Explore glorious gardens with the National Trust in Herefordshire Visitors are invited to fill their lungs with fresh air at National Trust places in Herefordshire as summer takes over the gardens. At Berrington Hall, Brockhampton, Croft Castle and The Weir Garden families can take in the sights, smells, sounds and colours of the season throughout walled gardens, orchards, pleasure grounds and riversides. At Berrington Hall, near Leominster, families can make memories this summer as they become one of the first to discover Berrington’s newly opened curved walled garden. This curved garden is Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown’s final masterpiece and one of only two left surviving of its kind. From Saturday 6 July, visitors can discover this secret garden which has been closed for over 120 years. It will be the only one of its kind open to the public and visitors can discover creative horticultural displays which tell the story of the space both as a working kitchen garden and then as a farmyard using sub-tropical plants, vegetables, hay-bale planters and more. There are plenty of activities families can join in with this summer at Berrington, including live music, garden games and children’s trails. Visitors can relax in a deckchair in […]

A Secret garden in Herefordshire unveiled for the first time at Berrington Hall, near Leominster. Ever wanted to see a real-life secret garden? The National Trust has announced it will be opening the door to a rare curved walled garden in Herefordshire which has remained locked for the past 150 years – and it will be the only one in the country open to the public. The conservation charity will be embarking upon an extensive restoration project to revive the unique curved walled garden at Berrington Hall near Leominster, which is now back in its care having been used to house livestock for over a century. The final masterpiece from Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown – Britain’s most famous landscape architect of the 18th century – the curved walled garden will be opened to the public for the first time on Saturday 6 July. Visitors will be able to see first-hand the vital conservation work that is currently underway to revive the iconic garden into a beautiful space for everyone to enjoy. The garden is one of only two ‘Capability’ Brown designed curved walled gardens in the country, and with the other in private ownership, Berrington Hall’s will be the only one […]

CANINE AMBASSADORS WELCOME VISITORS IN NEW SCHEME IN ROSS ON WYE. Ross-on-Wye believes it may be the only small town in Britain to greet visitors and tourists with a group of ambassadors and their pets. The dogs, FIzz, Elli, Bella and Tilly wag their tails in welcome. “The ambassadors are all volunteers and their dogs love people,”says Caroline Utting, chair of the local tourism association. “They wear distinctive purple tabards and tee-shirts and the dogs wear  purple jackets.” The ambassadors base themselves outside the historic 16th century Market House and act as tour guides showing people around the medieval streets, vintage shopping trail and riverside, as well as handing out information leaflets about the town and its colourful history.

Make your half term an adventure with the National Trust in Herefordshire. The National Trust in Herefordshire are inviting families to grab their picnic blankets, pop on their walking boots and have an adventure this May half term. Visitors to Berrington Hall, Brockhampton, Croft Castle and The Weir Garden will have the opportunity to test their exploring skills with new children’s trails to complete, activities to try and walks to discover at each of these places. At Berrington Hall, near Leominster, Monday’s playground stories will be made as families put their navigational exploring skills to the test and head out on the Treasure Island trail. Whilst they’re there, families can learn more about the Berrington Garden Project and uncover how the team is working hard to restore the walled garden and pleasure grounds; the final landscape design of ‘Capability’ Brown. Visitors can also discover the exhibition ‘New Perspectives’ by SHYPP (Supported Housing for Young People Project) and learn about how the young people and Berrington’s team collaborated to create this exhibition. Families can also get creative with LEGO Builders on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June, dress like a Georgian in the mansion, play cricket and croquet on the lawn, […]

Organisers of the Eastnor ChilliFest, held annually at Eastnor Castle near Ledbury, are predicting another sell-out year after seeing that the weather looks set to be dry and warm again. Being held on both Sunday 5th and Monday 6th May, Eastnor ChilliFest is now in its eighth year and celebrates all things chilli, along with music and entertainment for the whole family.  The Castle courtyard transforms into a Chilli market where visitors are able to try and buy delicious products such as chocolate, bread, cake, vodka, cocktails and chutney as well as grow-your-own chilli plants. There are also be a number of specialist hot food suppliers selling authentic Asian curries and other spicy foods.  The outdoor Cookery Demonstration Theatre will see some favourites such as Herefordshire’s Beefy Boys and Felice Tocchini returning from previous years as well as some new, inspirational chefs such as Imran Nathoo, food blogger and MasterChef 2017 Quarterfinalist, taking to the demo stage for the first time.  There is a huge amount going on over the weekend with something to entertain all ages. The Clifton Chilli Club will be back on the Valley Lawn each afternoon with their Chilli Eating Competition which is always popular and […]

