At the center of the county’s agricultural area, the city of Hereford offers up its cathedral, first built in the 11th century, burned down by the Welsh, and rebuilt in the 12th century. Of particular note is the Lady Chapel, built in the 13th century.
At the cathedral is the Chained Library where 1500 books and manuscripts are still in place thanks to that chaining. The best known feature of the library is the Mappa Mundi, a 13th century illustrated world map. The story of the library and its contents is told through models, original artefacts, and interactive computer technology.
In the centre of the city is the timber-framed The Old House, dating from 1621, and the last remaining of a row of houses, Butcher’s Row. It now houses a museum with the interior set up to reflect a home of the 17th century.
Herefordshire is replete with cider apple orchards. In the springtime a riot of blooms greets the visitor. In the autumn, cider making takes place, and visitors can tour some of the processing operations.The Bulmer Cider Company and the Cider Museum, where the history of cidermaking is on display, are located in Hereford. The brewery offers tours of their modern factory where mechanized machinery makes much noise and quickly turns apples into cider using advanced technology. Near Much Marcle, the smaller Weston Cider Mill, in business since 1880, also offers tours of its smaller and less mechanized plant.
Once a disputed area between England and Wales, Herefordshire now exudes charm. Its historic houses, rural villages, hills and valleys offer an intriguing mix that never fails to delight. Sir Nikolaus Pevsner had it right when he said, "Wherever one goes, there will not be a mile that is visually unrewarding".
Hay-on-Wye is 13 miles distant, sitting on the border of England and Wales in the foothills of the Black Mountains, and is close to the Brecon Beacons National Park. The Offas Dyke Footpath and the Wye Valley Walk are accessible from here. Hay is famous for its bookshops, but also has lots of galleries antique shops, restaurants and gift shops. Early summer finds Hay full to capacity as it hosts the famous annual Hay Festival.
Kington, with its many walks and intesresting streets, is 18 miles away, and dates back to Domesday. The picturesque Black and White trail lies to the north of Kington, worth a walk along at any time of year. Follow the route through the countryside and visit Weobley, Pembridge, Eardisland, and Lyonshall.
Herefordshire is a dream county for lovers of black-and-white-houses. It offers a trail the visitor can follow from village to village, each packed with interesting architecture and camera-pleasing views. Among the villages on the trail are Pembridge, Eardisland, Weobley, and Eardisley.
Weobley is a large attractive village. A walk around this picturesque village offers rewarding views. The high church steeple marks the landscape from far awayOne of Eardisley’s attractions is its church built from the 12th through the 14th century and containing a 12th century font.
Eardisland, beside the River Arrow, is noted for its many historic houses, among which is the Staik House, built c1300 as a Yeoman’s Hall. A dovecote houses the heritage centre.
Pembridge is the star of the black-and-white villages with every street boasting a medieval building. Among the delights are a 14th century coaching inn, a 16th century Market Hall, and a 17th century shop. St Mary’s Church, like several others in the area, has a detached octagonal bell tower. The fascinating timber structure inside the bell tower has massive beams crisscrossing each other.
The National Trust’s Lower Brockhampton estate has a small moated 14th century manor house. Its timber framed black-and-white gatehouse, of no defensive value, was built to celebrate a marriage. Inside the house are a medieval great hall and a minstrel’s gallery. The large acreage provides woodland walks.
http://www.royalforestofdean.info/herefordshire/index.shtml
http://www.visitherefordshire.co.uk/default.asp
http://www.beenthere-donethat.org.uk/herefordshire/black-white1.html
Historical Leominster is 24 miles away, and has a wealth of narrow streets and antique shops. Here you can take a stroll along the remains of the Leominster to Gloucester canal.
Fine wool has been produced here in this gentle country town since the 13th century and owing to the close proximity of the county town of Hereford and the rich farmland that abounds throughout this lovely area, prized Hereford cattle are bred here for exportation to countries all over the world.
In the town several black and white buildings still exist and these include Grange Court built by John Abel in 1633. This building was formerly the town hall, it was taken down and re-erected on it's present site in the mid 1850's. Of great interest too is the Priory church which has a double nave, finely decorated windows and an intricately carved norman west door. Inside this beautiful church all is calm and peaceful and on view is a large, well preserved, wheeled ducking stool.
From these early days Leominster has developed into a prosperous town and there are many interesting streets both in and around the town. Broad Street, as its name suggests is wide and full of gracious buildings which house a variety of antique emporiums all of which stock a range of antiques from textiles to fine art and furniture. Along other streets and walkways can be found many general stores and supermarkets.
There are several noteworthy inns and eating houses and a major draw to the town are its two auction houses both of which hold regular general and fine art sales.
http://www.picturesofengland.com/England/Herefordshire/Leominster
http://www.visitherefordshire.co.uk/default.asp
Bromyard, a pleasant market town situated equi-distance between the towns of Malvern and Leominster and, as such Bromyard is surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in England. The fields around here if not brim full of fruit trees and hops, they are grazed by cows and sheep. Bromyard Downs, lying high above the town is common land and used by locals for sheep grazing. This area is ablaze with yellow gorse and blue harebells grow in summer. From this high area there are wonderful views of the Malvern Hills to the south east and west-wards towards Wales. Warren Woods, owned by the National Trust, provide the visitor with a wealth of rich and varied plant life.
