The town of Ledbury is surrounded by woods, orchard and hills, a gateway to the footpaths leading through the beautiful Malvern area. Potter the pretty streets and explore the brilliant independent shops where you can stock up on unique homewares, artworks and books and stop off for a coffee at the charming local cafes.
If you are looking for a little pamper session then two closes by spas, Malvern Spa with its hydrotherapy pool and Wye Valley Spa, both offering a selection of spa treatments and packages will guarantee relaxation.
Surrounded by orchards, Ledbury is in the middle of Big Apple Country! Twice a year the town celebrates the Big Apple Festivals, but year-round you can head to Weston’s Cider for a tasting tour and orchard walk. Coddington Vineyard is also a must for wine-lovers who want to investigate the fruits of this growing wine region.
A trip to Eastnor Castle is well worth a visit (check website for seasonal opening hours) Take a tour through the historic nineteenth century castle and explore the magnificent state rooms, surrounding arboretum and pretty lake. Overlooking the castle and the Malvern Hills is the impressive 300-acre Eastnor Deer Park, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with a herd of Red Deer grazing in the grounds. Those planning a fulfilling walk could take the path up to Eastnor Obelisk and join the path to Worcestershire Way or the Malvern Hills.
For ten days every July the town of Ledbury is home to the largest Poetry Festival in the UK, thanks to the region inspiring a range of poets and writers from Tolkien to C.S. Lewis. Take a trip to the Barrett Browning Institute to find more information on the poetic heritage of the town and explore the charming Tudor buildings that house the exhibitions.
A trip to nearby Hereford would not be complete with a visit to the spectacular Hereford Cathedral with a beautiful stained-glass window and stone monument standing as a memorial to the SAS, a lovely spot to reflect and catch your breath. After your visit take a trip to the local Black and White Museum, a perfectly preserved Jacobean timber-framed house that unveils a varied and fascinating story of Hereford’s history dating back to the English Civil War.
If you are looking for some adrenaline pumping fun then why not try a Landrover Experience, where you can book half or full days, or even night-time sessions exploring the beautiful surrounding nature at high speed!
The Region
Luxury self-catering holiday accommodation in Herefordshire
Welcome to Herefordshire, a cool county in the heart of England, where rolling hills sit alongside verdant meadows and charming market towns throw the best countryside parties. This place is famous for its agricultural awesomeness, its stunning landmarks, its pretty valleys and rivers and its cider.
When you decide to level up your holiday game with a luxury Oliver’s Travels property, Herefordshire unveils its iconic attractions, areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and its gorgeous towns and villages.
Hereford Cathedral, the star of medieval architecture, boasts an intricate Gothic facade while the world-famous Mappa Mundi and the Chained Library make book and map enthusiasts smile widely. Hereford, the county town, is not just home to the Cathedral, it enjoys the Old House and High Town with the River Wye adding a fabulous backdrop. Hereford's market is the place to be, a buzzing hive of local produce and crafts where you can shop till you drop.
Nature enthusiasts adore the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a playground for river meandering, woodland exploring and Instagram-worthy landscapes. Symonds Yat Rock is the top spot for panoramic views that will make your jaw drop. This area is a walking, cycling and horse riding paradise. The Mortimer Trail takes you on a scenic journey through woodlands and the Herefordshire Trail is like a magical mystery tour through landscapes that make other counties jealous.
Market towns come with their own quirky charm. Ross-on-Wye, with its hill-perched awesomeness overlooking the River Wye, is all about timber-framed buildings and views, while Leominster brings the medieval market square vibe, where you can shop for antiques.
The Black and White Village Trail is like a treasure hunt for half-timbered houses. Weobley and Pembridge sit on the trail, showcasing Herefordshire's architectural game.
Ledbury adds an Elizabethan masterpiece, Eastnor Castle, to the mix, surrounded by lush grounds and a deer park where you might enjoy one of its many events. Bromyard is gorgeous with independent shops and a market that is a social event. Hay-on-Wye is the "Town of Books," where bookshops are sprinkled throughout the town and the Hay Festival draws writers and readers from all over.
Herefordshire is the cider capital, and you have not truly lived until you have toured an orchard, sampled local brews and gained insights into the ancient art of cider making.
Herefordshire is not just a place, it is an experience. Rich history, stunning landscapes and communities that are so welcoming. Whether you are into medieval landmarks, outdoor adventures, shopping or just soaking in the countryside's tranquillity, Herefordshire is waiting to captivate your soul.
