The little village of Goodrich is located close to a bend in the River Wye on the English - Welsh border between the towns of Ross-on-Wye and Symonds Yat. As with many Welsh and English border towns, it was its strategic position, in this case at a crossing point of the River Wye, that initiated both the building of its Castle and later the village. The village offers easy access to the Brecon Beacons National Park, the beautiful Forest of Dean, and the Welsh capital of Cardiff, which is just under an hour away.
Many visitors come to Goodrich to visit the castle. Mostly built circa 1101, from 1326 it was the family seat of the Earl of Shrewsbury until the 16th century when it was taken over by the Earls of Kent. Today the castle's ruins stand on a mount just above the town, a fascinating place for anyone to visit, and the border location ensures that the whole landscape is rich in history and heritage. Other attractions include the Coppett Hill Nature Reserve sits east of Monmouth along the river Wye and stretches over towards Goodrich. Home to a wide array of birds and other wildlife, the nature reserve is well worth a visit. In Whitchurch, just 4 minutes away from Goodrich, children will love the Amazing Hedge Puzzle & Butterfly Zoo, which will keep them amused for hours. Shops in Goodrich include an antique shop, gift shops, and cafes and small restaurants can also be found in the village. But the main attraction for visitors to Goodrich must be its location on the River Wye. There is a wide selection of riverside walks in the immediate area and indeed the celebrated Wye Valley Walk skirts the village. The quality of the salmon fishing on the river Wye is renowned the world over and is loved by fishermen of all persuasions, and the river is appreciated by all including canoeists who can paddle for miles through magnificent scenery. Accommodation can be found in self-catering cottages in the village, whilst more can be found in the incredible Forest of Dean.
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