The Saracens Head Inn

The Saracens Head Inn, Riverside Charm and Historic Character

Tucked deep into the wooded gorge of the Wye Valley, The Saracens Head Inn is one of those rare places that feels suspended in time. Sat snugly against the eastern bank of the River Wye at Symonds Yat, this centuries-old riverside pub is more than just a picturesque watering hole — it’s a gateway to adventure, a spot for slow lunches, and a true slice of local heritage.

Getting There: Part of the Adventure

Half the charm of visiting The Saracens Head Inn is the journey itself. If you’re arriving by car, follow signs to Symonds Yat East and wind your way down the steep, narrow lane to the riverside car park, just a stone’s throw from the pub. Be warned — it can get tight in peak season, so early arrival is wise.

Alternatively, if you're exploring from the west side of the river, you’ll discover one of Symonds Yat’s most whimsical features: the hand-pulled ferry. Operated by rope and manpower, this little boat glides you across the Wye in charmingly old-fashioned style — a memorable way to arrive.

For those keen on stretching their legs, a hike down from Symonds Yat Rock is a rewarding approach. Start at the viewpoint, where you can take in sweeping vistas of the meandering Wye, before descending through woodland trails to the river’s edge.

A History That Runs Deep – and Sometimes Wet

The Saracens Head has stood in some form for over 400 years, and like many riverside properties, it has its share of stories. The inn has faced flooding multiple times over the centuries — the most dramatic being in recent decades, when the River Wye swelled beyond its banks and submerged the lower floor. Inside the pub, you’ll find high-water marks preserved on the wall, a quiet reminder of nature’s power and the building’s resilience.

Food and Drink: Rustic Comfort, Local Flavours

Whether you’re drying off by the log fire in winter or basking on the terrace in summer, the Saracens offers hearty, home-cooked food with a focus on local produce. Expect favourites like steak and Wye Valley ale pie, fish and chips, and seasonal specials. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for, too.

Behind the bar, you’ll find local ales on hand pull, cider from nearby orchards, and a curated wine list. The pub is known for its selection of real ales — perfect after a day of walking or paddling on the river.

The Scenery: Wye Valley Beauty on Full Display

Few pubs can boast a setting like this. Steep forested hills rise on either side of the river, and the water flows past just feet from your pint glass. The outside seating area is right on the water's edge, offering front-row views of kingfishers, canoes, and the occasional heron fishing in the shallows.

At dusk, the light softens over the river, and the reflections of trees and cliffs shimmer on the surface — it’s no exaggeration to call it magical.

Activities Nearby: A Base for Exploration

The Saracens Head is perfectly placed for a day of outdoor adventure. Paddleboarders and canoeists often launch nearby, with rental options available just upstream. Walkers can tackle the Biblins loop, climb up to Symonds Yat Rock, or follow the river toward Monmouth or Ross-on-Wye.

Birdwatchers will want to keep an eye out for peregrine falcons that nest in the cliffs above. And for a slower pace, you can simply sit back and watch the river traffic go by with a drink in hand.

Whether you're in search of a post-hike pint, a riverside Sunday roast, or just a quiet corner of natural beauty, The Saracens Head Inn delivers. It’s not just a pub — it’s a Wye Valley institution, and one well worth the journey.