Eat Sleep Live Herefordshire
Westonbury Mill Water Gardens is beautiful and fun Garden and follies Westonbury Mill Water Gardens are set in the wonderful wild heart of Herefordshire close to the ‘black-and-white’ village of Pembridge. About half of its 3½ acres is filled with massed planting of vividly colourful moisture-lovers laid out around a tangle of streams and ponds, partly shaded by a backdrop of mature trees. Punctuating the garden are a number of fantastic follies, often featured on national television, which will fascinate and entertain you. Walking amongst the garden’s exuberant growth, you will find that it opens up slowly and provides new interest around each corner. There are lots of benches where you can relax for a long view. The other half of the garden is a wild flower meadow where you can walk alongside the Curl Brook among banks of shrubs and young trees, or climb the spiral path of the great mound in the middle of the meadow and enjoy splendid views of the garden, neighbouring farmland and distant hills. Cafe: There is an excellent cafe for coffee, lunches and teas Plant nursery: There is a wide selection of plants from the garden Information Open: every day from 1st April […]
Beautiful medieval Ludlow Castle, set in the glorious Shropshire countryside Ludlow Castle is one of the finest medieval ruins in England. Set in the glorious Shropshire countryside at the heart of the superb, bustling black & white market town of Ludlow. Walk through the Castle grounds and see the ancient houses of kings, queens, princes, judges and the nobility – a glimpse into the lifestyle of medieval society. The Castle, firstly a Norman Fortress and extended over the centuries to become a fortified Royal Palace, has ensured Ludlow’s place in English history – originally built to hold back unconquered Welsh, passing through generations of the de Lacy and Mortimer families to Richard Plantagenet, Duke of York. It became Crown property in 1461 and remained a royal castle for the next 350 years, during which time the Council of the Marches was formed with responsibility for the Government of Wales and the border counties. Abandoned in 1689 the castle quickly fell into ruin, described as ‘the very perfection of decay’ by Daniel Defoe Since 1811 the castle has been owned by the Earls of Powis, who have arrested further decline, and allowed this magnificent historical monument to be open to the […]
Herefordshire Wildlife Trust works across the county, looking after its wonderful landscapes and wildlife – and inspiring others to do the same! The trust manage 59 nature reserves which range from the tiny – perfect pockets of meadow and woodland – to the expansive, such as the popular Queenswood Country Park. Touring the nature reserves is a fantastic way to discover the heart of Herefordshire as the trust conserve some of the best examples of the county’s orchards, meadows, riversides, woodland and lakes. Undertaking projects across Herefordshire with partner organisations, landowners and local communities to ensure maintainance of Living Landscapes where wildlife and people can thrive. Most recently work includes restoring a network of ponds across Bromyard Downs, Bringsty Common and National Trust Brockhampton estate as part of the Pooling Together project while along the Lower Lugg Valley, the trust have protected the river banks to improve the water quality and wildlife habitat for the future. Herefordshire Wildlife Trust run events, activities and courses throughout the year and across the county, for all ages. Why not join the WildPlay team for a morning of den making and outdoor cooking, enjoy a guided tour of the reserves with knowledgeable reserve officers or sign up […]
Let the Hereford Guild of Guides take you around the historic city of Hereford Guided Walks in the historic city of Hereford will run from September 1 until October 31 2020. Hereford Guild of Guides look forward to welcoming you on a GUIDED WALK around Hereford, at 11.30 daily, except on Sundays at 14.30. You will visit the site of the medieval castle and see Hereford’s interesting and historic buildings and other structures, hear about the history of the city through the ages from Saxon times, its role in the Civil War and its famous people and learn about Dan the dog! Tickets from the Cathedral Shop (from the Guide on Sundays) £5 for adults and £1 for accompanied children aged 6-12. Walks are limited to a maximum of 6 people to allow for social distancing. Meet your Guide outside the main entrance to the Cathedral. There is no need to book in advance but you will need to purchase a ticket from the Cathedral shop prior to joining the walk (or from the guide on Sundays if the shop is closed) – the charge is £5 per adult, £1 for accompanied children aged 6 – 12. Please note that we can only allow […]