The Courtyard is the place to be this spring half term with a great selection of family shows and films all week long offering fun for all of the Family! Film lovers can enjoy some great new releases including the much anticipated remake of Disney classic Dumbo (PG) from Friday 24 May – Saturday 1 June. There will also be a relaxed screening on Tuesday 28 May at 5pm. Relaxed screenings are for everyone, but may particularly benefit those with autism spectrum conditions, learning difficulties or sensory and communication difficulties. Small adjustments are made for relaxed screenings such as informal seating, lighting is left on low throughout the film and a ‘chill out area’ provided for anyone who may need to take a break during the film. Next up, audiences can enjoy Laika stop-motion animation studio’s new release Missing Link (PG) (Tuesday 28 May – Saturday 1 June). This new adventure sees Mr. Link recruiting explorer Sir Lionel Frost to help find his long-lost relatives in the fabled valley of Shangri-La. Along with adventurer Adelina Fortnight, this trio of explorers travel the world to help their new friend. Families can take part in a free, pre-activity to make paper chain […]

Ferrous 2019 – a celebration of the natural world Ferrous2019 will be back from 5th April 2019.  Brought to you by Hereford Business Improvement District and Hereford College of Arts, this year’s festival is packed with exhibitions, talks, film and of course blacksmithing demonstrations and the chance to have a go. Live Forging – Your chance to Have a Go and Save the Bees From 5th – 7th April the huge marquee with seven hot metal forges will be making its return to Hereford’s High Town. This offers another chance for Hereford residents and visitors to the city to watch demonstrations by expert blacksmiths or try their own skills at the anvil. This year’s challenge is to make a beautiful seed marker for your garden or balcony which you will be able to take home with you afterwards. And we are giving you a packet of wildflower seeds to plant and mark with your seed marker – our small contribution to celebrating and supporting the natural environment by attracting bees to these wonderful meadow flowers. If you want to try your hand at the blacksmith’s art, then you can book online now on our website https://www.herefordcitylife.co.uk/have-go-forging-high-town. Each slot costs £12 […]

TeamESL is delighted to be part of Herefordshire’s cultural mission to Brussels European Parliament this week, alongside Hereford College of Arts and other selected local businesses to provide a showcase to Herefordshire. West Midlands Conservative MEP Anthea McIntyre secured the opportunity to showcase the county in the European Parliament offices in the capital city saying, ‘Living and working in this most beautiful of counties, I am excited about sharing it with my colleagues in the European Parliament. With the help of Hereford College of Arts and its talented students, we will be letting them know what an interesting and beautiful place this is to visit, what wonderful produce it has and what great opportunities there are to invest.’ A contemporary and visual theme of cow hide, Ryeland wool and soil was chosen by a steering panel, as a bold and sensory evocation of the county with abstract sculptural forms and film that feature some of the essential materials of Herefordshire’s past, present and future such as the county’s rich red soil, iconic cattle hide, Ryeland wool and sessile oak. The materials used in the exhibition are intended speak to both Herefordshire’s rural and industrial heritage and prospects. Eat Sleep Live […]

ESL is delighted to celebrate the opening of Pensons, the exciting new dining destination situated on the 1200 acre Netherwood Estate, owned by the Darnley family, on the rural Herefordshire/Worcestershire border.   The restaurant venture is a partnership between acclaimed chef Lee Westcott (formerly of the Typing Room) and Peta Darnley, where Lee’s experienced and ambitious team compliments Peta’s design expertise to bring you a stylish yet accessible venue of gastronomy.   ESL visited Pensons following its launch in January and we could immediately see the care and passion that is in every inch of the business. The sympathetic conversion of the derelict 15C farm buildings, with architect Alex Coppock from Communion Design, has entirely rejuvenated, restored and preserved intricate original features, re-using as many of the historic materials as possible. The former manger, used for feeding hay to the cattle, is being reused as a lighting rig, the brick threshing floor has been repaired and beautifully weathered elm and oak boarding reinstated.   The bespoke kitchens, designed to Lee’s requirements, are open to the diners’ view, showcasing the talents of his hand-picked team. The refined menu draws inspiration from produce from around the Netherwood Estate and surrounding countryside, favouring […]

