Things To Do In Herefordshire

Discovery Days

Hereford

Hereford

Sitting on the banks of the River Wye, the charming city of Hereford offers a mix of rich history, stunning architecture, and relaxing walks by the river. Visiting Hereford Cathedral is a must for any budding historians. The cathedral houses the Mappa Mundi, a huge medieval map of the world, as well as the Chained Library, where books are literally chained to shelves. You can also admire the stunning stained glass windows and Norman architecture. For a glimpse into what life in Hereford used to look like visit the Black and White House Museum, or be entertained at The Courtyard Theatre. The River Wye Walk is an easy and scenic way to explore the city passing significant landmarks as well as green open spaces. If you want to stretch your legs a little further head downstream toward Wye Bridge. There are plenty of cafes to stop enroute or have a picnic in the park at Castle Green.

Cider Houses and Orchards

As the cider capital of the UK, it would be rude not to discover more about Herefordshire’s plentiful cider farms and orchards. Whether you want to take a guided tour, learn about the cider-making process or simply sample some of the local ciders, there are plenty of cider farms to choose from. Enjoy a tour and tasting at the family run Ross-on-Wye Cider & Perry in Peterstow near Ross-on-Wye. Visitors are also welcome to take free self-guided walks through the orchards during the spring and summer or visit during one of their regular festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Other cider farms to visit include Westons Cider Mill for a large scale experience, Gwatkin Cider Mill for a more authentic and rustic working farm and Newton Court if you want to combine cider tasting with fine dining.

Leominster

The historic market town of Leominster is known for its black-and-white timber-framed buildings, charming antique shops and historic connection to the wool trade. You would be forgiven for simply spending the afternoon browsing the fabulous collection of antique dealers and independent shops. With over 120 dealers it is no surprise that Leominster is a popular location for TV shows like Bargain Hunt and Antiques Road Trip. When you are shopped out explore the stunning 17th-century timber-framed Grange Court or discover more about the local history at Leominster Museum. Just outside town the Queenswood Arboretum is a huge woodland where you can go for a walk, enjoy a picnic and let the kids run wild on the Gruffalo sculpture trail.

Symonds Yat

Located in the Wye Valley on the Herefordshire and Gloucestershire border, Symonds Yat is famous for its limestone gorges and dramatic river views. It is split into two parts, Symonds Yat East and Symonds Yat West, with ancient hand-pulled ferries connecting the two. Head to Symonds Yat Rock for fantastic ‘S bend’ views of the River Wye. It is also an excellent spot for birds watching. If you visit in April you can often see Peregrine Falcons nesting on the nearby cliffs. The viewpoint sits on the site of an Iron Age hillfort built 2,500 years ago, but you can still see the remains of the ramparts today. Other popular activities at Symonds Yat include exploring the numerous footpaths or kayaking or canoeing on the River Wye. Symonds Yat Canoe offers a variety of packages from a one hour taster to multi day paddles on the river.

Walking Days

Kington

Herefordshire Trail

Choose a section of the 154 mile long Herefordshire Trail which links the five historic market towns of Ledbury, Ross-on-Wye, Kington, Leominster and Bromyard. If you are looking for a relaxed day out the section between Ledbury and Much Marcle winds its way through Herefordshire’s famous cider orchards. Take a mid way pit stop at Westons Cider Mill and enjoy the stunning views from Marcle Ridge. If you want to swap cider orchards for some prehistoric heritage tackle the 10 mile route from Dorstone to Whitney-on-Wye. Visit the legendary Arthur’s Stone, a Neolithic burial chamber, and climb to the top of Merbach Hill for stunning panoramic views over the Wye Valley and toward the Black Mountains. The most challenging section of the trail runs from Lingen to the historic Roman village of Leintwardine and includes the peak of Harley’s Mountain sitting at 1,260 ft.

