Historic Market Towns
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Hereford is situated in the heart of the county, with the River Wye running through it and with its abundance of independent shops and wonderful local food, it will make your visit a memorable one.
If it’s a bit of culture you are looking for then a trip to the magnificent Hereford Cathedral to see one of the oldest maps in the world ,The Mappa Mundi will not disappoint! It is also home to the oldest chained library in the world.
Stroll down Church Street with its boutique shops or grab a coffee by the river at De Koffie Pot. For one of the best burger’s in Herefordshire then drop into Beefy Boys. Other restaurants to visit might include The Bookshop or Cotto if Italian is your thing. If its cocktails you’re after then don’t miss out on the Offa Bar at the Green Dragon Hotel.
Why not check out our pubs & restaurants page for further ideas of what to see and do in Hereford.
Ludlow is another famous market town in the area, over the border in Shropshire and only 45 minutes away from Wormsley Grange.
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It is a thriving medieval market town (if you are there in November, check out the Medieval Christmas Fayre) and is an architectural gem. The historic town centre homes Ludlow’s 11th Century Castle which also sits on top of a cliff with a stunning view looking out over the River Theme and surrounded by beautiful countryside.
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Ludlow has a reputation as a foodie's heaven, with several fantastic restaurants and independent food shops including the Ludlow Food Centre. Csons is a firm favourite if you're after a relaxed cafe or restaurant, with a perfect setting right on the river bank. Or The Charlton Arms, located on the iconic Ludford bridge.
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Food lovers from around the country all descend on Ludlow every September when the town hosts the well known Ludlow Food Festival.
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Hay on Wye is nestled in the west of Herefordshire, bordering England and Wales. It is ‘the book capital of the world’, known for its many second hand bookshops and the world famous Hay Festival which happens every May and is a ‘must do’ on everyone’s bucket list – you will be bowled over by some of the speakers who attend - there is something for everyone. It attracts around 80,000 visitors and offers interviews, discussions and performances from some of the world’s biggest literary names who delight visitors every year.
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Beyond the town there is the great outdoors – amazing walks around Hay Bluff, not to mention a wonderful day drifting down the River Wye by canoe. After a hearty walk in the hills you can enjoy a relaxed pub lunch at either The Old Black Lion or The Three Tuns. If you are coming off the river then The Whitney Bridge is a great place to stop or possibly end your river cruising. If its ice cream you need then Shepherd’s Parlour in Hay should not be missed! Hay also has a weekly market or spend the afternoon browsing some of it's lovely galleries and antique shops.
Ledbury can be found at the foot of the Malvern hills and is to the east of Hereford. Being well known for its old market streets and black and white buildings, Ledbury just oozes culture and history. Still to this day a weekly market takes place in the Grade 1 listed market house, located in the centre of town. Find time to explore the mews and side streets crammed with independent shops, galleries and eateries. If you're into homewares, pop into the wonderful Tinsmiths or Hus and Hem or enjoy a meal at our favourite Italian restaurant, The Olive Tree.
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Embracing Herefordshire’s festival culture, Ledbury hosts an acclaimed annual Poetry Festival very Summer which attracts famous faces and rising stars! There is a usually plenty to see and do at nearby Eastnor Castle from Treasure hunts to mud runs and outdoor theatre to music festivals!
With orchards surrounding Ledbury, apples and cider feature heavily in this part of the world. The Big Apple festivals happen twice a year. Or at any time of the year, you could try a tour, a tasting or an orchard walk at the well regarded Westons Cider as well as at award-winning artisan producer Gregg's Pit. Herefordshire is enjoying a growing reputation in the wine making area, so why not visit Herefordshire's Coddington Vineyard.
