BEST OF BRITISH RIVERS

GORGEOUS SCENERY AND A SUPERB CHOICE OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

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River Wye

Powys, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Monmouthshire

Straddling the border between England and Wales, the 134-mile-long River Wye runs from the Cambrian mountains in mid-Wales to the Severn Estuary at Chepstow.

It has become hugely popular with canoers and kayakers, who gravitate to Ross-on-Wye, Symonds Yat and Monmouth for water-based adventures (monmouthcanoe.co.uk).

Hikers will delight in the Wye Valley Walk, which follows the river for 136 miles, and there are plenty of historic sites to explore, including Hereford Cathedral and Tintern Abbey. Keep an eye out for riverside birds.

Where to stay

Dark Orchard If you're happy to go off-grid, this CL is only a few minutes' walk from Hay-on-Wye. What it lacks in facilities, it makes up for in wildlife, with otters regularly spotted.

caravanclub.co.uk

Broadmeadow Touring Park Not far from the Forest of Dean, this scenic site has large hardstanding and grass pitches, modern facilities blocks, and two beautiful lakes in the grounds.

avon-estates.co.uk/broadmeadow

River Severn

Shropshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire

Stretching for 220 miles, the Severn is the longest river in Great Britain, so it’s not surprising that there is an abundance of things to do and see along its course.

Take a leisurely cruise from Stourport (riverboathire.co.uk/public-day-trips) or hire a boat. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are available (riverseverncanoes.co.uk), with experienced paddlers enjoying the challenge of the Severn Bore tidal surge.