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It’s Musicals Season at The Courtyard Cinema in Hereford. Everything’s coming up roses at The Courtyard this season as its film programme includes four iconic musicals to be screened as part of British Film Institute’s (BFI) Musicals! The Greatest Show On Screen season. Screenings from The Courtyard, which are presented in partnership with the BFI Film Audience Network, include a singalong version of Doris Day classic, Calamity Jane (U) (Wed 29 Jan, 5pm) where audiences can also enjoy a free Barn Dance session from 4pm, a showing of Ken Russell’s 1975 British independent rock musical Tommy (15) (Thu 30 Jan, 5pm) and a Valentine’s Day screening of The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (PG)(Fri 14 Feb, 5.30pm) a romantic drama musical that is sung in French with English subtitles. Tommy (15) and The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (PG) are both being re-released by the BFI as part of the Musicals season. In addition to the three Courtyard screenings, The Courtyard Cinema will be hosting a special singalong screening of all time classic The Sound of Music (U) in the iconic Hereford Cathedral building. Audiences are welcome to bring cushions and blankets to cosy up with and fancy dress is encouraged, with prizes for […]

18TH BORDERLINES FILM FESTIVAL Herefordshire, Shropshire, Malvern, and the Welsh Marches Borderlines Film Festival Comes of Age Borderlines Film Festival is back for its eighteenth consecutive year in 2020. Now one of the largest, best-attended film festivals nationally, it will take place over 17 days from Friday 28 February to Sunday 15 March in 30 locations across three counties of the Welsh Marches: Herefordshire, Shropshire, Powys, as well as Malvern in Worcestershire. Borderlines ranges over 2,000 square miles of rural Britain, bringing films and related events to venues of different size and character, from multi-disciplinary arts centres, theatres and assembly rooms, to village halls, community cinemas, a church, a pub and a cluster of pop-ups. In this sparsely-populated area of the country, the Festival attracted a record 21,678 attendances for its 2019 edition. A total of 280 screenings, more than ever before, are planned for 2020. 80 features and around 30 shorts will make up the programme. These films will be supplemented by guest speakers, exhibitions and additional moving image events. The Independent Cinema Office programmes Borderlines and secures a generous proportion of film titles screening at the Festival prior to their UK release. These previews comprise approximately 30% of […]

As the festive season gets into full swing, Eastnor Castle, near Ledbury, will be opening its doors for a very special evening of Christmas magic, just a week before the big day! On the evening of Wednesday 18th December, James Hervey-Bathurst, the owner of Eastnor Castle, will be welcoming visitors from 6pm until 8.30pm to sample the delights of Christmas at Eastnor. The castle doors will swing open for three scheduled tours, each led by James himself and will take in the beautifully decorated Great Hall including a 20-foot tree featuring decorations handed down through generations. The historic bedrooms and the atmospheric, candle-lit dining room will give people a glimpse into Christmas from a bygone era. The tour will include a glass of wine and a mince pie as well as Christmas carols by members of the Ledbury Choral Society. The event is to raise funds for the Eastnor Church Tower Appeal in which James is heavily involved. Up to £120,000 needs to be raised for a project to repair the ancient and beautiful church and to improve its facilities to allow wider use. The Church is a grade 1-listed Place of Worship and on the Historic England Buildings at […]

PENSONS WINS BEST RESTAURANT AND FOOD & DRINK BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AT THE HEREFORD TIMES FOOD & DRINK AWARDS 2019 Pensons has been awarded Best Restaurant or Dining Pub and named overall winner of Food & Drink Business of the Year at the Hereford Times Food & Drink Awards 2019.  The Hereford Times Food & Drinks Awards, now in their second year, celebrate innovation, service and creativity in food and drink industries across Herefordshire. The awards ceremony took place on Tuesday 19th November at Hereford Racecourse and was presented by journalist, Rob Stokes. The awards cover 11 different categories including Best Cider Producer, won by Bromyard’s Little Pomona and Best Drinks Producer awarded to Penrhos Spirits. Pensons vision is to cook imaginative, ingredient-led menus that showcase the very best produce that, whenever possible, is grown on the Estate or sourced locally during the seasons. This approach was applauded by the judges who also commented that Pensons had elevated the region to national recognition with their recent Michelin Star accolade. Peta Darnley, Pensons Managing Partner, commented; ‘Our ethos is to put local at the heart of what we do. So not only do we grow what ingredients we can, but […]