Hereford Cathedral have recently announced their latest Life & Learning programme which features a range of talks, lectures and discussions. Life & Learning is the adult education arm of Hereford Cathedral which works to broaden understanding and debate in theology, social issues and the arts. It offers a wide range of opportunities for study and learning, and for experiencing the Christian faith in many aspects.  Open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation, it aims to be a forum for honesty and engagement. In 2019, the tenth year of the Life & Learning programme, there is a diverse range of subject matter ranging from church records to children’s reactions to sacred spaces. Other highlights include two illustrated talks on twelfth-century French Religious Art led by Peter White (Thursday 21 & 28 February). These talks will look at both the sculpture and stained glass windows of the Romanesque cathedral of Chartres which was destroyed in a devastating fire in 1194. The following month (Thursday 28 March), a celebration of Hereford Diocese’s link with the Lutheran Kirchenkreis of Nuremberg will take place in College Hall. The evening will feature speakers from the Nuremberg Committee who will discuss the many different links between the […]

Juliet Williams of Lowe Farm B&B had a real change of winter scenery on her recent cultural visit to Japan. By request of Green Tourism Ambassador Professor Shinji Aoki, this Pembridge farmer’s wife shone the spotlight on Herefordshire’s excellence in tourism. The Professor, from Tokyo University, discovered Juliet’s business on a research mission to the UK some 20 years ago. He was so impressed that he has been bringing a party, sometimes two, of tourism professionals to meet and learn from her every year since. In 2015 Juliet drafted in the support of ESL’s founder and CEO Heidi Chamberlain-Jones. Heidi has been helping to host the groups’ annual stay, showcasing Herefordshire and how rural tourism businesses survive and thrive. Educating in best commercial practice to support communities as well as individual businesses, customer service and marketing, Juliet and Heidi have made a great team in cementing these international relationships. Read all about the 2018 UK visit here. International teachings from Herefordshire – Juliet’s multi-award-winning business is testimony to her standards of delivery. Recognised as invaluable benefit to the Japanese parties, they recently invited her back for a second visit to tour Japan to impart her knowledge. Taking the bullet train and […]

Wye Valley Brewery are delighted to be announced as the winner of the Water Efficiency Category at the Marches Blue Business Awards. The Herefordshire-based brewery won the award at the annual event, which recognises innovative projects that aim to reduce or eliminate water pollution, improve water quality and cut the use of water within their organisations. Wye Valley Brewery were awarded for the industry-leading technology used during the brewing process, which dramatically reduces water and oil usage.  The makers of Butty Bach and HPA also received recognition for the cleanliness of their waste water, which ultimately flows back into the local environment. Vernon Amor, Managing Director, said: ‘We work hard to consistently reduce our impact on the environment, with 47% of all energy used by the brewery coming from renewable sources. The efficient brewhouse has been designed with efficient cleaning operations meaning a below 4:1 water to beer ratio, far below average for a brewing house of our size. It’s fantastic that the work we do to protect the environment has been recognised and we’re honoured to be named winners of the Water Efficiency Category at the Marches Blue Business Awards.’ It’s not just the March Blue Business Awards that […]

TeamESL was thrilled to be a part of the awards evening for the Hereford Times Food & Drink Awards this week, where we represented Oliver’s Cider, a sponsor of this exciting event. The awards celebrated the outstanding work, creativity, innovation and service across Herefordshire’s the food & drink sector with 11 categories and one special overall winner. We were even more delighted to see so many ESL foodie Members featuring as finalists and winners. Best Butcher of the Year: Ogleby Butchers Finalists: Oakchurch Farm Shop (ESL MEMBERS) Quarry Farm Shop Best Café/Tearoom: De Koffie Pot Finalists: Trumpet Corner Tearooms and Art Gallery (ESL MEMBER) Cafe@all saints Best Dairy Producer: Monkland Cheese Dairy Finalists:  Rowlestone Icecream (ESL MEMBERS) Kelsmore Dairy Best Brewer: Swan Brewery Finalist: Wobbly Brewing Co Best Restaurant/Dining Pub: The Riverside Inn at Aymestrey (ESL MEMBERS) Finalists:  The Beefy Boys (ESL MEMBERS) The Book Shop Best Cider Producer: Celtic Marches Beverages Finalists: Gwatkins Cider Newton Court Cider Community Pub of the Year: The Pandy Inn Finalists: The Temple Bar Inn (ESL MEMBERS) De Koffie Pot Best Independent Food and Drink Retailer: The Green Bean Shop Finalists: Oakchurch Farm Shop (ESL MEMBERS) Mailes Brothers Best Drinks Producer (non cider/ale/beer): Black […]

