Feefo service rating
close

Call us on 01707 817260

  • Monday - Friday9am - 5pm
  • Saturday9am - 1pm
  • SundayClosed
  • Bank HolidaysClosed
close

Call us on 01707 817260

  • Monday - Friday9am - 5pm
  • Saturday9am - 1pm
  • SundayClosed
  • Bank HolidaysClosed

Exploring the Welsh Marches

Walk amongst the tranquil rolling hills on the mid-Wales border.

  • England

  • 5 nights
  • Half Board
  • Landscape

  • Apr

    Jun

    Jul

  • Average group size: 10-12

Moderate

What does this mean?

What does this mean?

What does this mean?

Close

View Destinations

Close

Walking grade

Grade 5

This is a Grade 5 moderate holiday which includes full day walks covering distances between 9 and 10.5 miles each day, with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent (no more than 500m). Whilst you'll be walking on paths, these may be rough, steep and loose at times. Expect to be out for 6 - 7 hours most days, though that will include your breaks. 

This holiday takes in a variety of sights along the way with some challenging climbs, with rewarding views and some longer days than others. The average mileage covered each day is slightly higher than our usual Grade 5 holiday, however it is fully within grade when you take into account the terrain and the maximum amounts of ascent and descent covered each day. 

See the 'Proposed Itinerary' for more information.

Close

Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Walk the best sections of Offa's Dyke, the Mortimer Trail and other long distance footpaths as they traverse the ridges and valleys of the Marches countryside.
  • Explore the quirky border market town of Kington with it's excellent public houses.
  • Discover spectacular unspoilt and little known hill country.
  • Relax in the stunning Cloud Nine swimming pool & spa at the end of a day's walk.
  • Enjoy the stylish comfort and good quality food at your accommodation.

The mid-England-Wales borderlands, also known as the 'Welsh Marches' is an area of unforgettable and varied natural beauty. Here the hills of Wales meet the lowlands of Herefordshire, true border country, full of valleys, castles and characterful towns and villages with a rich and fascinating history. This is a perfect location for a walking holiday set in ideal walking country for those who prefer a gentler pace and a little more time to explore along the way. 

The quaint town of Kington serves as a convergence point for an array of long distance footpaths. The reason for this lies in the quietly spectacular countryside that envelops it. The natural beauty that surrounds Kington is so striking and diverse that it draws in paths from all directions, creating a nexus for walkers and hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of this region. Together we will explore the surrounding area, making full use of local long distance trails such as Offa’s Dyke, the Mortimer Trail, the Herefordshire Trail and the Arrow Valley trail as they wind their way over ridges and through valleys. 

Your sanctuary for this journey will be the esteemed Burton Hotel, with its expansive and inviting rooms, alongside a renowned restaurant, this hotel truly stands as a hidden gem. The inclusion of a pool and spa adds a touch of opulence to this warm and inviting establishment. We encourage you to take advantage of these complimentary amenities upon your arrival or before your evening meals, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate after your day of exploration. Your well-being and comfort are paramount to us, and we trust the Burton Hotel will provide a haven of relaxation throughout your stay.

  • En suite three-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by public buses
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Lunches
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

71505

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Independent travel to the Burton Hotel in Kington. Check in is from 3pm. 

Meet your tour leader at 7pm in the hotel bar for a briefing before dinner.

Day 2

Rushock Hill & Titley circular

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Distance

    10.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    420m

On your first walk day, you head north out of town to pick up the Mortimer trail, a long-distance path that runs from Ludlow to Kington through land once owned by the powerful Norman family, the Mortimers. 

There will be a climb up onto Rushock Hill, for stunning 360o views across to Herefordshire and the full length of the Black Mountains. Descending, you follow a green lane as it swings round to the village of Titley and then onto the Herefordshire way which follows the River Arrow as it winds its way back into town.

Day 3

Hergest Ridge walk

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Distance

    9.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    350m

Today, head west from Kington on the Offa's Dyke path as it heads over Hergest ridge; a landscape so beautiful that it inspired Mike Oldfield to write the album of the same name in the 1970s. Walk up gradually from Kington, taking in the magnificent views before heading down to the village of Gladestry where there may be time for a quick drink in the local pub, the Royal Oak, before heading back via a lower level route to Kington.  