Hereford Museum is full of interesting local history with hands-on elements for all the family including a children’s Victorian kitchen and puppet theatre. Some of the most popular displays are a live bee hive, a two metre long sturgeon fish, and fascinating archaeology & fossils. The Art Gallery hosts regularly changing exhibitions of contemporary and historic art and objects. The Brian Hatton Gallery displays art works by local artist Brian Hatton, killed in the First World War. Hereford Museum and Art Gallery will be open the following hours in 2020, in partnership with the library service (opening times may vary at short notice) Tuesday and Wednesday 1-4pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10-1pm Half term extended opening Hours: Tuesday 27th October Open 10-4pm Wednesday 28th October Open 10-4pm The Museum and Art Gallery will be closed from the 1st December 2020 – 22nd January 2021 Numbers are restricted at any one time so if the library is full please return another day as there is no queuing system. Entry is free but donations are appreciated Toilets, wheelchair access via lift, tactile images and braille guides. Website Also see The Black White House Museum
Standing proud and strong, this fine Georgian mansion sits within Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown’s final garden and landscape. This year, we’re embarking on our ambitious Garden Project. This aims to restore, revive and reimagine ‘Capability’ Brown’s iconic walled garden and pleasure grounds for future generations. We’re working in partnership with local community groups to ensure the vision for the gardens are co-created and beneficial for the local community. We need to raise £200,000 to repair the garden walls, including the rare curved section, which is one of only two left surviving in this style. From July 2019, you’ll be able to step inside and explore this area for the first time. Find out how you can support the project on your next visit and ask the team about the various fundraising events and gardening workshops we have planned for the coming year. In the centre of the walled garden, you can discover ‘LOOK! LOOK! LOOK!’, a bold contemporary pavilion designed by internationally renowned artists, Heather and Ivan Morison. Inspired by Berrington’s Georgian origins and eighteenth-century culture, this 8-metre-tall by 8-metre-wide pink structure inhabits the walled garden; highlighting the importance of this piece of ‘living history’ as the final masterpiece of ‘Capability’ […]
If you are out and about in the Kington area and need friendly and helpful advice on where to go, what to do and where to stay, then the Kington Tourist Information Centre is your one stop shop. Manned by an enthusiastic group of volunteers belonging to the Kington Tourist Group and providing information on Kington and the surrounding countryside you’re sure to find what you need. The Centre is staffed from Easter to October; during the rest of the year, local information can be found on their website and any enquiry will be answered quickly. Although Kington is on the western side of Offa’s Dyke, it has been an English town for a thousand years; consequently there is much to discover and lots to explore in this beautiful rural town. Office open: Sat 6th April – Sat 2nd November 2019 10am-4.30pm Mon-Sat closing 4pm during Oct/Nov
Brobury House Garden is open every day, all year round. Set on the banks of The River Wye, the gardens offer an idyllic setting for this Victorian style terraced garden. The panoramic views of the surrounding Herefordshire countryside really complement the formal gardens. The magnificent trees give structure to the garden and showcase the original design providing a focal point for the gardens. The present owners, Keith and Pru Cartwright have been at Brobury since 2001 and have embarked on a programme of restoration and development in conjunction with their garden designer Peter Antonius. It is a garden for all seasons. whether you visit for the first flush of Spring blossom or the spectacular late Autumn blaze…and beyond into the pale light of Winter, there is always interest and beauty. There are three formal water features which have been intertwined into the original terraces – a bog garden has now been established at the bottom of the specimen tree walk and from this paths follow a stream through woodland, leading finally to the two acre water-meadow beyond. The most recent water feature is a Lutyens-inspired pool with steps and an ornamental arrangement of flower beds. Opening times: The gardens are […]
UPDATE: Open with social distancing measures in place. Newent Plant Centre is Hereford’s most inspirational plant centre where you will find creative displays all laid out to inspire you with planting ideas for your garden. Customers can be heard commenting on how gorgeous and effective this looks and many say what a delight it is to see somewhere that sets the plants out in a different fashion. More importantly they also say it’s great to see what plants will look like together once planted in the garden. These areas are changing constantly to reflect the plants being sold and to give different ideas each time you visit. At Newent Plant Centre there is a large stock of beautiful, well-kept and healthy plants. What sets us apart from many garden centres is the fact that we care – passionately – about the plants we stock. We know about them. We are very happy to talk about them, in fact we can talk all day about them. So pop along for a visit and take a little time out to relax and breathe in the wonderful displays. Open 7 days a week. RHS Gold Medalists.