Looking to wow your friends and family with some very special presents this year? Why not take a look at our Great Christmas Gift Ideas all from local Herefordshire businesses. From amazing experience days to fantastic creative courses and workshops to memorable jewellery and art. Make it a year where you dared to be different. CLASSIC CAR ENTHUSIASTS A very SPECIAL GIFT for any CLASSIC CAR lover, the chance to drive a Morgan Plus 4, Alfa Romeo Spider or a fabulous MGB Roadster. Let them experience the stunning scenery of Herefordshire and the Welsh Marches, the Malvern Hills, Wye Valley or the Cotswolds, from behind the wheel of an iconic classic car. Take to the open road and create some super memories with Orchard Classic Car Hire. Click here for more information CREATIVE COURSES Rug making, painting, drawing, printing, creating textiles, upholstery or the art of perfumery. Fantastic courses that will inspire the creatives in your life. Marianne Ryan Gift vouchers are available for Marianne’s fun and inspiring one day art courses taking place during 2019. Courses are £62.00 Vouchers can be purchased directly from Marianne or via the website E: info@artwithmarianne.co.uk W: www.artwithmarianne.co.uk Lucy Brodie – Huntlands Farm Gift […]

Hereford Cathedral Cloisters awarded National Lottery support It was announced today that Hereford Cathedral has received a confirmed National Lottery grant of £866,700 to fund the Eastern Cloisters Heritage Project. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, the project will repair and conserve the College Cloisters, preventing further disrepair and enabling this tranquil area, which is steeped in history, to be opened up to the public for special events and activities. The Cloisters are a much loved part of Hereford Cathedral which house the music department and administrative offices as well as being used for educational events. The area, although beautiful, is in urgent need of repair to provide better facilities for staff, volunteers and visitors. Renovations planned to take place include the installation of better lighting, essential repairs to the walkways and a modern fire protection system put in place as well as improvements to accessibility. An activity plan will complement the restoration and build on previous successful National Lottery funded projects, providing education and learning for visitors of all ages. Once these repairs have taken place, the cathedral will be able to host more events and activities around the themes of music, community and learning, inspired by […]

SANTA, SPARKLE & THE ENCHANTED KINGDOM If you’re excited about Christmas and all the sparkle and glitz it brings, you’re going to love what Herefordshire has planned to kick start the festive season celebrations. Find out where Herefordshire Christmas Lights 2018 are being switched on from our list below: Saturday 17 November Bromyard Sat, Nov 17 | Lights switch on 5.00pm| Santa’s parade & grotto, children’s fair rides, Bromyard Wind Band & Choral Society & Christmas stalls. More Information Hereford Maylords Shopping Centre Sat, Nov 17 | Lights switch on 5.30pm | Hereford | Maylords Shopping Centre Sat, Nov 17 HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS – ENCHANTED KINGDOM Take a snowy footstep into the Enchanted Kingdom’s brand new Christmas Grotto, Hereford’s best Christmas attraction. After two extremely successful years at Maylord Shopping Centre Hereford, they have very own permanent premises there. In addition to their new Christmas experience, they will be bringing numerous other live, interactive experiences throughout the year. Surround yourself in the magic of one of the world’s most beloved Christmas tales… How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Upon entering the Enchanted Kingdom you will be swept away to Whoville to watch a LIVE performance featuring Cindy-Lou Who and […]

The Crown Inn at Woolhope in Herefordshire has been named the UK’s Best Cider Pub in the John Smith’s Great British Pub Awards. The Herefordshire based local was honoured at a gala ceremony at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel on Thursday 6th September after beating off competition from all over the UK. The judges were particularly impressed with The Crown Inn having won the Morning Advertiser’s Cider Pub of the Year for the last two years running. The pub features more than 36 local ciders and perries, available on bottle and draught, all sourced within 15 miles of its location. The pub also looks to bring together local food and drink and offers a five-course set menu which matches food with wines, ciders and perries. The awards – organised by pub industry bible The Morning Advertiser – celebrate the best in the business across more than 20 different categories, covering everything from the UK’s Best Beer Pub, Best Family Pub and Best Food Pub, to the UK’s overall Pub of the Year award. Prestigious gongs are also given to the UK’s Best Pub Garden, Best Newcomer, Best Live Entertainment, and even the nation’s Best LGBTQ+ drinking hole. Morning Advertiser Editor Ed […]

