REDBROOK
Spectacular scenery and a wealth of birds in the Wye Valley
THE RIVER WYE forms one of the most impressive river systems in Britain and makes for the backbone of this valley walk on the borderlands of England and Wales. This section of the valley to the south of Monmouth, varies widely from wooded and steep-sided, with fast flowing rapids, to sweeping meanders and ox-bow lakes among flood meadows. Water levels in the river can fluctuate enormously following heavy rains that cascade down from the Welsh hills. Inevitably, birds such as Dipper, Kingfisher and Grey Wagtail are the main prizes from the riverside paths, but keep a watchful eye out for a Little Ringed Plover on shingle banks where the river bends below Monmouth. On the open fields, feral geese and swans are common place, while an occasional flock of passing White-fronted Geese are not unknown. Various viewpoints along the way are ideal for scanning surrounding hillsides for displaying birds of prey. While Sparrowhawk, Red Kite and Buzzard are a given, Peregrines often drift down the valley from their breeding site at Symonds Yat. This is also Goshawk country, and early spring is the perfect time of year to glimpse this mighty raptor. Even though some of this walk follows the national Wye Valley footpath, it remains a quiet route. PAUL TRODD