Although mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a town of importance, Bromyard today looks as though it has slept quietly through the centuries. Medieval times are evidenced by beautifully preserved black and white timber framed buildings to be seem both in the square and strewn along the main street. Bromyard is built mainly on hilly ground and one side of the main street that runs the length of the town is raised two steps higher than the opposite side creating an 'olde worlde' effect with buildings of all shapes and sizes seemingly clinging together.
In more recent times a Roman Catholic Church was built here by the generous efforts and hard work of Father Denys Matthieu, a French Benedictine Monk who came to Bromyard after spending 20 years at Buckfast Abbey. The Church of St. Joseph was dedicated on Easter Day 1914 with Mass and Benediction. However, the present Church and Presbytery in Old Road is largely due to the hard work of Father Brislane who came as Parish Priest in 1947. The first mass in the new church was the Midnight Mass of 1956.
A little out of the town is one of the most perfect medieval manor houses in England, Lower Brockhampton Hall. This beautiful house, built around 1400 for a local squire is in almost untouched condition. It is set in an enchanting secluded valley surrounded by a moat and has a gatehouse that dates 15th-century. The house is owned by the National Trust.
Close-by, in Brockhampton Park, is a wonderful nature trail that wends it's way through some fine mature Oakwoods planted some 220 years ago. This area has a wealth of rare bird and plant life that thrive amongst the ancient Yews and Larch and Beech trees.
Up here the air is so pure that Lichen grow and flourish. At dusk, in high summer it is not unusual to see Bats flying around the lakes. Woodpeckers nest in the woods and sometimes ravens can be seen. This park has rich rewards for those who seek the rare bounty. Brockhampton, is a quiet place where one feels perfectly at peace and in tune with all the blessings that Mother nature has provided.
There are several fine inns and public houses in Bromyard and surrounding area, and Bromyard Downs have secluded picnic areas.
There is an ancient hill fort at nearby Risbury and both Alfrick and Alfrick Pound have Nature Reserves. Bromyard hosts a Folk festival that this year (2004) will be on the 11th, 12th & 13th of September. This is an annual event which is attended from all over the country.http://www.picturesofengland.com/England/Herefordshire/Bromyard
http://www.visitherefordshire.co.uk/default.asp
More Black and white buildings can be found at Ledbury (24 miles away) which every July hosts the Ledbury Poetry Festival.
Ledbury is an attractive town whose centre has changed very little over the years. The Old Grammer School and Butchers Row cottage are but two of Ledbury's beautifully preserved Medieval buildings to be seen in the cobbled street, known as Church Lane. To the top of Church Lane is the richly decorated 12th-century church of St. Michael and All Angels.
In the busy High Street stands the beautiful old 17th-century, Market House which is supported by chesnut pillars,and during the Civil War a battle took place here between the Roundheads and the Royalists. Just opposite is the Feathers Inn which dates 16th-century and has many fine features from this period.
Ledbury is a town to visit at any time of year and is exceptionally pleasing on Boxing day, when the local Hunt meets outside the Feathers and all the towns folk gather in Victorian costume. Morris dancers gather to entertain on the huge old slabs beneath the ancient Market house. Ledbury was the birth place of the poet John Masefield (1878-1967) and each summer this is commemorated by the town hosting a Poetry festival.
Ross-on-Wye is 17 miles from Hereford, and sits on a cliff abvove the river Wye. It has a Heritage Centre in the old Market Hall and every year it comes alive when it hosts the Ross-on-Wye international Festival, which features many kinds of entertainment. Follow the river downstream and you arrive at Symonds Yat, and then at Monmouth, both worth a visit.
Ross-on-Wye sits on the east bank of the River Wye and provides pleasant riverside walks. A heritage centre in the 17th century Market Hall building details the town’s history. The high spire of the 13th century St Mary’s church can be seen from a far distance.
Churches
The village of Brockhampton is best known for its fine Stone and Concrete church designed by W.R.Lethaby a follower of the Arts and Crafts movement, and was built at the turn of the 20th-century.
All Saints is essentially a country church which was built at the instruction of Alice Jordan, daughter of Ebenezer Jordan of Boston, U.S.A who purchased Brockhampton Court as a wedding present for Alice when she married Mr. Arthur Forester.
One of the beauties of the church is its stunning thatched roof, one of only three in the country. The interior architecture is pure Arts and Crafts, in the nave steep arches spring low from the walls, without brackets. There is superb 20th-century stained glass by Christopher Whall, but the glory of the church lies the two amazing tapestries designed by Sir Edwin Burne-Jones. These wonderful pieces flank the high alter, they were made in the workshops of William Morris.