 LUDLOW FOOD FESTIVAL RETURNS THIS SEPTEMBER WITH A STELLAR LINE UP  Headliners include Wahaca founder Thomasina Miers, Saturday Kitchen regular Brad Carter and multi-award winning food writer Rachel Roddy, Michelin starred chefs and over 180 different food and drink producers  Friday 7 – Sunday 9 September – Ludlow Castle, Shropshire Ludlow Food Festival returns with a bang this September with a superb line-up of special guests alongside a huge range of top quality food and drink producers from across the Welsh Marches. Set in the beautiful ruins of Ludlow’s medieval Castle, Ludlow Food Festival was first established 24 years ago and is the oldest annual food festival in the UK. This year’s line up includes: Wahaca founder Thomasina Miers; gardener Alys Fowler and the London Honey Company’s Steve Benbow; Bristol based-chefs and writers Claire Thomson (5 O’Clock Apron) and Romy Gill MBE (Romy’s Kitchen); Rome based award-winning food writer and author Rachel Roddy; and Observer Food Magazine editor Allan Jenkins. Chefs and food experts from the Marches area include Andy Link from the Riverside Inn at Aymestry – recently awarded Visit England Tourism Pub of the Year – and Karl Martin from the acclaimed Old Downton Lodge. Other confirmed names […]

Hereford College of Arts Fine Art Summer Show 2018 called ‘Common Room’, is an exhibition of artwork by thirteen postgraduate students of the MA Fine Art course and is open in an unusual venue for showing contemporary art. The exhibition showcases diverse multi-disciplinary artistic practice at two pop-up venues in Hereford, in partnership with the Maylord Shopping Centre and Hereford BID and with the kind support of Hereford Cathedral, bringing the students’ work into the heart of the city. See the exhibition at 3 & 7 Gomond Street, Maylord Orchards, Hereford. The title of the exhibition, ‘Common Room’, refers to a shared creative space where the artists come together to swap ideas and make work. This space is now the MA studios at HCA but was once a real-life common room for staff when the building was part of the Royal National College for the Blind and the braille print used on the posters reflects this. When the art students moved in, they discovered a braille sign that remained in place from the room’s previous use and they adopted the title ‘Common Room’ for their shared practice. Artwork shown in the exhibition uses mixed media and interdisciplinary practices – and […]

Brobury House & Gardens win National Garden Award Congratulations to Brobury House & Gardens on winning Horticulture Week Custodian Award. Shortlisted months ago for the prestigious Custodian Award for their magnificent Herefordshire Gardens. The Horticulture Week Custodian Awards were held at Woburn Abbey –  it was announced Brobury House & Gardens were the winners in the Best Gardens or Arboretum category 1-5 staff, against stiff national competition. The Horticulture Week Custodian Awards honour the achievements of professionals that make the UK’s parks and gardens the vital and vibrant places they are today, ensuring those achievements are recognised by the industry’s customers, clients and stakeholders. Management achievement is recognised with categories celebrating outstanding work across all areas of activity including restoration and redevelopment, on-going management and maintenance, partnership working, volunteer and community engagement, and more. Learn more about the awards and winners Why not take visit these wonderful gardens which are open all year round and see for yourself. With the gorgeous Summer we are having the gardens are at their absolute stunning best, so take the family and a bring a picnic, stay awhile and enjoy the views. More about Brobury House.

This year celebrates 60 Years of the Royal Three Counties Show We’ve put together the key events for each decade at the Three Counties Showground 1958-1968 The first show was held at the permanent site of the Three Counties Showground at the foot of the Malvern Hills in 1958. The show was honoured by an attendance by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.  A five-year schedule of works was undertaken including the laying of permanent trackways, installation of water, electricity and other utilities and the building of a permanent office block and council room. 2018 Sixty years on, the site has grown to encompass 298 acres including a range of permanent buildings, a woodland and a lake. 1968 – 1978 In 1968 the show welcomed Her Majesty the Queen. She spent four hours at the show, spending time viewing the livestock and casting a knowledgeable eye over the Corgi class. 2018 The Royal Three Counties Show has welcomed, and continues to welcome, members of the Royal Family.  This year Her Majesty, The Queen has entered two of her own horses into Equine classes. The Three Counties Championship Dog Show has grown in popularity and size to the extent that it now has its […]