Hereford Lions Santa Sleigh Route for 2019 (Updated 9th November 2019) Hereford Lions Santa Sleigh route around the city streets of Hereford, and in the neighbouring villages, is one of the great Christmas traditions which was introduced by the Hereford Lions Club four decades ago. Thousands of children come out to see Santa and tell him what presents they would like for Christmas with some children giving him a letter (don’t forget to put your name and address on it to get a reply from Santa!). Please note: the times given are approximate. Saturday 30th November – Villages From 5pm – Moreton on Lugg (outside village stores), 5.45pm – Marden School, 6.15pm – Sutton St Nicholas School Sunday 1st December – East Belmont & Newton Farm area From 4.30pm – Eastholme (Community Centre), Westholme Rd (by Notice Board), Mulberry Close, Silver Firs, Wheatridge Rd (corner of Green Nash Close), Rowan Tree Close, Waterfield Rd (by bus shelter), Yarlington Mill (junc Coppin Rise), Carwardine Green, Ethelstan Cres (junc Waterfield Rd), Ethelstan Cres (halfway along), Ethelstan Cres (junc Masefield Ave), Charlton Ave, New Kilvert Rd, Woodward Ave, The Oval Monday 2nd December – Villages From 5pm – Holme Lacy, 5.45pm – Fownhope, […]

Charity Christmas Shopping Day at Iconic Hereford Landmark Newly refurbished Green Dragon Hotel will open its doors to shoppers on 20 November 2019 for an event to raise funds for Herefordshire Headway. At 11am on Wednesday 20 November The Green Dragon Hotel on Broad Street, Hereford, having finished a complete refurbishment during the last 12 months, will warmly welcome shoppers to its Ballroom where manufacturers and producers, largely from all over the county, will be selling their most festive goods.  The event is to raise much-needed funds for Herefordshire Headway, a charity making a huge difference to those in the county who face extraordinary challenge following brain injury. £5 entry on the day for shoppers will include a complimentary tea or coffee and delicious mince pie!  Festive food and drink; gifts; fashion and fashion accessories; and home wares will be showcased at this Christmas event.  The traders are all coming together to support Herefordshire Headway, based in Credenhill, which significantly improves life after brain injury, as a result of a stroke or accident.  Doors open 11am-5pm. So, if you are looking for that special something for that special someone, you will most likely find it at this Hereford Christmas shopping […]

‘REFLECTIONS AFTER 50 YEARS IN CRIME’ Sir David Calvert-Smith will reflect on fifty years in crime for this year’s High Sheriff Lecture, which will raise funds for Hereford Cathedral Perpetual Trust and Herefordshire Community Foundation.  Sir David was called to the Bar in 1969 and has led a distinguished career. In 1997 he became a Queen’s Counsel and was the Director of Public Prosecutions from 1998 – 2003 in which time the service dealt with several high profile cases. In 2003 he returned to the Bar, before appointment to the High Court Bench in 2005 before retiring in 2012. He was Chairman of the Parole Board from 2012 -2016, before re-joining as a member in 2017, and continues to sit in the Court of Appeal Criminal Division as a retired judge. His talk will reflect his vast experience in the law, with particular reference to the future of the criminal justice system, the increasing role of victims and legal education. Now in its sixth year, the 2019 The High Sheriff’s Lecture has been arranged by The High Sheriff of Herefordshire, James Hervey-Bathurst CBE DL and The Honorary Recorder of the City of Hereford, His Honour Judge Daniel Pearce-Higgins QC. The […]

