ABOUT HEREFORDSHIRE

Herefordshire is, perhaps, one of England's best-kept secrets. It is among the most sparsely populated areas of the country and the economy is mainly rural. The rolling, wooded countryside is dotted with small, picturesque farms and orchards and there is an abundance of wildlife and flora. Sheets of wild snowdrops and daffodils are a delight to see in the springtime and Peregrine Falcons nest in the rocky crags above the River Wye at Symonds Yat. This, then is a place for those who wish to relax in a peaceful environment and get away from the "rat race" for a while! Every corner of this county has spectacular scenery and attractive little towns and villages. Hereford itself is a most interesting city with a fine Norman cathedral. This is home to the world-famous "Mappa Mundi", one of our earliest maps. It shows how the world was believed to be in medieval times. Adjoining it is the Chained Library containing many priceless manuscripts. Other places to visit in Hereford include the Cider museum and the St. John Medieval Museum. A few miles outside Hereford, visitors should seek out the tiny and unusual church at Kilpeck. Its outside walls are covered with fascinating medieval carvings depicting animals, birds and people - including a rare "sheelanagig" - or ancient Celtic fertility symbol.

Ross-on-Wye is a good centre from which to explore the surrounding spectacular countryside. The River Wye is a favourite with fishermen and then there are boat rides, pony-trekking and a visit to Goodrich Castle - to name just a few of many possible activities. Walkers can find quiet roads, lanes and footpaths in the Golden Valley and along Offa's Dyke.

Motorists may prefer to follow the "Black and White Village Trail", to the west of the county to discover various picturesque villages composed mainly of pretty, timber-framed houses. The trail begins and ends at Leominster, a town renowned for its numerous antique shops and its beautiful Priory.

The market town of Ledbury is another charming place full of historic buildings and interesting little shops.

Unusual annual events include the Bromyard Gala and the Bromyard Folk Festival held respectively in July and September.

All of the above and much more is explored in our unique video    

"Herefordshire - A Land for all Seasons".