Malvern Hills

The Malvern Hills, straddling the border between Herefordshire and Worcestershire, offer fantastic walks and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There are several hiking routes of varying difficulty ranging from dramatic ridge trails to shaded woodlands. A popular route, combining ancient history with stunning views is the 7 km British Camp and Herefordshire Beacon Circular. The walk traverses the massive earthworks and defensive ditches of British Camp, an Iron Age hill fort dating back to 200 BC. You can clearly see the ancient ramparts encircling the beacon as well as views of the British Camp Reservoir sitting below the hills. If you are looking for something a little more strenuous the 18 km Ledbury to Malvern walk crosses Eastnor Deer Park and traverses the ridge including several major summits along the way.

Stroll Along the River Wye

The River Wye offers some of the most picturesque riverside scenery in Britain. With walking routes ranging from easy, flat riverside paths to more challenging, elevated walks there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Ross-on-Wye riverside walk is a popular stroll from the town. It’s suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs making it something that the whole family can enjoy. Soak up the beautiful views and pop into the Hope & Anchor pub on the river bank. The stretch of river from Tintern Abbey to the village of Brockweir is another lovely walk, with the Old Station tea rooms being a popular refreshment stop. For an extra challenge take the steep climb up through the woods in Tintern to the Devil’s Pulpit, a limestone outcrop on the Offa’s Dyke Path where you can enjoy a birds eye view of Tintern Abbey and the River Wye. Follow the ridge to Brockweir and return along the river to make it a circular route.

Black and White Village Trail

Walk a section of the circular 40 mile Black and White village trail whilst admiring some of England’s finest timber-framed architecture along the way. The trail typically starts in the market town of Leominster and then winds it way through picturesque villages. Admire the rare pink and black house in Weobley, the 13th century detached wooden belltower in Pembridge and the classic village green with half-timbered cottages converted from a 300-year-old tithe barn in Dilwyn. Sitting on the River Arrow the village of Eardisland is frequently voted the prettiest village of them all. The 17th-century dovecote now serves as a community shop and visitors centre. Whichever section of the trail you decide to explore there are plenty of pubs along the way including the dog friend The White Swan in Eardisland and Ye Olde Salutation Inn in Weobley.

Adventure Days

Ross on Wye

Canoeing

The River Wye is the perfect spot for canoeing in Herefordshire. Whether you just fancy dipping your toe in the water for an hour’s taster session, or you are looking for a full days adventure on the water there are plenty of routes to choose from. Symonds Yat is the most popular spot. The 8 mile stretch between Kerne Bridge and Symonds Yat is a great route for the whole family, passing through a scenic gorge and ending at the Symonds Yat rapids for anyone wanting a little more speed! If you are looking for a full days on the water the Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat route is one of the most popular long-distance paddles on the River Wye, covering approximately 14 to 15 miles. Keep your eye out for iconic landmark such as the cliffs at Coldwell Rocks and Goodrich Castle and break up the day with lunch at one of the many riverside pubs .along your way. There are plenty of places to hire canoes including Canoe the Wye and Wye Vally Canoes.

Climbing and scrambling

Whilst Herefordshire is not known for its mountainous terrain the limestone cliffs on the Wye Gorge will keep any climbing enthusiasts entertained. Symonds Yat Rock and Wye Gorge cliffs is the best spot for guided climbing. The free-standing Long Stone Pinnacle is an exposed and exhilarating route for serious climbers but not recommended for anyone without a head for heights! Or head to Wintour’s Leap, the largest crag in the area featuring a massive multi-pitch limestone slab towering 90 metres above the river. If you would rather go scrambling, the hidden cliffs and rocky outcrops at The Doward is quieter and wilder than Symonds Yat, making it a great spot to piece together your own route as you wander through the woodland finding rocky outcrops and limestone crags. If you are new to rock climbing or scrambling organisations such as Inspire to Adventure offers lessons and guides to help you on your way.

