Local information - history
Whilst it is the historical capital city of the renowned Wye Valley, Hereford has the relaxed feel of a quintessential country market town - not surprising given the breath-taking backdrop of untouched landscapes and ancient woodlands.
With one of the oldest and most magnificent Cathedrals in England, dating from 1079AD, the medieval centre has international importance. It boasts the award winning Mappa Mundi centre housing the largest medieval map in the world and two of the most extensive Chained Libraries in existence.
This is a place where the rich fertile land is put to work but with sensitivity and care. The picturesque scenery has across time provided inspiration for the creative and the vast rural landscapes provide scope for outdoor enthusiasts from exhilarating white-water rafting on the rapids, climbing at Symonds Yat, horse riding in the secluded Golden Valley, walking events in the hills or the haven of wandering gentle rolling countryside.
Places to visit
In the centre in High Town is the enchanting Old House Museum and a short distance away, the Water Museum is ideal for steam enthusiasts. The vibrant city boasts unique independent shops as well as a prestigious new shopping complex at the Old Market.
It is easy in Herefordshire to immerse yourself in fascinating architecture with time forgotten villages set in idyllic rolling countryside. The Black & White village trail showcases hundreds of 16th and 17th Century timber framed buildings across its 40-mile stretch. The county has a selection of National Trust properties including Berrington Hall, Croft Castle and Brockhampton Estate.
Indulge your senses in some celebrated local beef or, as Hereford is the home of the largest cider maker in the world, don’t miss the excellent tasting sessions at the Cider Museum!
Beyond the centre, the thriving historic market towns of Ross on Wye and Ledbury make for an enjoyable day out. For animal lovers the Owl and Rare breed sanctuary at Kington delights both young and older visitors. Hay on Wye on the Welsh border is renowned as the ‘town of books’ and hosts acclaimed literary and poetry festivals.
Travel
There is a main line train station in Hereford with direct trains to London and Birmingham, which can also be joined from Ledbury train station, meaning the capital can be reached in just over 3 hours. The M50 at Ross on Wye links with the M5 to make the Midlands easily accessible.
The A49 links the south and north of the county; however, one of the appeals for many coming to the county is the ability to potter down quiet country lanes and stumble across a country inn or a tranquil picnic spot. For airport connections, Birmingham is 66 miles away and Bristol 72 miles.
Local schools and colleges
In the heart of the City is the renowned Hereford Cathedral School catering for pupils from 3 to 18 years old and the choral links attract many pupils with musical talents. Likewise, the esteemed Lucton School with its enviable sporting history also caters for prep and preschool pupils in addition to the main sought after secondary education places.
Herefordshire has an abundancy of superb Primary schools spread across the county whilst Hereford Art College, Sixth Form College and Holme Lacy Agricultural College offer a broad spectrum of excellent facilities for those 16 plus.
The establishment of Hereford University is in its infancy, looking to open its doors to the first 300 students in 2020 expanding to 5,000 students by 2032. It looks to bring engineering and technology to the forefront in the area.