SENSATIONAL DISPLAYS, SPARKLERS AND WARMING BONFIRES…. There’s been a crispness in the air, Halloween is looming and the clocks are about to go back. So it’s time for some excitement that will get us away from our cosy hearths. Herefordshire will be hosting some sensational firework displays this autumn, from small village gatherings to more elaborate affairs that will have you and your family whooping with delight. Here’s our round-up of fantastic firework displays in Herefordshire 2019 over the next few weeks. Saturday November 2nd 2019 Hereford Round Table Fireworks Click for more information Sat, Nov 2 | Gates open 5.00pm Fire lighting 6.30pm | Hereford Racecourse | Roman Rd | Hereford HR4 9QU | Tickets £10 Adults, children under 16 FREE. Celebrate the 43rd anniversary of Hereford Round Table Fireworks at Hereford Racecourse, the biggest display in Herefordshire. All proceeds raised will be donated to charitable causes. Ross Lions Club 2019 Bonfire & Firework display Click for more information Sat, Nov 2 | Gates open 6.00pm, Bonfire lit at 7.00pm, Firework display 7.30pm |Ross-on-Wye Rowing Club | Metcalfe Close | Ross-on-Wye HR9 7DD | Tickets £6 Adults & £4 for children or £15 for a family ticket. Burgers, Hot Dogs & Hot […]

Hereford College of Arts Students Show ‘THE WAY’ at Hereford Cathedral on Wednesday 23 October, 6.30 pm – 8.30 pm Students at Hereford College of Arts are currently working with Hereford Cathedral to produce an exhibition inspired by pilgrimage. ‘The Way’ will bring together the work of over two hundred Level Three students across art & design, music and performing arts who have been responding to the concept of modern day pilgrimage in a variety of mediums. During the project, students have spent time in the cathedral and have also visited locations on The St Thomas Way, a pilgrimage route from Swansea to Hereford. The St Thomas Way was developed by the University of Southampton, Swansea Museum and Hereford Cathedral and opened to the public in July 2018. The Dean of Hereford, The Very Revd Michael Tavinor, says: “It’s really exciting for us to be able to explore the concept of pilgrimage with students from HCA, especially as we celebrate seven hundred years of St Thomas Cantilupe here at the cathedral.” Darren Williams, Course Leader at Hereford College of Arts, says: “This project has enabled our students to engage with a theme they knew very little about beforehand. They have […]

It was announced today that Pensons, the restaurant from Lee Westcott on the Herefordshire/Worcestershire border, has been awarded a Michelin star, as a new entry into the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2020. The restaurant has been open for just over eight months, launching this January. The 46-cover restaurant is a partnership between acclaimed chef Lee Westcott (formerly of Typing Room) and Peta Darnley, owner of the Netherwood Estate where the restaurant is based. Pensons draws inspiration from the produce from the Estate and surrounding countryside. Since opening, Lee has crafted a menu with his team that is based around the seasons, and led largely by what produce is at its peak from the Estate and producers in the area. Dishes include: Herefordshire Herdwick lamb, broccoli, anchovy and watercress; Salt aged beef, black garlic, cep and nasturtium; Scallop, yeast, apple and monks beard, and Lee’s signature house baked IPA sourdough served with cultured butter. Lee comments, “It is such an honour to be awarded a star alongside some truly brilliant chefs and restaurants. I’m immensely proud of the entire team at Pensons, whose hard work has made this possible, and who took a chance on a new opening in the […]