John McGuinness and James Whitham are on the road – for a series of up-close-and-personal shows and coming to Hereford at thePoint4. McGuinness, the twenty three time Isle of Man TT winner and Whitham, the former world superbike racer turned TV pundit will be appearing at six venues across the country in October and November this year. The shows are a rip-roaring romp through the wonderful world and sporting achievement of John McGuinness, recent events have received rave reviews. James Whitham, an expert on motorbike racing James conducts the interview with John as well as an audience question and answer session. MJK sports events work regularly with both and the interview and on stage chemistry between John and James is fantastic. James covers everything in the interview in a way that brings out the best in John and the chemistry between them is nothing short of hilarious. On the night you will also be taken round a lap of the TT course via the big screens with commentary by none other than John McGuinness himself and an added bonus is John brings along a couple of his famous bikes that have carried him to victory. We are delighted to offer […]

Visitors to Eastnor Castle and the village of Eastnor will be able to see a lot more than usual next week as they host a one-day event to celebrate the European Year of Cultural Heritage. On Thursday 24th May, from 11am until 4pm, Eastnor Castle will join forces with a number of other village attractions to offer a Village Open Day marking the arrival of Europe’s ‘Private Heritage Week’ in Herefordshire. This will be playing a part in the European Year of Cultural Heritage, supported and sponsored by the EU. The idea is to highlight the importance of Europe’s cultural heritage and encourage people to visit and discover it. Eastnor Castle and eight other places, including Land Rover Experience, Eastnor Pottery, Eastnor Forge, Roger Oates Designs, Norton Armouries, the Church and Old Rectory Garden and Clencher’s Mill in the village will all be opening their doors to visitors. Anthea Mcintyre MEP said ”I welcome Eastnor’s initiative. It has taken a number of years’ lobbying to get this project launched at the European level and I look forward to visiting Eastnor to see these attractions, a number if which are not normally open to visitors”. James Hervey-Bathurst, owner of Eastnor Castle […]

  The Food & Drink Trade Show 2018 – Your recipe for success in 2018 The Food & Drink Trade Show in May is an unmissable event for all those involved in this innovative and fast-moving industry. Whether you are a producer, supplier or a buyer, success depends on keeping your offering fresh, on-trend and inspirational – you need to be totally up to speed with the latest developments, ideas and opportunities, meeting the movers and shakers, and getting your own products and services out there. This unique show enables you to achieve all this, and more, for a very modest investment of time or resources. Satisfy your curiosity The show makes it easy for you to find unusual products with fascinating provenance stories to tell – the kind that discerning customers are so hungry for. You’ll be able to meet an exclusive mix of passionate producers who are really pushing the boundaries – whether you are looking for locally sourced goods or speciality items, seasonal offerings or just the very best mainstream suppliers, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s something for everyone; with exhibitors from Abbotts (S.W) to Zenith Epos, with plenty in between. Bacon, charcuterie, chocolate, beer, wine, […]

VisitEngland, the national tourist board, has announced the finalists for the Awards for Excellence 2018 with ESL Member The Riverside at Aymestrey named as a finalist. The winners of this prestigious accolade will be announced at the Awards ceremony on Monday 23 April at Bath Assembly Rooms. Set in the picturesque village of Aymestry, near the Herefordshire/Shropshire border, The Riverside Inn’s pretty black and white premises has it all. An award-winning restaurant, wonderful walks, a nature-lovers haven and of course, well-appointed rooms. Working collaboratively with industry, VisitEngland’s Awards for Excellence celebrate the best in English tourism. The Riverside at Aymestrey announced as a finalist today, represents one of the three finalists in the Best Tourism Pub category. All finalists must wait until the Awards ceremony to discover whether they have achieved Gold, Silver or Bronze placings. VisitEngland Chief Executive Sally Balcombe said: “These awards are a celebration of our thriving tourism industry.  They highlight the people and the organisations that deliver amazing experiences for visitors, raising the profile of England as a world-class destination. “The finalists have shown themselves to be of the highest calibre, using their talent and innovation to deliver excellence. The hundreds of applications this year reflect the quality […]

