Reader's Digest UK

My Britain: Wye Valley

STRADDLING THE BORDER between England and Wales sits the Wye Valley, an area known for limestone gorge scenery, dense native woodlands, and, of course, the winding River Wye.

The valley has been inhabited for at least 12,000 years, with caves near Symonds Yat and Chepstow bearing evidence of human settlement dating back to Palaeolithic times. Closely following the River Wye is Offa’s Dyke, the longest archaeological monument in Britain. It was built in the eighth century by King Offa to mark the boundary between England and Wales.

As well as its lovely people, the Wye Valley is home to rich wildlife habitats, with peregrine falcons and nightjars roaming the skies while shad and twaite swim in its waters. Three sites in the area are of international importance,

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