UPDATE: Gardens and plant sales open, cafe closed. Hergest Croft Gardens lies in the heart of the Welsh Marches with stunning views towards the Black Mountains. From spring bulbs to autumn colour this is a garden for all seasons. There are gorgeous flower borders. An old fashioned Kitchen Garden with a Rose Garden; Spring Borders with carpets of bulbs; and unusual vegetables; the Azalea Garden with spectacular colour in the spring: and Park Wood, with thirty foot high rhododendrons are fantastic all to discover. Autumn colour throughout the gardens is superb The Gardens are the perfect place to explore and relax. Teas and light lunches, provided by the award-winning Ridgeway Catering, specialising in local homemade food, are available in the old Dining Room and outside on the Terrace. Plants Sales contains many rare and unusual specimens from all over the world. A wide range of gifts are presented in the Hall. There are special entry rates for pre-booked groups of 20 or more.
Home of the Mappa Mundi Hereford Cathedral is built on a place of worship used since Saxon times. It contains some of the finest examples of art and architecture from Norman times to the present day, including the famous Mappa Mundi, the medieval Chained Library and the Hereford Magna Carta. Hereford’s elegantly restored Cathedral Close sits at the heart of our historic city and diocese, with new social spaces, artworks and interpretation for you to enjoy. From Monday 27 July, the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library Exhibition will be reopening for visitors with a brand new exhibition, The Two Thomases. Further details here Mappa Mundi The Mappa Mundi is a unique medieval treasure, recording how scholars interpreted the world over 700 years ago. More than a thousand drawings and inscriptions show cities and towns, Biblical events, plants, animals, birds, strange creatures and monstrous races. The map bears the name of its author ‘Richard of Haldingham or Lafford’ (Holdingham and Sleaford in Lincolnshire). Recent research suggests a date of about 1300 for the creation of the map. Mappa Mundi is drawn on a single sheet of vellum (calf skin) measuring 64″ by 52″ (1.58 x 1.33 metres), tapering towards the […]
The Craft Gallery at Old Mayors Parlour offers a first-floor space for the use of artists, artisans, and art-related exhibitors; enabling contemporary artists to present 2-D and 3-D work in a 14th Century building. Old Mayor’s Parlour is located at 23 Church Street, above John McKellar Designer Jewellery, the Independent Quarter in Hereford City. The first floor gallery at the historic and listed Old Mayor’s Parlour building has undergone sympathetic internal and external refurbishment with the involvement of English Heritage. It’s a glorious timber-framed building dating back to the early fourteenth century. It once belonged to and was used by the Custos Rotulorum, the keeper of the rolls, (county’s records) and the Vicars Choral (the men of the Cathedral Choir). Created in 1605 the rare and highly decorated plaster ceiling shows the first version of the Herefordshire coat of arms, as well as, cherubim, oak leaves, acorns, and a fresco of what is believed to be Hereford Castle. Castle Green is located nearby where the remains are thought to be hidden under the grass. Thus the venue is of interest to residents and visitors to the City who are art buyers and collectors, gallery browsers, history buffs or those just […]
FURTHER UPDATE – Deer Park Campsite open on Saturday 4th July until 23rd August, then again from 6th to 30th September. AN UPDATE ON OUR OPENING… It’s so lovely to be open again that we’ve added extra days!* Open every Saturday, Sunday and Monday until Monday 13th July. For anyone home-schooling, we’ve also put together a page pointing to lots of learning resources around Castles! With the recent news that the majority of children are unlikely to go back to school until September, an Outdoor Learning Day at Eastnor visiting a real-life castle might be a welcome change of scenery! We hope to see you soon, don’t forget tickets are limited and must be pre-booked online! Adults: £5.00 Children (3–15yrs): £2.50 *Opening is still on a Limited Grounds Only basis – full information available on our website, please read before purchasing tickets. Eastnor Castle is a great day out for the whole family! Open to visitors on selected days from Easter until the end of September, there is plenty to entertain and amuse visitors of all ages, including dogs who are most welcome. Visitors can explore the state rooms within Eastnor Castle where guides are on hand in every room to […]