Day 4

Offa's Dyke - Kington to Prestigne

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Distance

    9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    500m

Today will involve walking one of the most beautiful stretches of the Offa’s Dyke path. Walking directly from the hotel, following the trail north around Rushock and Herrock hills and over Evenjob hill. From here take a route to the lovely border town of Prestigne where there should be time for a cup of tea, or other refreshment before catching the bus back to Kington. 

You will spend much of the day following well preserved sections of the trail (some of the best on the route) and even pass close to one of Owain Glyndwr’s battle sites where he fought the English at the Battle of Pilleth. 

Day 5

Stanner Rocks & Old Radnor

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Distance

    10 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    500m

The far-reaching views on today’s walk across the borders of England and Wales are truly stunning. The figure of eight route has an abundance of varied scenery and takes us past some of the oldest rocks in Wales. 

Head out along the north side of Hergest ridge and then cross the old New Radnor Leominster railway line to pick up a route to the village of Old Radnor. The views from this hilltop village are spectacular and make an excellent lunch stop. From here complete the figure of eight walking route, heading around Hanter hill and then up onto Hergest ridge to return to Kington. 

Day 6

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

Departure after breakfast. Check out is by 11am. 

We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and look forward to welcoming you on another soon.

Departure dates for your selected tour

13th Apr 2025 - 18th Apr 2025 (5 Nights)

1st Jun 2025 - 6th Jun 2025 (5 Nights)

3rd Jul 2025 - 8th Jul 2025 (5 Nights)

Travel Details

All local transport to and from the trailheads, is included.

Ample parking is available at the hotel.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

The Burton Hotel

Set within a modernised coaching inn, the three-star, family owned Burton Hotel is located in the small market town of Kington, Herefordshire, close to the Welsh border. The hotel has been under the ownership of the same family for over 35 years and is being continually modernised. 

The bedrooms within our allocation are 'standard classic rooms' which include en suite facilities, TV, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities. If you would like to stay in an updated, more contemporary styled bedroom, an upgrade may be available at a supplement. 

The hotel offers the Cloud Nine swimming pool and fitness club. Facilities include a gym, spa bath, steam room and sauna; a perfect retreat for a swim and relax after a good day on the trail. 

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

This is a Grade 5 moderate holiday which includes full day walks covering distances between 9 and 10.5 miles each day, with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent (no more than 500m). Whilst you'll be walking on paths, these may be rough, steep and loose at times. Expect to be out for 6 - 7 hours most days, though that will include your breaks. 

This holiday takes in a variety of sights along the way with some challenging climbs, with rewarding views and some longer days than others. The average mileage covered each day is slightly higher than our usual Grade 5 holiday, however it is fully within grade when you take into account the terrain and the maximum amounts of ascent and descent covered each day. 

See the 'Proposed Itinerary' for more information.

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

To reach the hotel…

by car: the hotel can be located on Mill Street, Kington, HR5 3BQ. The hotel has a free of charge car park to use. Depending on your location, it is best to look at your route prior to travelling and we can recommend the below websites to help you plan. 

The What3Words code is - district.cross.transcribes 

by rail: the nearest is Knighton Railway Station which is approximately 12 miles away from the hotel and a 25 minute drive. 

by coach: buses leave Kington hourly for Hereford and every two or three hours to Knighton, where the railway station can be found. 

If travelling by public transport, please look online for a suitable taxi company for travel to the hotel. We recommend that you pre-book as there is no taxi rank at Knighton Railway Station. 

You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the hotel; www.rome2rio.com 

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk 

Meeting your tour leader and fellow walkers: Please check the time of dinner on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the hotel bar lounge at 7pm, before dinner for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Meals

Breakfasts and dinners are taken in the hotel restaurant. Packed lunches are not included but supplies can be purchased locally each day.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Maps, Guidebooks & More

Our intended route is covered by the following maps:

Ordnance Survey Explorer series (1:25,000 scale maps): 201 Knighton and Presteigne

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

Reviews

What customers are saying

View Dates & Book

Choose your preferred departure date

Can't find what you're looking for?

Call for help or regional flights on 01707 817260

View Dates And Book
Feefo service rating
Close