The stunning natural backdrop is perfect for getting back in touch with the great outdoors. We've put together the must-sees when visiting as well as some great family fun that everyone will enjoy.
1. Hay Castle Trust
The Castle is one of the great medieval defence structures on the border of England and Wales still standing. But built in the late 12th century the Castle & Manor are very much under threat now as they are in desperate need of conservation to prevent further deterioration. There is a rich history that lies in Hay Castle and in 2011, the Hay Castle Trust was formed to preserve this historic site and provide a future of cultural enrichment, educational opportunities and community enjoyment. Thankfully work on Hay Castle has begun just recently and the restoration process is in full swing. You can now visit and have your say in the future of this ancient monument as well as learning more about the history that lives there.
Address:
Hay Castle Trust
Hay-On-Wye
Herefordshire
HR3 5DG
Contact:
01497 820079
http://haycastletrust.org/index.php
2. Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum
Visit and experience the story of the Herefordshire Light Infantry in campaigns like Galipoli, Egypt and Palestine. You will also learn about their inception as the Herefordshire Rifle Volunteers raised in 1860, and in modern times, their involvement in the arrest of Admiral Doenitz at the end of World War 2. Embark on the 107 year old story of this volunteer Regiment from a small English County and the bravery, determination, devotion and sacrifices they faced.
Opening Times:
By appointment only:
Monday – Thursday 10am – 4pm
Friday 10am – 2pm
Call in advance to arrange a visit. 01432 359917
Address:
Sulva Barracks
Harold Street
Herford
HR1 2QX
Contact:
info@herefordshirelightinfantrymuseum.com
http://herefordshirelightinfantrymuseum.com/
3. Hampton Court Castle, Gardens & Parkland
The wonderful 15th century Hampton Court Castle and its award-winning gardens, at beautiful Hope-under-Dinmore and situated between Hereford and Leominster, is surrounded by 1000 acres of stunning parkland, pasture and woodlands with the River Lugg running alongside. Enjoy a castle tour and see the medieval Coningsby Great Hall, stunning Ballroom and a selection of stunning bedrooms. The children will have a wonderful time too, getting lost in the maze, discovering the secret tunnel or adventuring in the play area. There are sometimes events on so you might want to check this section of the website before your visit so you don’t miss out on anything! If you’re feeling a bit peckish whilst you’re exploring, stop in at The Orangery Restaurant, the conservatory of which was designed by Joseph Paxton in 1846.
Prices & Opening Times:
Hampton Court, Castle & Gardens are closed for the winter period and will re-open in Spring 2018. New information to follow.
Address:
Hampton Court Estate
Hope-Under-Dinmore
Leominster
Herefordshire
HR6 0PN
Contact:
01568 797777
ticketoffice@hamptoncourt.org.uk
http://www.hamptoncourt.org.uk/
4. Hereford Cathedral
Built on a place of worship since Saxon times, Hereford Cathedral contains some of the finest architecture from Norman times to present day including the 13th-century Shrine of St. Thomas of Hereford and the award-winning 20th century New Library Building. You can join the Cathedral Guides to explore the interior of the building throughout the week and also wander the peaceful Gardens of Hereford Cathedral during the summer months when the tour operates. Many other activities are hosted at the Cathedral including recitals, concerts, The Three Choirs Festival, exhibitions and even a working stonemasons yard where skilled craftsmen use traditional methods to restore the ancients and beautiful cathedral.
Prices:
Free for general admission
Cathedral & Garden Tours £5.00 each
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday 9.15am
Address:
5 College Cloisters
Cathedral Close
Hereford
HR1 2NG
Contact:
01432 374200
https://www.herefordcathedral.org/
5. The Old House at Black & White House Museum
Bear witness to a remarkably well-presented example of a 17th Century timber-framed building situated in the heart of Hereford. A pleasant, but startling sight amongst the commercial centre of the city, The Old House stands as a beautiful reminder of times-gone-by in the middle of a modern shopping precinct. It has held many roles in its time from a butcher’s home, a shop and finishing its commercial life in the late 1920’s as Lloyds Bank. Following this, it has been transformed into a fascinating museum giving an insight into life during Jacobean times. Wonderful furnishing including rare wall-paintings, a four-poster bed and baby-walkers which will delight and intrigue you. There are plenty of hands-on activities for children too including replica clothing puzzles to get involved with.