Update: the museum is closed until at least October 2020 CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS RISK, PLEASE READ THEIR FULL STATEMENT HERE. The Waterworks Museum – Hereford is a brilliant day out for the whole family as well as the engineering and history enthusiast. Suitable for all ages, this Museum is open one day a week – on a Tuesday between 11am and 4pm, and on 20 in-steam family days each year (Sundays and bank holidays). The Museum Charting the heritage of Herefordshire’s water supply, the Waterworks Museum – Hereford houses a unique collection of working industrial artifacts concerned with the supply of potable water, all in the authentic surroundings of a Victorian waterworks building and grounds. It might not be obvious, but the museum is a time-capsule of social history and the public health development in Herefordshire and beyond. The Museum has possibly the widest chronological range of working water-pumping devices in Britain, with exhibits spanning from 1850 to 2000, whilst authentic working replicas cover some of the earliest water-raising devices of the Greek and Roman periods. The Museum is home to more than thirty working engines of all types. From early beam engines to internal combustion, and everything in between including gas and […]
PLEASE READ THE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE FROM THE NATIONAL TRUST: nationaltrust.org.uk/press-release/the-national-trusts-latest-statement-on-coronavirus-covid-19 Escape to the spectacular Weir Garden riverside and be absorbed by natural beauty. Bordered by the River Wye, The Weir Garden sits within unspoilt Herefordshire countryside and has many historical secrets to uncover. For centuries this site has been used as a pleasure ground for fishing, boating and swimming. It is managed in a natural way to create a varied habitat for wildlife. In spring see carpets of bulbs littered between ancient trees, in summer enjoy a picnic by the river to watch the wildlife and in autumn visit the walled garden bursting with seasonal produce. Visit the garden any time of year to find out why this location has appealed to so many and enjoy exploring this tranquil haven. Please note: only assistance dogs are allowed in the gardens, all other dogs can be exercised in the car park picnic area. For more information about opening times, admission prices and what’s on, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-weir-garden
CLOSED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS RISK, PLEASE SEE STATEMENT BELOW We are sad to say that as of today, the museum will be CLOSED until further notice. We will not be taking any meeting room bookings nor will the shop be open. Stay safe, and we hope to see you in better times. Visit Hereford’s Cider Museum and explore the story of traditional cider making. Learn how the apples were milled and pressed and how the resulting juice was fermented to produce cider. Herefordshire is world famous for its cider and here is a wonderful way to discover its history and the traditions of how it was made, right through to the modern day. A tour of the Museum reveals the history of cidermaking and visitors have the opportunity of walking through original champagne cider cellars and viewing a cooper’s workshop, vat house and cider making memorabilia. View a rare collection of engraved English Lead Crystal cider glasses dating from the 18th century onwards and a collection of 19th century watercolours which were commissioned in 1865 to produce the Herefordshire Pomona – a book illustrating the different varieties of apples and pears grown. Group visits are welcome including school groups and […]
UPDATE: Open from Monday 6th July Tuesday – Sunday 10.00am – 4.00pm (closed Mondays) Magical Aardvark Books is situated in a series of stone barns in Brampton Bryan Brampton Bryan is an historic and beautiful village in the north of Herefordshire on the Shropshire border on the A4113 road between Leintwardine and Knighton. Aardvark Books bookshop contains over 50,000 new and second hand titles across all subject areas, and has a very popular café which serves refreshments, home-made cakes and light lunches. Almost all new books are half-price or less, and the shop includes a fantastic range of books from latest blockbusters to antiquarian gems. There is ample parking for cars and coaches, and the café can seat 40 people comfortably. Throughout the year Aardvark organises a range of events including art exhibitions, a Civil War Re-enactment in conjunction with the English Civil War Society (in August), plus markets and music events. For more details of events have a look on their website. Open 7 Days a Week: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-4pm.
