Be inspired by our list of the top 12 things to do in Hereford City right now, from museum hopping and spectacular riverside walks to new and established foodie highlights.
Herefordshire generally is well-known for its abundant countryside, rolling hills and fragrant orchards but, sitting centrally in the county, the beautiful Saxon City of Hereford is packed full of culture, cuisine and curiosity. Whether you’re local, or a visitor, rediscover this pretty City big enough to have it all but small enough to get around.
1) One of the best ways to really discover the city’s past and present is via a fascinating walking tour, led by local experts from the Guild of Guides. 2) After working up an appetite on foot, stop for a delicious afternoon tea at elegant Castle House and discover their wonderful new waterside restaurant overlooking the stunning terraced garden, alongside the waters of the original Castle Pool.
Hereford offers a wealth of history and culture packed into its museums. 3) Marvel at the remarkable 17th century architecture of the Black & White House Museum, which features rare paintings and period pieces portraying life in Jacobean times, plus hands-on activities for children.
4) Learn about Hereford’s huge industry and heritage in traditional cider making at the Museum of Cider located on the site of the original Bulmer’s factory, or 5) discover the story of the City’s drinking water at the enthralling Waterworks Museum, home to an acclaimed collection of working steam pumps and waterpark. Water is still pumped from the River Wye to serve the area even today. 6) The Heritage Suite at Hereford Town Hall is home to the City’s civic treasures, housing historic silver and incredible ancient charters, as well as many other interesting artifacts.
7) Enjoy a picturesque stroll through the Castle Green (Hereford’s original Castle bovy) and along the banks of the River Wye, taking in the extraordinary iron lacework of the Victoria Bridge and stop off for a picnic in the King George V Playing Fields and parkland.
8) A visit to Hereford wouldn’t be complete without an experience at the magnificent Cathedral. Home to the Mappa Mundi; Hereford’s internationally famous medieval map depicting the world as interpreted by scholars over 700 year ago, and The Chained Library, a unique chained security system from the 17th century, featuring over 1,200 early printed books and 229 illuminated manuscripts. Sit under the captivating Ascension window for a moment of reflection and consideration of the City’s link with the SAS and those connected with it.
9) Stay at The Green Dragon hotel, one of Britain’s oldest hotels dating back over 900 years, which has recently received a complete refurbishment. Featuring 83 beautiful bedrooms rooms, delicious dining in The Hereford restaurant, a cool cocktail bar and the wonderfully relaxed Garrick Lounge this is a great meeting spot.
10) Get a real taste of Hereford beef at The Beefy Boys, the awarding-winning ‘meat boutique’ cocktail and burger bar, where even in Las Vegas they were voted 2nd in the World’s Best Burger.
11) And open from Breakfast right through until late afternoon, you’ll love the unique location of Bill’s Kitchen, the contemporary cafe and restaurant set in All Saints Church, owned by food author and chef Bill Sewell.
12) Enjoy a tipple and tapas at the City’s newly re-opened champagne & cocktail, cuisine and club venue Saxtys. From its brasserie menu to the cocktail and champagne bar, Caribbean grill terrace and rum shack, to the weekend nightclub, Saxtys has it all.
Heidi Chamberlain-Jones, founder of Eat Sleep Live Herefordshire, commented: “Hereford mixes modern with Medieval, offering an abundance of history, heritage, family fun and is fast becoming a foodie haven too. There is so much to discover on a visit to the City!”
Of course, these are just a few locations to discover, see the rest of our website for many more.