Bring your bike and your sense of adventure to Herefordshire’s Golden Valley Pilgrimage Way (GVPW), a stunning 82-mile cycling route that combines spirituality, local cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes. Starting at Hereford Cathedral, the endpoint for this unforgettable journey, you’ll find yourself captivated by the beauty and charm of the region.
Created by Rev Simon Lockett, the GVPW offers a shorter alternative to the traditional week-long hiking pilgrimage. Lockett, the mastermind behind the popular “Rolling Rev” campaign, came up with the idea during lockdown, ensuring that time-strapped travelers could still experience the magic of the pilgrimage. With a pilgrim passport in hand and a digital map on your phone, you’ll embark on a journey like no other.
Immerse yourself in the local flavors as you make stops at quaint churches along the way. Sample delicious ice cream at Rowlestone Farm, indulge in gourmet coffee and gin at Black Mountain Botanicals and roastery, and savor the Butty Bach ale from the Wye Valley. These culinary delights will keep you fueled and energized as you pedal through picturesque countryside.
The trail takes you through charming villages like Kilpeck, home to a mesmerizing Romanesque church, and Kentchurch, where the legend of Jack o’ Kent comes alive. You’ll also pass a serene deer park, where the majestic antlers rise above the hedges, creating a magical atmosphere. Your day will culminate with a well-deserved dinner at the Temple Bar Inn in Ewyas Harold.
As night falls, you’ll find shelter and solace in the beautiful churches that dot the landscape. St Michael and All Angels Church in Ewyas Harold will become your home for the night, offering a cozy and safe space for you and your little one. Let your child explore the nooks and crannies while you set up camp near the altar, charging your e-bike nearby. The adjacent community hall will provide all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
As you settle in for the night, the stained-glass windows will illuminate your surroundings, casting colorful beams across the church. The absence of curtains allows the setting sun to create a breathtaking display. You might find yourself rearranging sleeping arrangements to fully embrace this ethereal experience.
The next day, with renewed energy, embark on the next leg of your journey. Visit Ty Gwyn Cider, run by former musician Alex Culpin, who compares making cider to making music, highlighting the importance of passion, practice, and patience. Enjoy a taste of his locally sourced, 100% juice cider, a true delicacy.
As you continue your cycling adventure, make sure to take in the landmarks that dot the route. Skirrid Fawr, known as the Devil’s Table, will leave you in awe, while the Black Mountains will captivate you with their atmospheric allure. Stop by Clodock Church and search for St Clydawg’s well, believed to possess mystical powers. Your day will conclude at Dorstone’s St Faith’s Church, where you’ll find tranquility and comfort amid its hidden nooks and crannies.
Be sure to explore nearby attractions, such as the still-being-excavated ruins of Snodhill Castle and the enigmatic Arthur’s Stone, a Neolithic burial chamber. These remnants of the past offer a fascinating glimpse into history.
Continue your journey along the River Wye to Bredwardine, where a savory cream tea at the cafe at Brobury House and Gardens will satisfy your taste buds. Take a refreshing dip in the river to beat the afternoon heat before heading to your final sanctuary, St Mary’s Church in Tyberton. The peace and serenity of this church will provide the perfect end to your adventure-filled day.
Wake up to the sound of raindrops on the church roof and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way back to Hereford. The last 10-mile stretch is a peaceful and reflective experience, allowing you to savor the quiet roads of Madley. It’s the perfect way to complete your journey and reflect on the incredible memories you’ve created.
While the OS map on your phone might not possess the artistic beauty of the Mappa Mundi, it has guided you on an extraordinary family adventure. Visit Hereford provides a full cycling itinerary and information about the sites you’ll encounter along the way. Drovers Cycles in Hay-on-Wye offers e-bike rentals and convenient pick-up and drop-off services at Hereford station. Book a night sanctuary in one of the nine churches via the Abbeydore Deanery, with a suggested donation of £20 per night. Get ready to embark on a journey that blends spirituality, history, and the splendor of Herefordshire’s landscapes.
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