The beautiful rural landscape of Herefordshire, nestled against the Welsh border, is a wonderful region to explore. The county is rich in nature with the Wye Valley, the Golden Valley and the Malvern Hills all within its bounds. Those looking for a taste of history will have plenty to choose from in the ancient city of Hereford and beer and cider fans will have plenty of opportunities to try its renowned local products. In this blog we will reveal our favourite places to visit and campsites to stay in, so that the next time you are looking for things to do in Herefordshire, you will know where to head!
1. Golden Valley
Looking for peace and quiet coupled with unforgettable scenery? Head to the picturesque Golden Valley of the River Dore. The valley winds its way along the Black Mountains in the south east of Herefordshire offering a varied landscape of wooded hills and farmland. Its untouched countryside and year round beauty has inspired many artists and writers. C.S. Lewis, best known for the Chronicles of Narnia, was so taken by the area and the Neolithic monument Arthur’s Stone, that it became the place (spoiler alert!!) where Aslan was sacrificed in the books. Visitors to the region can enjoy many peaceful walks through woodland, take to the river for some waters sports or if you are looking for something a bit different, then you can even try a llama trek!
2. Berrington Hall
Sitting in one of ’Capability’ Brown’s last gardens, the elegant Neo-Classical Berrington Hall is a must see during your tour of Herefordshire. The mansion has many hidden secrets for you to discover, some stunning decorated ceilings and a fun wig and bum exhibition exploring the extremes of 18th century fashion. The walled garden is a significant work by Brown and is now enhanced by a new sculptural exhibition ‘LOOK!LOOK!LOOK!’ by Heather and Ivan Morison. The exhibition encourages you to look at the architecture in a new light and is part of a fundraising project to restore the garden to its former glory. A visit to Berrington is like being transported back to the Georgian age, making it one of our favourite things to do in Herefordshire!
3. Wye Valley
The Wye Valley is a special place. It has been recognised as an Area of Outstanding Beauty, it is a haven for native wildlife and it is the place where the modern tourism industry began. Follow in the footsteps of Coleridge, Thackeray, Turner and Wordsworth and discover the wonders along the River Wye. The ruins of Goodrich Castle in its wooded riverside setting is a memorable sight that just has to be included in any Wye Valley itinerary! This colossal medieval fortress is one of the best preserved in England and offers a fascinating history from the Norman invasion to its romanticisation in the 18th century. These iconic sites make the Wye Valley an enchanting place. Hidden amongst its woodlands, limestone cliffs and winding roads, there is a unique surprise around every corner! Wye Valley circular walks are a fantastic way to explore this region and the John Kyrle circular walk around Ross-on-Wye is a great place to start. The walk gives you a taste of the history of the region and some lovely views of the surrounding countryside. There are many other Wye Valley circular walks to choose from, as well as a host of other exciting activities! Head to the Wye Valley and find out what makes it so special.
4. Hereford
Any visit to Herefordshire has to include a stop in the ancient city of Hereford. Its imposing red sandstone cathedral attests to its importance since Anglo-Saxon times as a religious, military and trading centre for the region. Today Hereford has a charming market town feel with a great variety of shops and some quaint cafes in its historic centre. Take a trip to the cathedral for some medieval wonder within its beautifully carved warm red stone interior. While you are there you have to pay a visit to the magnificent Mappa Mundi. This medieval map of the known world in about 1300 gives a fascinating insight into how people at the time saw their world. It is great fun to spot places you recognise alongside the monsters and strange beings that occupy the edges of the map. There is also an informative exhibition which tells the history and significance of this UNESCO recognised object and includes access to the famous chained book library!
5. Cider Route
If you are a fan of cider then you have come to the right place! Herefordshire produces half of the cider in the UK and has a rich history of cider making. One of the biggest and best known producers is of course Bulmers. The Bulmers’ factory was first built in 1887 just outside of Hereford and now produces some of the UK’s favorite cider brands. You can now explore this celebrated industry with the Cider Route. This driving tour takes you through some of the major cider producers in the region, where you can go on tours, sample some delicious cider and visit some of the over 800 apple orchards in the Wye Valley. There is also a free to download app, Golden Fire, which explores more of the history of cider production since 1945. The Cider Route is great fun and the perfect opportunity to try different types of cider and stock up for your next party!
6. Campsites in Herefordshire
Now that you have a good idea of places to visit in this region, it is time to explore our favourite campsites in Herefordshire. There are many options out there, but we think that these three offer the best combination of facilities and location.
1. Poston Mill Country Holiday Park
Situated in the Golden Valley, Poston Mill Country Holiday Park is a rural idyll surrounded by rolling hills, woodland and babbling streams. It is the ideal location for those seeking some rest and relaxation in nature all year round. The park has a Gold David Bellamy award for its conservation efforts, meaning that visitors can enjoy the green surroundings and rich wildlife on one of the specially made Treasure Trails. The park is also well located for visits to Hereford, Hay-on-Way, the Brecon Beacons and many other stunning local locations in the Golden Valley. The park has a variety of pitches suitable for both motorhomes and campervans with electric-hook ups, luxury heated washing and shower cubicles, a heated laundry room, dishwashing facilities and dog wash and drying area (dogs are more than welcome!). There are many walking trails accessible from the park, fishing on the River Dome, local cycling, outdoor games equipment is available and there is a 9 hole pitch and putt golf course. The park even has a small shop and the Mill Restaurant is nearby. Can you see why this is our favourite campsite in the region?
Price starts from £20 per night
GPS: 52.028190, -2.939313
Nr Peterchurch, Hereford HR2 0SF, UK
2. Lucksall Caravan and Camping Park
Located in the Wye Valley alongside the river, Lucksall Caravan and Camping Park is the perfect place from which to explore the region’s glorious nature. The park is 21 acres of beautifully kept grassland bordered by the River Wye on one side and the park’s own 90 acres of woodland on the other. If you are looking to try your hand at canoeing, kayaking, fishing or just some walking it is a great place to stay! Guests can choose between flat gravel or grass pitches all of which have 16 amp electric hook-up. There are 3 heated shower and toilet blocks, laundry room, children’s play area, an onsite shop and a bar and restaurant. All you could need for a wonderful holiday surrounded by the picturesque Wye Valley!
Price starts from £23 per night
GPS: 52.023400, -2.631001
Hereford HR1 4LP, UK
3. Tresseck Campsite
On a water meadow next to the River Wye and just down the road from Hereford, Tresseck Campsite is the perfect location for ‘real’ campers. The site is only open to tents and campervans and offers a rustic back to basics experience. There is cold running water, portaloos and open campfire facilities. The stunning location along the river is great for those looking to do some fishing or even swimming in one of the UK’s most beautiful rivers. You can hire a canoe nearby and make use of the easy landing site complete with wooden steps. It is a brilliant location to get back to nature!
Price starts from £15 per night
GPS: 51.960303, -2.662195
Hoarwithy, Hereford HR2 6QH, UK
So there you have it, 5 of the best things to do in Herefordshire and 3 of our favourite campsites in the region! If you want to extend your trip, why not explore the nearby Brecon Beacons? All you need now is to hire a motorhome or campervan from one of Goboony’s private owners and you are all set for an unforgettable holiday in this stunning part of the UK. Find your perfect vehicle with Goboony and make new holiday memories. #sharethefreedom
