, or the anticipation of a fish on the line, the River Wye provides water lovers with endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. After a day on or by the water, Burhope Farm Campsite offers the perfect retreat to unwind and plan tomorrow’s aquatic exploration of this magnificent river valley.