A Service of Faith and Reconciliation will open Hereford Cathedral’s year of celebrations to commemorate 700 years since St Thomas Cantilupe’s canonisation. On Saturday 12 October (3.30 pm), the cathedral will welcome the Right Revd. Lord Williams of Oystermouth who, as Rowan Williams, was 104th Archbishop of Canterbury. Together with the Bishop of Hereford, they will take part in an act of penitence and renewal and celebrate the relationship that Canterbury and Hereford share today. In 1282, a disagreement between Hereford and Canterbury resulted in a sentence of excommunication being delivered to the then Bishop of Hereford, Thomas Cantilupe. Archbishop Pecham of Canterbury delivered this adjudication as a result of conflict arising from Cantilupe defending the rights of the See of Hereford. To appeal against his sentence, Cantilupe travelled to Italy to lay his cause before the Pope, but he died near Orvieto before judgement could be pronounced, although not before he had made his peace with the Church. During the service, representatives of other Christian denominations within Herefordshire will come together to lead prayers and pupils from Hereford Cathedral Junior School and St Thomas Cantilupe Primary School will perform a short drama further exploring the story. Two new banners, […]

The Big Apple is a community event celebrating apples, orchards and cider and the ways in which they have shaped the picturesque countryside in one small corner of Herefordshire.  Harvestime 2019 marks 30 years for the Big Apple and a special opportunity to join the celebrations! Nine venues in and around Much Marcle will be offering visitors the chance to learn, taste and enjoy.  Cider and perry and making will be taking place at all scales from small to commercial, and the producers will be sharing their knowledge and providing opportunities to sample and buy. An amazing range of dessert and cooking apples will be on display for tasting at the Feast of Apples at Hellens and less well known varieties can be purchased in the Apple Market.  Marcher Apple Network will be on hand to help anyone hoping to identify their own apples. As part of the 30th celebrations, there will be two talks at Hellens on Sunday 13th October.  At 12 noon, local fruitgrower, Norman Stanier, will be looking back into the early records of the Woolhope Naturalists‘ Field Club to discover the stories behind the famous Herefordshire Pomona.  At 2pm, Professor Paul Hadley of the University of Reading will […]

LOVE EXPLORING? Discover the secrets of Hereford City with the Love Exploring app. The new Love Exploring mobile app, funded for Hereford by Hereford City Council, puts the power of discovery in your hands by providing a range of trails, quizzes and games that are fun to do and free to use. The Love Exploring mobile app is suitable for all ages and will keep the whole family and visitors to the City entertained for hours. It includes free fun activities to do with the family and enables you to explore Hereford, its culture and heritage. Download the app and click on Hereford City Trails where you will find games to play, trails to follow and a map including lots of interesting information. Check out the: • free guided trails to explore Hereford and get to know the City’s secrets with sculpture and heritage trails that may take you to parts of the City you have not been to before. Trails include the Walking and Cycling Sculpture Trails, a Blue Plaque Trail, Widemarsh Street Trail and the Breinton Springs Circular Trail. The trails will not end there though as more will be added over time. • free explorer games with […]

Kington Show 2019 promises to be a great day out for all the family. It will combine the traditional feel of an agricultural show with horses, cattle and sheep alongside  an action-packed programme of entertainment. The show will be held on its usual site at The Ovals Farm, Kington HR5 3LN, close to the Welsh Border in the beautiful Herefordshire countryside. After 150 years the show continues to be one of the most popular one day show in the county and this year will be no exception! In the main ring, excitement will be provided by the thrills and spills of the Stannage International Stunt team who will perform their daredevil stunts.  During the day, the main ring will also host the Grand Parade of livestock, the Interhunt challenge, including a hands-on experience with the hunt hounds for our younger visitors, trotting races and a vintage vehicle display. Elsewhere on the showground there will be thrilling displays from the Wye Valley Axemen, Corner Exotics, Ferret World Roadshow, Owl World, the Bill Bailey Band, and much more! In the evening, Herefordshire YFC will be hosting an after-show dance and there will be a speed shearing competition. There will be nearly 200 […]