Your leading local destination marketing company, Eat Sleep Live Herefordshire, is well and truly putting the region on the national and international visitor radar at this year’s British Tourism & Travel Show at Birmingham’s NEC. We will launch our much anticipated new Ultimate Herefordshire guide book for 2018, hailed as the ‘Bible’ for tourists to Herefordshire, at the show, with in excess of 100 pages of places to eat, sleep and enjoy in the county. The only comprehensive guide of its kind for the county, The Ultimate Herefordshire book guides travellers to the major and hidden destinations to stay, eat out, and enjoy, as well as imbibing the county’s rich history and heritage, location by location. The two-day industry show is the largest of its kind in the UK, attracting over 3,500 group travel organisers, keen to discover new destinations and inspiration. The Eat Sleep Live Herefordshire (ESL) stand will be headlined by premier Herefordshire attractions including White Heron Properties and British Cassis, Sir Roy Strong’s Laskett Gardens, Hereford Cathedral, and shopping destination Labels in Ross-on-Wye. It will also promote over 100 ESL tourism Members and is hosted by knowledgeable ESL ambassadors and staff. Jo Hilditch, of White Heron Drinks and Properties, will stage special talks and tastings of her award-winning British Cassis, linking in with the show’s […]

Marches Makers Festival 2018 is a brand-new venture organised by the Marches Makers to showcase the wealth of talent we have in and around Kington. The remit is broad: from professional artists with international reputations to crafters reviving ancient practices, and community creativity that includes music, story-telling, textiles, jewellery, craft workshops, photography, painting, print-making and lots more. The first Marches Makers Festival, showcasing art, craft and making in Kington will be held over the May Spring Bank Holiday 5 – 7 May 2018. Venues and Galleries Over the three days of the bank holiday the Festival will cover a variety of venues in Kington. These will be open from 10am to 4pm, although individual galleries may have their own opening times. Participating galleries include Made in the Marches, Studio 54 and Leg of Mutton. The Old Police Station will showcase work by up to a dozen makers, as will St Mary’s church, while Hergest Croft will host larger sculptural pieces in their famous gardens. The Border Bean Café will also have an exhibition of paintings. Craft Market and Workshops There will be the opportunity to see local makers at work in the Market Hall at the Craft Market, and Harmony […]

Prestigious Engineering Heritage Award for Waterworks Museum – Hereford. Over the past 30 years the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) has granted some 115 Engineering Heritage Awards (EHA) to celebrate the essential contribution of mechanical engineering to our past and present.  We believe that the EHA is the most prestigious award that an industrial heritage museum can achieve so it was with great pride that we learned that the Museum’s triple-expansion steam engine of 1895 is to be the latest recipient. To celebrate the presentation of this prestigious award the Trustees have agreed that on Sunday 18th March 2018 the Waterworks Museum will be open with all engines and pumps working (in-steam) with FREE ENTRY.  The Museum will be open between 12-4pm.  The IMechE presentation will be made at 2pm. View Heritage Award 2018 poster The Worth Mackenzie triple-expansion steam engine was installed in 1895 to replace two ageing beam engines, which had reached the end of their useful lives. The new engine fulfilled two functions. It pumped untreated water from the River Wye to the water-treatment works at the rate of one million gallons every twelve hours, and re-pumped treated water to a water tower tank.  From there the water was distributed to Hereford City […]

We were delighted to see so many tourism professionals at our New Year Tourism Forum at lovely Canwood Gallery. What an inspirational story and venue this unique gallery is. There was lots of networking and mingling with providers swapping information about the wonderful things going on around the county.   Special thanks to Martha at Send Cake for the delicious sweet treats – they were yumptious!   We heard from great guest speakers about upcoming events in Herefordshire in 2018 as well as an update from ESL’s Heidi Chamberlain Jones who shared wisdom and knowledge on getting your marketing right! For all marketing advice and tips contact Heidi, heidi@eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk. More on our speakers and upcoming events below. Canwood Gallery Our wonderful host venue for the afternoon will be open again from spring with exhibitions and events in their buildings and gardens. Go along to enjoy this peaceful place and perhaps even buy a masterpiece for yourself. Thank you to Stephen and Hannah Dale, and architect Garry Thomas for sharing the amazing story of how Canwood came to be and for looking after us all so well. www.canwoodgallery.com Send Cake Herefordshire based and baked mail order cake gifts, perfect for special occasions(send a […]

