We’re still buzzing from the success of a recent PR visit we organised in the stunning Wye Valley – a project that has now blossomed into a 10-page feature in National Geographic UK. With words by the award-winning travel writer Ben Lerwill and breathtaking photography by Greg Funnell, the piece shines a national spotlight on one of Britain’s most beautiful and historic landscapes. It’s a really evocative and inspiring read:
‘The river-veined valley that bills itself as the birthplace of British tourism is an ageless scene. The Wye’s simple pleasures – chattering birdlife, slow-moving boats and walking trails weaving through steep, squirrelly beechwoods to views of the castle-studded Welsh borders – have long had the power to seduce, inspiring authors, artists and even a poetic tribute from Wordsworth.’
Curating the experience
Our aim was simple: to give Ben and Greg a true sense of what makes the Wye Valley so special. We crafted an itinerary that combined nature, history and adventure, making sure every element reflected the richness of the region.
On their visit they took in many of the highlights of the Wye: canoeing down the river with Wye Canoes Ltd, visiting Tintern Abbey and climbing to the Devil’s Pulpit on the Offa’s Dyke Path to look out over it and the river below. They visited Symonds Yat and The Saracen’s Head Inn, got up ridiculously early for a dawn chorus bird walk with Ed Drewitt, naturalist and wildlife detective, explored the history of the Wye Tour at Chepstow Museum, stayed at historic (and haunted) The King’s Head Hotel in Ross-on-Wye and had one of the best meals they’ve ever eaten at The Whitebrook. Sounds like a perfect weekend to us!
Behind the scenes
As with any press trip, careful planning was key. From local guides and accommodation to ensuring the timing of experiences matched the best light for photography, every detail mattered. The collaboration with local partners ensured Ben and Greg experienced authentic encounters, delicious regional food and the welcoming spirit of the valley’s communities. I even had to organise collection and delivery of hardhats for their visit to Tintern Abbey so they could access the innermost parts which were closed off for renovations during their visit!
The result: A national showcase
The resulting feature captures both the grandeur and intimacy of the Wye Valley. Ben’s words paint a vivid picture of a landscape that has inspired poets and artists for centuries, while Greg’s photographs bring the story to life with sweeping views, atmospheric details and portraits that ground the story in its people and places.
Why it matters
Coverage of this calibre is invaluable – not just for the Wye Valley, but for the wider region’s tourism economy. A feature in National Geographic UK introduces the area to new audiences, inspires future visitors and underscores the area’s status as one of the UK’s must-see destinations.
We’re proud to have played a part in making this happen and to see the Wye Valley celebrated on such a prestigious platform.
Read the article at: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/discovering-uk-wye-valley-riverside-routes-market-towns