ESL member Stockton Bury Gardens near Leominster, needs your vote as they have been shortlisted in the Nation’s Favourite Garden competition. With over 3500 gardens nominated Stockton Bury are in the TOP 30! Massive Congratulations to Tamsin and all at Stockton Bury. The English Garden, the National Garden Scheme and Viking Cruises joined forces earlier this year to find the Nation’s Favourite Gardens. Throughout spring and early summer nominations poured in for favourite gardens from among the 3,500 that open their gates to the public through the National Garden Scheme. The beautiful Garden at Stockton Bury is four-acres in size and has been created by Raymond Treasure and Gordon Fenn. Both are keen plantsman and have incredible knowledge to share. Stockton Bury has been in the Treasure family for three generations and much of the garden was pasture until the pair transformed it into this well-acclaimed garden. The original Victorian kitchen garden and impressive monkey puzzle tree are still very much part of the new garden. Now 30 years old the garden is home to mature plantings and offers keen gardeners plenty of inspiration. Both men were inspired by Raymond’s relative the late John Treasure (well known for his garden […]

The county of Herefordshire is coming together to host the first conference of the recently formed International Network of Cider Culture & Tourism Destinations this autumn. As interest in cider continues to grow throughout the world, “Ciderlands” as the network is known, seeks to promote travel and cultural exchanges between classic and emerging cider regions, as well as to act as a cider tourism beacon for the world as a whole. Founded in September 2018, during the International Cider Culture and Tourism Meet-up held in the Basque Country, Ciderlands began to be forged in November 2017, during the Sagardo Forum Cider Congress. Delegates will enjoy the full Herefordshire experience, with visits to classic country pubs, a tour of the Mappa Mundi and the opportunity to visit The Big Apple’s Harvestime festival, complete with traditional cidermaking and apple displays. Comprising four days of activities across the county in peak harvest time, Ciderlands 2019 will offer an unparalleled showcase of the region’s proud cider heritage to the cider tourism professionals from throughout the network. In addition, a number of notable public events offer the opportunity to leave a legacy of celebrating the region’s unique cider culture within the local community. Among the […]

Herefordshire is brimming with acres of parkland, splashing rivers and budding gardens – so why not unpack your picnic blanket and head out one summer afternoon? July is national picnic month and this is the county to escape to and explore in 2019. We are here to help you decide the best place to spend lazy summer afternoons with friends and family; presenting Herefordshire’s top picturesque picnic spots. Symonds Yat The gateway between south Gloucestershire and Herefordshire, Symonds Yat is famed for its beautiful river scenery, woodland expanses and its challenging rock faces. Canoe along the popular village wildlife spotting and bring along your picnic blankets and sit on the riverside, taking in the view. Sit and ponder the history of the ancient fishing town, or journey to Symonds Yat Rock, which towers 120 metres above the river and is home to resident Peregrine Falcons. https://www.royalforestofdean.info/wye-valley/symonds-yat.shtml Newbridge Farm Park The perfect place to visit with your children from Easter through to the end of September. A combination of fun, adventure and education; this really is a fantastic summer picnic spot for all the family. Bring your sandwiches and squash to one of their outdoor benches and let your children enjoy […]

Herefordshire’s Swan Brewery is marking the 50th anniversary of the manned moon landings with two aptly named ales, Swan Small Step and Swan Giant Leap. Head Brewer Jimmy Swan commented, “Hops named Apollo, Eagle, Comet and Flyer caught our eye.  These have great aroma and flavour profiles and line up perfectly for beers to celebrate the Apollo 11 mission.  The names Swan Small Step and Swan Giant Leap fell into our lap.  I’ve developed the recipes with lighter ales in mind for summer, plus the complex character that the range of hops will offer.” Brewery Partner Gill Bullock added, “The pump clips for Swan Small Step and Swan Giant Leap show a moon-boot print and earth viewed from the moon and will help sales go like a rocket.  At 4.1% and 5.0% these cosmic ales will be out of this world.” The beers on draught will be launched at a Tasting Day on 5th July 9am to 9pm at the brewery.  A limited-edition Swan Giant Leap 5% bottled ale is already available in the brewery shop and local retailers. Swan Brewery is a microbrewery founded in 2016, currently brewing around a quarter of a million pints per year, across 2 […]