The area is wonderfully rural, often you will come across an ancient farmhouse surrounded by sweeping meadows grazed by cattle and sheep. There are stunning views of the Wye Valley with its silvery snaking river and although the Brockhampton estate was passed to the National Trust it still operates the land by the use of traditional farming methods.
The area offers magnificent scenery and lovely woodland walks
Many local churches are worth a vist too, including Madeley Church with its medeaval wall paintings, just 1 mile from Shenmore Cottage. Close by is Eaton Bishop Church with its 13th century stained glass window, and Dore Abbey, which hosts a Music Festival every June.Rural churches of charm abound in the county, and many days can be passed in the pleasant pursuit of them. Yarpole’s church has, like Pembridge’s, a detached bell tower dating back to the 1200s.
Shobdon’s church is a departure in style from most village churches. Constructed in the Romanesque style, its all white interior is reminiscent of a wedding cake.
Madley’s parish church is a pilgrim place from Celtic times. Completed in 1320, it contains medieval glass and wall painting.
The large and atmospheric Abbey Dore, now the parish church of St Mary, is the only reminder of the Cistercian Abbey that was once active in the village of the same name.
The tiny village of Kilpeck has a Norman church filled with decorative sculpture. Its exterior is adorned with interesting gargoyles.
Near Kington, a Saxon village, are the Hergest Croft gardens with their collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, woodland glades, flower borders and much more.
Leominster’s priory has a Norman doorway and a magnificent 45-foot high Perpendicular window. Antique shops line the town’s streets. GardensHerefordshire has some of the most beautul gardens in Britain, many owned by the National Trust. Hergst Croft Gardens near Kington, Abbeydore Court Garden an the Stockton Bury gardens near Leominster are just a few. CastlesBetween the towns of Ross and Monmouth, the imposing red sandstone ruins of Goodrich Castle (English Heritage) reflect Edward I’s desire to guard the border against the Welsh.
At the National Trust’s Croft Castle, a former Marcher stronghold, there are woodland walks, while inside the downstairs rooms are on view. Plasterwork ceilings, furniture, and porcelain are the highlights. Next to the house is an interesting small church, St Michael and All Angels built in the early 1500s.
Berrington Hall, owned by the National Trust, gives the feeling of a small and cozy mansion. The Minton china is of note as is the walled orchard where 43 different types of historic apples are grown.
A more modern castle, Eastnor, was built in 1812. Set in a large deer park, it offers views over the Malvern Hills. Tapestries, paintings, and furniture grace the interior. An arboretum and lake are further attractions. Weddings are a specialty of the castle.
Near Much Marcle is a Tudor manor house, Hellens Manor House (Historic Houses Association). A guided tour of the 15th-17th century house includes an old courtyard door where the Roundheads tried to break in and a ring that belonged to Charles I. Many interesting tales are told during the tour.
For a general guide to what Hereford has to offer see http://www.visitherefordshire.co.uk/default.asp
Canoeing
We operate a very popular 'collection from the river service' for all you eager canoeists out there - Shenmore cottage is about two days gentle paddling away from Hay-on-Wye.
Some canoe hire contacts:- Cycling
Why not try the Cider Cycling Routes? See http://www.ciderroute.co.uk/site/index.html for more information.
Fishing
The River Wye is one of the most beautiful rivers in the country, so there's no surprise that fishing is a very popular activity.Look at these websites for further information: www.belmont-hereford.co.uk
Golf
We have some excellent golf courses nearby,
visit www.belmont-hereford.co.uk for details on the Belmont course, and www.burghill-valley-golf-club.co.uk for the Burghill Valley.
Pony Trekking
The area lends itself wonderfully to pony trekking and horseriding. There's probably no better way to appreciate the views and breathe in the country air than on horseback. Visit www.llanthony.co.uk for further details.
...and many very active activities, see http://www.mountainmayhem.com/index.html
Walking
There are some lovely walks around the lanes around Shenmore cottage, and we have a couple of selected walks already prepared for you to follow, here at the cottage. Just ask when you arrive.
Also visit www.walkingpages.co.uk/places/CP_hereford_frmset.htm for lots more information about walking in the area.
Herefordshire boasts many interesting public houses, real ale breweries and local cider and perry producers.
Ale
Hereford has grown hops for hundreds of years, so it's not surprising that Hereford has its own brewery the Wye Valley Brewery.
http://www.wyevalleybrewery.co.uk/
and of course, beautiful country pubs, with good food and real ale - see www.herefordcamra.freeuk.com .
Cider
Approximately 63 million gallons of cider - well over half the cider produced in the UK - are produced in Herefordshire each year. It is integral to the economics, history and tradition of the region.
It is customary on the eve of Twelfth Night to wassail the orchards to ensure next year's crop. Fires are usually lit: one in the middle of a circle of twelve small ones.
The following websites gives lots of information on cider in the region, history, museums, and visits
http://www.bulmer.com/index.html
http://www.visitherefordshire.co.uk/default.asp
http://www.ciderroute.co.uk/site/index.html
