3 Day Rural Retreat for Two
Spend three days unwinding in nature and restore mind, body and soul with fresh air, fantastic food, wild walks and even wilder ponies.
Feel a world away in Herefordshire! Spend three days unwinding in nature and restore mind, body and soul with fresh air, fantastic food, wild walks and even wilder ponies.
For our film, we stayed at the eco-friendly Cruck Barn near Wigmore, with woodland on one side and views across green fields on the other, but there's plenty of other delightful options as you'll discover below.
Watch the video itinerary below
Day 1: Wild moorland walk, even wilder ponies & riverside picnic
After a chilled out breakfast, head for Kington to conquer Hergest Ridge, one of our ‘easy peaks’. Climb the short, steep ascent to be rewarded with jaw-dropping 360-degree views. Spot the wild mountain ponies and hike as many miles as you like across this beautiful moorland. Return to town for a coffee and pick up delicious provisions at No 25 Delicatessen.
On to Pembridge, a pretty black and white village. Stop for a riverside picnic on the pebble beach and maybe a paddle before driving to see the divinely Rococo Shobdon Church. Walk up to see the carved arches of the original church, installed as a folly. For an extra leg stretch, take the 5.5 mile Shobdon circular walk.
Finish the day with a local feast at the Cider Barn.
Day 2: Woodland hike, artisan cider & tree-hugging
Start the day rambling around the romantic, overgrown ruins of Wigmore Castle which was at the heart of power and drama for 500 years. Trek or mountain bike to Wigmore Rolls forest, reaching the 288m summit. The 5-mile circular route arrives back in the village, ready for you to refuel at The Castle Inn.
Then, it’s time to taste the craft ciders at Newton Court Farm or visit Monkland Cheese Dairy where they make speciality cheeses by hand. Later, mooch around the famed antique shops of Leominster or visit the National Trust’s Croft Castle with its ancient trees, including the 1000-year old Quarry Oak, and delightful Candelabra Oak.
In the evening, dine at foodie favourite Riverside at Aymestrey.
Day 3: Rambling castle ruins, forest bathing & lunch on the river
On your final day, head over to Richards Castle, a tiny village on the border with Shropshire. Wander through the churchyard to find the atmospheric castle ruins. Climb to the top of the rare octagonal keep for magnificent views and say hello to the resident goats!
Then, it’s up the road to Mortimer Forest, a thousand hectares of trees. Stop off at Vinnalls Car Park and follow the 9-mile Climbing Jack trail. Breathe it all in and pause - this is a place to reset and recharge.
Head for The Lion in Leintwardine on the banks of the River Teme and sup a local beer or cider as you plan your next trip to Herefordshire.
Cosy retreats nearby
If you like the look of this itinerary, then take a peek at our range of nearby rural retreats, from gastro-pubs with rooms to comfortable cottages.
Gorgeous St Valentine's stays
Here's a look at some of Herefordshire's most romantic highlights for a touch of Pillow Talk. Think sumptuous baths, rich linens, sometimes the option for a room service or if you prefer, self-catering so you can decide what's on the menu...