Prices:
Free entry.
Opening Times:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11am – 4pm
Wednesday 10am – 4pm
Address:
High Town
Hereford
HR1 2AA
Contact:
01432 260694
herefordmuseums@herefordshire.gov.uk
https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/museums
Things to do with the kids in Herefordshire
1. Haugh Woods Butterfly Trails
There two trails that lead through the Haugh Woods, set up by the Forestry Commission and Butterfly Conservation to allow everyone to enjoy the numerous butterflies that live there. The woodland is a nationally important site as it is home to over 600 species of butterfly. Both trails have an easy grade, the north is 1.5 miles and the south is 2 miles and there are a number of information boards along the way to describe some of the species you will be spotting. The trails are made up of hard forest tracks with gentle slopes which should make easy going for you and the kids, even if you have a pushchair. If it’s a nice day, why not take a picnic with you and enjoy the surroundings as you look out for the many species.
Prices:
Free
Opening Times:
Daily during daylight hours
Address:
Mordiford
Hereford
Herefordshire
HR1 4LW
Contact:
03000674800
2. Hereford Society of Model Engineering
Broomy Hill has tracks for popular gauges of model locomotives with both an elevated and ground level tracks. Visiting on one of the ‘Public Running Days’ makes for an enjoyable day for all the family – Chose from either track and see where they take you! Rides are available to the public on the 2nd and last Sunday’s of the month during Spring, Summer & Autumn. In the clubhouse, you will also find a children’s hands-on railway, an archive, museum and photo display as well as refreshments and seating.
Prices & Opening Times:
2018 schedule to follow.
Address:
Hereford Society of Model Engineering
Broomy Hill
Hereford
HR4 0LJ
Contact:
3. Play Planet
If the weather isn’t too great, why not head to Play Planet – guaranteed to keep your little ones happy and occupied! The business is family run and there are sections for various ages of children like the ‘Under 2’s area’, ‘2 tier toddler area’ as well as Zip wires, Trampoline Beds, a Climbing Wall and interactive floor games just to name a few! For the adults, there is a large café offering a selection of foods from a full English breakfast to fresh pizzas. Plenty of comfy seating, free wifi and air con are all available so you can enjoy just as much whilst the little ones are occupied. If you’re visiting during the week, Vicki also offers free supervised activity and sensory sessions. Check out the other activities available here.
Prices:
3-24 months £1.00, Over 24 months £5.00, Twins discount 2nd child half price.
Adults enter for free accompanying a child.
Opening Times:
Monday – Sunday 9am – 5pm
Address:
122-124 Widemarsh Street
Hereford
Herefordshire
HR4 9HN
Contact:
01432 355777
playplanethereford@outlook.com
http://playplanethereford.co.uk/
4. Manic Ceramics
Whether you want to make a unique and special gift to remember your visit or just spend some relaxing time with the family, Manic Ceramics is the place for you. You’ll have lots of fun designing your own unique masterpiece, that once kiln fired, you can keep a treasure as a lovely reminder of Herefordshire. There’s no need to book, but keep in mind weekends and holiday periods are naturally going to be a little busier so you can always give them a call and they will be happy to save seats for you. It’s a good idea to visit at the start of your trip because your finished pieces will also be glazed and fired so will take a few days until you can collect them.
Prices:
Pay for what you paint!
Opening Times:
Tuesday – Saturday 11am – 5pm
Address:
10 St Martins Street
Hereford
Herefordshire
HR2 7RD
Contact:
01432 277712
http://www.manic-ceramics.com/index.html
5. Llama Trekking at Old King Street Farm
Who doesn’t love a llama?! Enjoy the Llama trek experience including calling in, catching, halter, grooming and walking your llama through the fields, farm and beyond through the glorious Herefordshire countryside. Treks are tailored to your party/family’s requirements and they do not mix so your experience will be exclusive. In total, you can expect to spend around 2 ½ hours enjoying the fun with the charming and inquisitive animals.
Prices:
Adults £45, Children £30
Opening Times:
Subject to change, call the attraction directly to avoid disappointment
Address:
Amanda Huntley & Robert Dewar
Golden Valley Llamas
Ewyas Harold
Hereford
Herefordshire
HR2 0HB
Contact:
01981 240208