Herefordshire Tourist Information

Herefordshire is situated in Western England adjacent to the Welsh Border, and together with Cheshire in the north the area is known as 'The Marches'.

Herefordshire is one of England's most rural counties - to the west it enjoys striking views of the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons, on the east Hereford is bounded by the Malvern Hills and to the south is the scenic Wye Valley.

Herefordshire Tourist Information can be found in the main towns throughout the County.

Herefordshire is an agricultural county, famous for its hops, fruit farming and production of cider. The natural beauty of the tranquil countryside, picturesque villages and lively market towns make Herefordshire a great destination for those seeking a quiet retreat from city life.

There are many good walks taking you into each part of the County, call in at one of the Herefordshire Tourist Information centres for leaflets. Longer walks passing through the County include Offa's Dyke Footpath, the Wye Valley Walk and the Mortimer Trail. There are many fine gardens to visit and plenty of attractions to keep all the family happy.

Herefordshire Tourism begins at the heart of the County in Hereford, one of only twelve cities recorded in the Doomsday Book. Hereford Cathedral contains two of Britain's most important treasures, the Mappa Mundi and the Chained Library. Every three years the Cathedral is host to Europe's oldest music festival, The Three Choirs Festival.

The old bridge crossing the River Wye was built towards the end of the 15th century, in 1645 the third arch was removed to deter invasion by the Scots, it was later replaced, but in a different style. In High Town the black and white old house is now the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery, which holds many events. The Hereford Cider Museum, offers tours to see how traditional cider making was carried out and a chance to sample the cider produced today at King Offa’s distillery.

In the east the pretty town of Ledbury lies in the shelter of the Malvern Hills - it has several fine old buildings, in particular the arcaded 17th century market hall supported on pillars of chestnut. The town makes an excellent base for exploring the Malvern Hills and surrounding area.

Ledbury was the birthplace of the poet John Masefield and hosts an annual poetry festival in July. Nearby is Eastnor Castle, which contains many treasures, it is set in wonderful grounds and has a good play area for children.

At Bromyard, a market town rich in history, you can see rural England at its best. Traditional countryside events, such as Bromyard Steam Gala in July and Bromyard Folk Festival in September are held annually. Nearby is Brockhampton Estate where you can enjoy walks through miles of park and woodland, home to a rich variety of wildlife and the chance to visit a medieval moated manor house.

To the north is Leominster (pronounced 'Lemster'), an old wool town situated in a lovely valley by the River Lugg and surrounded by hop fields and apple orchards. The town is rich in historic buildings dating from medieval, Tudor and Georgian times. The 11th century Priory Church is renowned for having three naves, a 45 foot perpendicular window and a well preserved 'ducking stool', in use up to early 19th century, to 'still the tongues of nagging women'!

Kington in north west Herefordshire is a popular centre for walkers of the Offa's Dyke Foot Path. There is good hill walking with lovely views from Hergest Ridge and Bradnor Hill. At Hergest Croft Gardens, there are four distinct gardens, extending over fifty acres, a treat for all gardeners. Call at the Herefordshire Tourist Information centre for a leaflet on the 'Black and White Village Trail', a 40 mile journey of the half-timbered villages of Hereford.

Hay on Wye, in the 'Golden Valley' is today known as the 'second-hand' book shop town. The annual festival held in May, attracts visitors from around the world.

Ross on Wye in the south of the county is a lively market town with Georgian buildings, and a 17th century arcaded market hall in the centre, now a heritage centre. The Ross International Festival is held in August and the Regatta and Carnival are enjoyed by all ages. Don't miss the nearby beauty spot Symonds Yat, rich in flora and fauna and many species of birds including the rare Peregrine Falcon.