Mountain biking

If you are wanting a full days adventure without the crowds head to Mortimer Forest on the Herefordshire and Shropshire border with your trusty two wheels. Offering a mix of sweeping forest tracks as well as more technical singletrack trails Mortimer Forest is a popular spot for mountain biking. The 40 mile Ludlow Loop is not for the faint hearted but is arguably one of the best ways to explore the forest with a mix of road, valley, climbing, forest fire roads and long descents all in one loop. The shorter Mortimer Forest loop from Pipe Aston is a more achievable ride at just 7 miles, with optional viewpoints along the way. For those wanting to test their limited The Full Monty singletrack trail offers technical features including berms and gap jumps whilst the Bringewood Downhill Track on the edge of the forest is perfect or those with a need for speed. There is no bike hire located directly inside Mortimer Forest, but you can find several providers just a few miles away in and around Ludlow.

Paragliding

For the ultimate adventure day why not have a go at paragliding over the Herefordshire countryside. GoFly PPG, based near Hereford, offers a variety of options including tandem paragliding with an instructor. With no experience required you can soar high in the sky whilst being safely strapped to an experienced instructor. For an equally unforgettable experience you can also enjoy an introductory flight in a two seat glider with Herefordshire Gliding club at Shobdon Airfield. Flights typically last between 15 and 30 minutes after you have been launched behind a tow plane after your reach about 2000 feet. Definitely a day to remember!

Lazy Days

River Wye, Herefordshire

Scenic Drive through Golden Valley

A scenic drive through Herefordshire’s picturesque Golden Valley is the perfect escape for a relaxing day. The valley, which inspired C.S. Lewis's Narnia, is best explored by winding your way along the peaceful lanes which connect ancient ruins, cider orchards, and cosy country pubs. The official starting point is Woolhope church but it is easy to choose a route that suits you. Visit the tranquil Dore Abbey ruins in Abbeydore, or stop to view the world-renowned Kilpeck Church with its remarkably preserved red sandstone carvings. Enjoy a cider tour and tasting at the family run Gwatkin Cider or simply relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many pubs located along the river as you enjoy the unspoiled atmosphere and sock up the scenery.

Brockhampton Estate

If you are looking for a hidden gem then head to Brockhampton Estate, a 1,700 acre National Trust property located near Bromyard. With its moated manor house, tranquil woodlands, and lovely walking trails, it’s the perfect place for a lazy day out in nature. Go back in time and visit the 14th-century timber-framed Manor House where the rooms tell a story from 600 years ago, or find the historic ruins of the 12th century Norman chapel. The surrounding grounds include rolling green hills, ancient woodlands and traditional orchards. Stretch your legs on one of the four waymarked walking trails ranging from leisurely orchard paths to more challenging parkland climbs. Or simply find a peaceful spot under a tree and let the world go by as you enjoy the views of the surrounding Herefordshire countryside.

The Weir Garden

Located on the banks of the River Wye, The Weir Garden is the perfect spot for a lazy day whilst on holiday in Herefordshire. The tranquil riverside setting is ideal for a slow-paced day of exploration and relaxation whilst the gardens are the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the scenery. Have a leisurely stroll through the orchard to the secret three sided walled garden, or wonder through the ten acres of riverside gardens where you will find 9th-century rockeries, ancient trees, and Roman ruins. Keep your eyes peeled for otters near the boathouse and garden birds as you go. There are also plenty of benches and picnic spots dotted along the river where you can enjoy a long leisurely lunch and an afternoon kip in the sun.

Westonbury Mill Water Gardens

With five acres of peaceful waterways, wildflower meadows, and architectural surprises to discover Westonbury Mill Water Gardens is the perfect location to kick back and relax for the day. Meander along the grassy paths and bridges that follow the waterways and criss-cross a network of streams and ponds. Discover eccentric structures such as the Glass Bottle Dome made from 5,000 wine bottles or the antique water mill at Stone Water Tower which spouts water from the mouths of three hand-carved gargoyles. Don’t miss the giant cuckoo clock – the world's largest water-powered cuckoo clock – where a 3-foot cuckoo emerges to sing every hour. When you have finished exploring the delights of the gardens find a quiet bench to relax and simply soak up the atmosphere or take the time to quietly watch the birds and admire the views. The onsite Windmill Café is perfect for a bite of lunch if you haven’t packed a picnic. You will find it hard to resist the generous slices of the homemade cakes on offer!