Hereford Cathedral Choir will be travelling to France in June to take part in services and events commemorating the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The choir will sing at several services during their time in France, including the Royal British Legion Commemoration Service at Bayeux Cathedral, on Thursday 6 June. The service will be attended by veterans, their families and dignitaries. Bayeux was the first town to be liberated by the Allied forces and following the commemoration event at the cathedral, the choir will sing at the Royal British Legion’s service at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s Bayeux War Cemetery. During their trip to France, the choir have also been invited to sing Choral Evensong at L’abbaye aux Dames, Caen on Wednesday 5 June as part of their programme of events to commemorate the anniversary. The final event in the choir’s programme will be as part of a ceremony on the sea front at Arromanches on the afternoon of Thursday 6 June, as part of a series of events hosted by the local authority to mark the anniversary.  Geraint Bowen, Director of music at Hereford Cathedral said: ‘It is a great honour for our choir to have been invited to take […]

A new partnership agreement has been announced by Hereford Courtyard with a brand new partnership that has been established with local cider producers, Westons Cider. As part of this new partnership, Westons Cider will be sponsoring The Courtyard’s monthly comedy clubs. These comedy clubs are a perfect opportunity for audiences to grab some friends, a drink from the bar and enjoy laugh out loud comedy from some of the best up-and-coming comedians on the circuit. Previous performers at these comedy clubs have included Ed Gamble, Joe Lycett and Roisin Conaty. “Westons Cider are delighted to be working with The Courtyard.” Says Westons Cider Assistant Brand Manager, Gemma Evans, “When the opportunity came up to become sponsors of the Comedy Club Nights we had no doubts to say ‘yes’. We are really looking forward to developing our relationship, including Cider Partnership, for the long term.”  As The Courtyard enter the exciting initial stages of a £1.2m development, Westons Cider have also come on board to help renovate and install a Westons Cider Bar on the first floor Mezzanine. The company will also kindly be providing new uniforms for Café Bar staff, giving the department a fresh new look. The Westons Cider […]

Earlier this month ESL launched its first Member Experience day, for businesses to meet, network, know what’s in their area and build working relationships. Focussing on the Ross-on-Wye area 25 people attended as Members Walenty Pytel, Labels Shopping and The Laskett Gardens opened their doors to the local businesses and ESL Members for a complimentary visit/tour with huge success and excellent feedback from both hosts and attendees. Visitors had the option of which venues to attend or they could choose all three! First stop for the morning was the secluded and idyllic waterside venue that is the WALENTY PYTEL SCULPTURE GALLERY, near Upton Bishop – Filled with unique pieces for sale and from their own collection curated by Walenty’s wife Mary, the group watched a wonderful video of Walenty detailing the life story of how he became such a renowned artist in his unique way. After initially working with paper sculpture, he moved on to metal and bronze creating birds and beasts from the countryside that surrounded him, creating commissions in prominent locations around the country including Birmingham International Airport, the Houses of Parliament, JCB and many more plus private collections. A gallery tour and talk, and a peek into […]

The Hergest Croft Gardens Spring Fair in Kington is a long-established entry in the calendars of garden enthusiasts the length and breadth of Herefordshire and beyond. This year’s event, on Bank Holiday Monday (6th May, 10am-5.30pm), signals the end of an era as it’ll be the last with founders Elizabeth and Lawrence Banks at the helm as the couple prepare to step down from their duties. They do so with the Fair at the top of its game and set to attract more than 40 plant and craft stalls from a wide range of local specialist nurseries this year. The Marches Makers Festival, a group of artists, crafters and makers based around Kington, will also be exhibiting local sculpture. ‘The Fair’s grown a lot,’ said Lawrence. ‘When we first started we had about 15 stands. Now there are over 40.’ The couple set-up the Fair in 1996 and although stepping down this year, they will continue their support of the event. ‘The first Fair was held to mark the 100th anniversary of the starting of the garden,’ said Elizabeth, a former President of the RHS (Royal Horticultural Society), while Lawrence was Treasurer of the same Society. ‘It was a very […]