Why not take an exclusive opportunity to feel festive at Eastnor Castle this year? If you’ve ever wondered how Christmas feels in one of Herefordshire’s finest homes, Eastnor Castle will be offering the opportunity to find out this December with exclusive Christmas tours around the property. James Hervey-Bathurst, owner of Eastnor Castle, near Ledbury, will be opening his doors for private Christmas group tours at 5.30pm and 7.00pm on Thursday 21st December. All proceeds from these tours will go directly to the Eastnor Church Tower Appeal. Tours will include a look at the decorations, the candle-lit Dining Room table and a selection of bedrooms and state rooms led by James himself. Visitors will also be able to enjoy Christmas carols from the Ledbury Choral Society accompanied by a mince pie and a glass of wine. James Hervey-Bathurst said “Eastnor Castle looks magical at Christmas, and I’m delighted that we have the opportunity to open our doors for visitors. All proceeds from these tours will go towards to the Eastnor Church Tower Appeal; as Chairman of the appeal committee, I know that the income from these tours will be a big boost to the appeal.” Tours cost £25.00 per person and […]

Christmas Sparkle Organ Concert and Advent Carol Service at Hereford Cathedral The Christmas season begins with Music for Advent weekend at Hereford Cathedral, two special events on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December 2017. Peter Dyke, Assistant Director of Music at Hereford Cathedral, gives his annual ‘Christmas Sparkle’ lunchtime organ recital at 1.15 pm on Saturday 2 December. Admission is free with a retiring collection in aid of Hereford Cathedral Perpetual Trust. ‘All the music will have a seasonal flavour,’ said Peter, ‘and Christmas favourites such as “The Snowman” and the “The Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy” from Tchaikovsky’s popular “Nutcracker” suite will be included in the programme. Some work has been done to the Willis organ’s unique glockenspiel stop, so there will be a good chance to hear this distinctive and festive sound. But there will also be some of the darker drama of Advent!’ The cathedral’s Advent Procession with Lessons and Carols takes place at 3.30 pm on Sunday 3 December with music provided by the Cathedral Choir directed by Geraint Bowen and accompanied by Peter Dyke. No tickets are required for this very special and atmospheric event marking the beginning of the church’s year and the start […]

10 Cosy Cottages in Herefordshire For a Special Christmas Getaway Booking a festive cottage is a great way to get friends and family together under one roof, or have a romantic time for two. Herefordshire has a range of gorgeous cottages offering panoramic views, superb country walks, activities and fantastic places to eat and drink nearby. Get romantic with a cosy fire or be active with clay pigeon shooting, cycling, archery or golf, the choice is yours. Here’s our top ten seasonal hideaways to add some extra sparkle to your Christmas. Much Dewchurch Holiday Cottages Benefiting from the affiliated activities company running paintball, archery and more on the local land, the well appointed farm cottages range from small to large, so a really big group can take over the whole complex if required. Much Dewchurch, Hereford  More about Much Dewchurch Holiday Cottages Longwood Cottage Woodland walks, peace and tranquility are the focus for a stay in this pretty traditional property. Sollers Hope, Hereford More about Longwood Cottage Litmarsh Farm Cottages These converted cider barns make the perfect location for strolls along the riverbank and snuggling up under the beams infront of the wood-burner. Marden, Herefordshire More about Litmarsh Farm Cottages Montpelier […]

BONFIRES, BANGERS & SPARKLERS….LET’S GET A WHOOP ON! The nights are drawing in and the clocks are about to go back which can only mean one thing, some of the best organised firework displays in Herefordshire are just around the corner. It’s the time of year that we get to see some of the most amazing spectacles of colour, vibrancy and noise to make you and your family ooh and ahh with excitement. This year the firework displays in and around Herefordshire are not being held on the same evening, so what’s stopping you catching more than one and following the bonfire trail around the county! Here’s our round-up of fantastic fireworks delighting the crowds throughout Herefordshire over the next couple of weeks. Pencombe Young Farmers Display Fri, Oct 27 | Gates open 5.30pm Fireworks 7.00pm | Shortwood Farm | Pencombe, Bromyard HR7 4RP| Tickets £7 Adults & £5 for under 12’s, family ticket £20  Pencombe Fireworks Details Licensed bar, food and raffle. All proceeds to Pencombe Young Farmers Club Weobley Bonfire & Fireworks Display Fri, Nov 3 | Bonfire 6.30pm Fireworks 7.00pm | Weobley Village Hall | 8 Gadbridge Rd, Weobley, Hereford HR4 8RZ| Tickets £5 Adults & £2 […]