🗺Walk | Tintern to Chepstow | Route 17 of Wye Valley Walk

Grade: Easy to Moderate in places
Distance: 5.5 miles (9 km) one way, or 11 miles (18 km) circular
Time: 3 hr 30 min (one way) or 7 hr (circular)

Trail information: A walk to Chepstow to explore the Castle and Museum via the Picturesque Piercefield estate along Route 17 of the Wye Valley Walk.

Why you’ll love it

This route is a gentle adventure through some of the Wye Valley’s most celebrated scenery, blending riverside calm with historic drama. You’ll wander wooded ridges, pause at breathtaking viewpoints, and finish at the gates of Chepstow Castle—one of Wales’ most impressive medieval fortresses.

Trail highlights

  • Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint – A sweeping panorama 700 ft (213 m) above the Severn Estuary.

  • 365 Steps – A memorable descent (or climb!) marking the highest point of the Piercefield estate.

  • Piercefield Park – An 18th-century Grade I listed landscape dotted with romantic viewpoints like The Lover’s Leap, The Giant’s Cave, The Grotto, and The Alcove.

  • Chepstow Castle & Museum – Your reward at the end of the trail, steeped in history and perched dramatically above the River Wye.

Route overview

  1. Start at Reddings Retreat and follow the Wye Valley Walk towards Black Cliff, heading away from Tintern.

  2. Continue along the wooded ridge to Wyndcliff Woods.

  3. Pause at Eagle’s Nest for the panoramic view before descending the 365 Steps to Lower Wyndcliff.

  4. Cross the A466 and enter Piercefield Park, exploring its historic viewpoints.

  5. Follow the path into Chepstow, emerging through Castle Dell to the Tourist Information Centre beside the castle.

Trail map & guide

📄 Download the official route map and walking guide (Wye Valley Walk)

Good to know

  • Walking boots recommended—some sections can be steep or uneven.

  • Allow extra time if you plan to explore Chepstow Castle or stop for lunch.

  • For a circular route, return via the Wye Valley Walk or the Chepstow–Tintern Greenway.