It has been announced that Visit Herefordshire will close on 1 April 2019 and will no longer provide a tourism promotional service for the county. While this may be of concern to some, across the UK it is increasingly common for previously funded county tourism bodies to be replaced by specialist companies who operate more sustainable commercial models and deliver a more comprehensive service. A NEW ERA FOR HEREFORDSHIRE’S DESTINATION MARKETING Fortunately all is not lost for the much-needed promotion of tourism for Herefordshire, as already established www.eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk will now continue to expand their growth as the official tourism body for Herefordshire. www.eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk has been in operation since 2015 and, under its strong Membership model and management, provides a large Herefordshire website portal, publishes a national 100 page annual Herefordshire guide book, attends industry and public shows across the country to showcase Herefordshire, engages with group travel companies to bring visitors into and around the county, writes Herefordshire press features and hosts press visits, liaises with filming and production companies to make programmes in the area, provides member business support with training, networking meetings and familiarisation experiences and much more as a fully rounded destination marketing service for Herefordshire. ‘We […]

THE DRAGON OF MORDIFORD Mordiford village grew up around an ancient ford over the River Lugg and has the oldest surviving bridge in Herefordshire dating in part to c.1352. It is best known for the legend of the ‘Dragon of Mordiford’, who would amble down from its lair in Haugh Wood to drink from the confluence of the rivers Wye and Lugg near the village. From early life, the dragon was said to have loved a small girl named Maud who resided in Mordiford. She had nurtured the dragon from infancy. When it grew into adulthood, she remained the only person safe from its reign. In the legend, after reaching maturity, the dragon’s hunger could not be satisfied with milk anymore. It started to feast on local farmers and livestock but never was a danger to Maud. The townspeople grew exhausted of the constant attacks from the dragon and sought help from the noblemen of Mordiford. A local man from the Garstone family then killed the dragon. The story of the dragon remains part of Mordiford’s culture and is continually mentioned in modern records of the village. It was said that the dragon lived until 1811. A portrait of the […]

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 […]

If 2019 is the year that you intend to propose to that special person in your life then it’s time for you to discover romantic Herefordshire. A county of mountain walks, valley views, wonderful woodlands, nature trails and fabulous food. There are some beautiful and memorable places that will capture the moment and make Valentine’s Day extra special this year. GREAT PLACES TO PROPOSE Queenswood Country Park & Arboretum Imagine the breeze on your faces and the breath-taking vistas of the viewpoint at Queenswood Country Park for your magic moment. Historically a vast ancient oak wood that once stretched to the Welsh borders and beyond, this is a stunning location at any time of year. Its superb viewpoint with panoramic views to the Malvern Hills in the east across to the Black Mountains in the west provides the perfect romantic backdrop. To find out more click here. NT Berrington Hall The historic and stately National Trust property at Berrington Hall will add pomp and ceremony to proceedings. To make it completely private, how about venturing out onto the beautiful 14 acre boating lake away from all the hustle and bustle. Or pop the question in the unique ‘LOOK!LOOK!LOOK!’ contemporary sculptural […]

Eastnor Castle announces Midlands Air Ambulance as its Charity of the Year 2019. Eastnor Castle, near Ledbury, has announced that its Charity of the Year 2019 will be the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. Eastnor Castle runs an annual Charity of the Year programme where it pledges to support a local charity in a number of ways to include the use of the castle for a fundraising dinner, the use of the grounds for a family fun day, complimentary tickets, collection boxes at the visitor entrance and an open invitation to be present on any day they are open to visitors. The team at Eastnor Castle were keen to support the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity after meeting them at their Eastnor SOS Day in June and hearing of the critical work they do throughout six Midlands counties, including Herefordshire. David Littlewood, General Manager at Eastnor Castle, went to meet some of the Midlands Air Ambulance Team based at their Strensham airbase to see first-hand how donations from local businesses support the service they offer. He said: “We are thrilled to able to support the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity this year. We are in awe of the work that they do and had […]

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 […]