UPDATE: you can now visit Brockhampton without pre booking, keep up to date on their Facebook page. Brockhampton Invites visitors to discover more about key figures from the past At the heart of this 687-hectare (1700-acre) farmed estate lies Lower Brockhampton , a romantic timber-framed manor house dating back to the late 14th century. The house is surrounded by a moat and is entered via a charming timber-framed gatehouse, built 1530-40. There are miles of walks through orchards, park and woodland, featuring ancient trees, historic damson and apple orchards and the picturesque Lawn Pool. Brockhampton is home to a rich variety of wildlife, from rare bugs and beetles in our ancient orchards to a wide range of bird species which you might spot from our wildlife hide. Steeped in history, Brockhampton has witnessed many changes. Inside the manor house, explore 600 years of history and discover the families which have made this special place home. Each room takes you to a different era of history; from the wealthy landowners of medieval times to the Georgian gentleman who lived here before building a mansion house at the top of the hill. More recently the manor house was home to farming families […]
Leominster Tourist Information Centre provides information and advice on places to visit, forthcoming events, public transport and much more. Leominster Tourist Information Centre is situated at the heart of the town at 11 Corn Square. Based within the Leominster Town Council building, it offers a range of services and information to visitors and locals alike. You are welcome to browse their wide range of brochures and leaflets . These include many local attractions, gardens, farm parks, museums and historic houses. For food enthusiasts, there are details of local farm shops, markets, festivals and food, wine and cider producers. The knowledgeable team are on hand to answer any of your queries and give advice and information. Looking for gifts? The Tourist Information Centre sells a great range of local souvenirs, gifts , locally produced jams, preserves, honey and alcohol, craft, local interest books, Ordnance Survey Maps and guides. The Tourist Information Centre is a box office for The Playhouse Cinema and you can purchase tickets for local music and theatre events. They are National Express agents, so you can purchase coach tickets for travel across the UK. Leominster Tourist Information Centre is open Monday to Saturday between the hours of 9.30 […]
The Herefordshire Guild of Craftsmen is a group of skilled artists and craft workers who earn a living by their craft and live or work in and around the beautiful county of Herefordshire. Founded in 1953 to promote craftsmanship within the county, the guild is a non profit making co-operative providing marketing and exhibition opportunities to its members while encouraging networking and social interaction to like-minded professionals. Strength of numbers has allowed access to world renowned events including the RHS Malvern Spring Festival and Three Choirs Festival and members also sell individually through galleries, other events and online.
