Ross-on-Wye

Ross-on-Wye, town in southern Herefordshire, western England. A historic market town, its name comes from the Welsh for “promontory” (“on-Wye” was added in 1931). Situated on a sandstone cliff in the fertile and scenic Wye Valley, it is a thriving agricultural and trade centre; tourism also plays an important part in the town’s economy. Places of interest include a pillared Market Hall of about 1670, the parish church of St Mary, and numerous half-timbered Tudor houses.

Ross was mentioned in the Domesday Book, and in the 12th century received a market charter. It then developed as an important trade centre for the surrounding region and beyond, especially after 1855 when it became linked by the railway to other parts of the country. A new phase of urban development took place in the second half of the 19th century. Markets are still held there twice a week, and an international music and drama festival takes place each year in August. Population 9,606 (1991).