Best things to do in Ross-on-Wye

With a history so deep that precise details about who built it are unknown, Goodrich Castle offers more than just a view of the River Wye and its valley. Take a mental trip into the day-to-day lives of the castle’s former peasants by checking out the domestic buildings, a well-preserved, nearly complete set. This castle was a mighty force to be reckoned with in the English Civil War; the “Roaring Meg” mortar was built for the express purpose of bringing it down. See the cannon itself and the cannon balls that did the job on site, then take the free audio tour to hear the whole story of the siege.

A filming location for three Harry Potter films, Gloucester Cathedral is also one of England's most attractive cathedrals. Its foundation dates back to the establishment of an abbey here in the seventh century. Today you'll find a fine example of Gothic architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about the cathedral's intricate details, such as the Norman roof from the Early English period and the medieval glass in the east window. For views over the whole complex and out into Gloucester, walk the 269 steps to the top of the tower. The cathedral's renowned choir performs regularly, so check its schedule to hear a concert. You can also attend a religious service here.

A former Benedictine monastery with the largest Romanesque crossing tower in all of Europe, Tewkesbury Abbey is the second largest parish church in the country. Of the church’s three spectacular organs, the most notable is the Milton Organ installed in the 18th century, while the most practical is the Elliot chamber organ of 1812, mounted on a movable platform. Attend a morning service to listen to the acoustics and enjoy a parish breakfast following the ceremony. Photography is restricted in the abbey.

Explore the underground world of a working coal mine at Big Pit National Coal Museum, dedicated to operational preservation of the Welsh coal-mining heritage. This is no ordinary "theme park" tourist attraction, and the pit props and steel bands are not for show, but for holding up the mine’s roof. The water flowing down the tunnels toward the cages is real, apart from the fact that, unlike a century ago when it splashed all over the miners’ feet, it now flows down purpose-built channels. Safety measures are strictly enforced and explained to visitors before each tour. Automatic gas monitoring systems are discreetly positioned around the tunnels, as are emergency telephones. Special talks and exhibitions are also regularly hosted by the museum.

Lions, rhinos, giraffes, and a variety of exotic animals roam the 81 hectares (200 acres) expanse of verdant land that make up West Midland Safari Park. Opened to the public in 1973, the facility allows you to drive your own car through the park. It also provides guided tours by minibus, so you can get up close to the many animals at home here.

Tour Gloucester Docks to examine the historical shipping industry of southwest England. Situated on the Severn River, the still-functioning Victorian port houses several museums and exhibits for the whole family. Spend the afternoon touring the dock’s machinery and warehouses while learning the importance of the industry to the surrounding area. End the afternoon with a visit to the model boat display, or a tour of the port’s brewery. Take a leisure cruise up the river to see the expansive canal and more of the Gloucester area.

Tour centuries of English history in an original setting at Chavenage House, an Elizabethan period manor. Made of Cotswold stone and a tiled roof, the house features two ornate tapestry rooms, tall stained glass windows, and extensive paneling with English Civil War and Edwardian sections. Take the two-hour tour given by a member of the owning family, who will share numerous anecdotes, including the royalist legend of Chavenage, a curse of fatal sickness for acquiescing in the execution of Charles I. This photogenic piece of property with a garden designed by Lancelot "Capability" Brown remains very popular for wedding photos and shooting historical films. For refreshment, head to Tetbury, about 2.4 km (1.5 mi) away.

Enjoy professional treatments, luxurious facilities, and excellent food at Wye Valley Spa, a women-only spa located in the beautiful Wye Valley. Enjoy music or cocktails while soaking in the hot tub. Swim with a view in the salt-water swimming pool. Heat up in the sauna or steam room. Indulge in special treatments such as facials, massages, manicures, and body scrubs. Relax at the cafe, cocktail bar, or bistro. A clubhouse and leisure suite may be booked for private groups.