The jewel in the crown of Herefordshire homes Hellens Manor still serves as a residence but is also open to the public, administered by the Pennington-Mellor-Munthe Charity Trust, and hosting tour groups as well as cultural events such as lectures, concerts, school field-trips, and literary discussions, forming a key part of the cultural life of Much Marcle. The inside of the manor is impressive with Tudor style architecture and fine delicacies. The manor was originally occupied by French Monks but a short while after in the year of 1096 the manor was granted to the De Balun family who became witnesses of the signing of the Magna Carta. In 1301 Hellens went to Lords Audley, a nephew James who was companion to the Black Prince rented the manor for a pair of silver spurs. Afterwards he then leased the manor to Walter De Helyon who then later gave his name to the house. Over the following centuries the manor passed through several hands including those of Richard Walwyn who became occupier of Hellens Manor in the late 14th century, in the 15th century the wealthy family made many changes to the house. The Audleys and Walwyns held court in the […]
UPDATE: Grounds and cafe open with limited takeaway menu only. Must pre book online. PLEASE READ THE CORONAVIRUS UPDATE FROM THE NATIONAL TRUST: nationaltrust.org.uk/press-release/the-national-trusts-latest-statement-on-coronavirus-covid-19 Croft Castle sits deep in the heart of Herefordshire countryside surrounded by 1500 acres of historic woodland, farm and parkland. This intimate house became the Croft family home before the Domesday Book. 2019 marks 75 years since D-Day and 80 years since the start of the Second World War. To commemorate these significant anniversaries, we’re sharing the stories of the Croft family from 1939-45. Families can step back in time and discover what life was like at Croft when it was a school for evacuated children during the war, with dressing up and games in the Family Room. In the castle you can live life as Sir James Croft and find out how the family bought back their home in 1923. Explore the family photographs or sit and read through the auction catalogues. Look out for the 1950s photographs and memorabilia which detail how Croft was at risk of demolition before 1957 and what it was like here then. Step outside and explore the working walled garden complete with historic orchards, vineyard and 1908 glasshouse. Find […]
Discover award-winning ciders at Westons Cider Mill Westons Cider Mill has been lovingly produced in the Herefordshire village of Much Marcle for nearly 140 years and is still independently owned by the same family. Find out how the cider magic happens with a tour and tutored tasting experience. Enter the courtyard and converted farm buildings and you’ll find the Scrumpy House Restaurant, Orchard Tea Rooms and Cider Shop; the place to begin a tour. See inside the award-winning mill and gain a unique insight into the craft of cider making with an expert guide. Tours run daily at 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm and can be tailored to suit any party size. Learn about the history of this 5th generation business and see inside one of the industries’ largest oak vat houses. Finish off with a cider tasting and browse the variety of delicious ciders on offer. Enjoy dining in the Scrumpy House Restaurant, situated in a former cattle shed that offers plenty of rustic charm with a true taste of Herefordshire. To book a table or make an enquiry please call 01531 660626. There is also the Orchard Tearoom serving hot and cold drinks and plenty of picnic options […]
The Black and White House Museum is a 17th Century timber-framed building The Black and White House Museum is a newly re-opened and refurbished magnificent Jacobean half-timbered building in the heart of Hereford City, furnished in period style. Built in 1621 and home in the past to butchers, saddlers and bankers. Explore the rooms which give a glimpse into daily life in the 17th Century. Including fashion, dining and bedrooms. Learn about the city during the Civil War. Hands on activities for children and families. For those unable to climb the stairs, a virtual tour is situated on the fully-accessible ground floor. There are also Braille and tactile images for the blind and visually impaired. Note parking is available close by. Take a look at the council car parks page. There are public toilet facilities nearby, but not on site. Opening Hours for 2020 (open hours may vary at short notice) Tuesday – Saturday 10-4 Sunday – 12-3 Open Monday 26th October 10-12 and 1-4 Closed for lunch 12-1 on the following dates: 20th, 21st, 22nd, 26th and 27th October Admission Charges Adults – £3 Children – £2 (under 5s free) Family ticket – £9.50 (2 adults and up to 3 children) Access to ground […]
One of England’s best kept secrets, Hampton Court Castle is genuinely one of the most romantic houses in England The forerunner to the internationally renowned Hampton Court Palace in Surrey by some 80 years. Situated in the very heart of the Herefordshire, English countryside, the 15th Century Grade One Listed Castle is set in over 1000 acres of estate. The tastefully-appointed State Rooms, including the magnificent Ballroom and exquisitely hand-painted Chapel, are now open to the public for tours. The Castle also boasts 24 sumptuous bedrooms, with feature bathrooms, four of which can be viewed on our Castle tours. The original Victorian Walled Garden now contains breathtaking displays of flower beds, ornamental walkways, waterways, fountains, island pavilions, and cascades. The legendary wisteria tunnel is said to be almost 200 years old and leads to the Castle lawns and beyond to the secret garden and waterfall. Over a thousand yew trees have been planted to create a maze with a gothic tower at its centre offering panoramic views of the gardens. The ornamental kitchen garden includes fruits & vegetables all organically managed. Lunch or afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the Joseph Paxton designed Orangery Café where produce from the kitchen […]
