Last-Minute Holiday Ideas
Super holidays for families in Herefordshire
Fun farm stays, posh glamping, vintage van sleepovers... There's plenty to tempt families to Herefordshire over the summer break. Whether you’ve been too busy to book the family holiday, or you just fancy a few days away to break up the kids’ summer hols, take your pick from chocolate box cottages, woodland cabins, or just a good, old-fashioned tent pitch.
If you're planning to stay between 19th and 30th August, make sure to check out the free Summer of Fun while you're here. This two-week programme (excluding weekends) of both active and creative events and activities, funded by Herefordshire County BID and UKSPF, is a great chance for kids and young people to try something new. Events are taking place in five market towns, all over the county, so chances are there'll be fun around the corner, no matter where you're staying.
Here’s our rundown of places with some remaining availability this summer.
For Thrill Seekers and Active Explorers
Book one of White Heron’s luxurious cottages and sink your teeth into a holiday with an edge. Here, you’re in the most marvellous spot for adventure, with Oaker Wood Leisure just 15 minutes away – try everything from quad biking and high ropes to paintballing and clay pigeon shooting. Kids love the multi-activity days they put on throughout the summer hols, too. If you’re in the mood for some off-roading, check out the Land Rover Experience at Eastnor Castle and go for a spin through ravines, gaping ruts, and deep water. There’s even a special course for kids over three to enjoy in teeny replica Defenders!
Another super spot to base you and your family for an active holiday is YHA Wye Valley, about 20 minutes from Ross-on-Wye. Book a private family room, stay in a quirky bell tent or landpod, or just pitch a tent on their 25-acre complex. Bring a canoe or kayaks with you, and explore the Wye Valley right from the river, launching from the YHA’s own landing station. There are heaps of glorious walks on your doorstep as well, with the imposing Goodrich Castle (English Heritage) under an hour’s walk away.
For History Lovers and Cultural Explorers
Set up camp at Arrow Bank Country Holiday Park, near picture-perfect Eardisland, and have three fantastic heritage trips under a 20-minute drive away. Grab your boots and try Croft Castle’s family-friendly walks, exploring ancient woodland and maybe even spotting an otter on the River Lugg. Discover ‘Capability’ Brown’s final landscape and gardens over at the neoclassical Berrington Hall. Hampton Court Castle, with its fabulous maze and gardens, offers guided tours of the castle on Sunday through Tuesday, where you can peek at medieval stonework, historic armour and rich tapestries.
In the mood for more of a city break? Check into Hereford’s Green Dragon Hotel and spend a few days mooching around the cathedral, museum, and all sorts of terrific independent shops. If you’re of an artsy inclination, pop along to the Apple Store Gallery to discover work by local artists. Caroline Whittaker is exhibiting from 24th July to 24th August, followed by an open studios event from 28th August till 21st September, where you can see the artists at work and learn more about what they do. Oh, and do make sure to explore Hereford’s brand-new Art & Sculpture Trail during your stay, too.
Quirky Stays, Off the Beaten Track
Herefordshire is full of quirky, alternative places to stay, from treehouses to tipis. Browse a selection of tree cabins at The Fold Treehouses and Brook House Woods before exploring your beautiful surroundings with local trails leading to plenty of picturesque views. Immerse yourself in the art of wood craft or relax in an outdoor oasis complete with wood fired hot tubs.
Further south, White House Glamping is a magical spot to fish, paddle and forage along the banks of the Wye. There’s even a secret beach onsite (shhh!). And, with places like the Forest of Dean and Symonds Yat nearby, you can cycle, hike and even GoApe to your heart’s content. Each luxury tipi sleeps up to five, coming with its own movie projector and firepit – perfect for cosying up and roasting marshmallows after an active day.
For a totally whacky escape, book a retro caravan in the Mad Dogs & Vintage Vans wildflower field, five minutes from Ross-on-Wye. In the grounds of an old rectory, you’re surrounded by delightful woodland and huge views out to the west. After a morning of exploration, grab scrummy local produce from their onsite deli and enjoy a lazy lunch al fresco. Then, if you don’t fancy cooking come the evening, book a delicious homecooked meal with your hosts and watch the sun set over the Black Mountains while you eat.
Farm Stays for Families
Now, for a truly rural escape, you can’t do much better than staying on a working farm. Over at 16th-century Drovers Rest, choose from posh safari tents, stone cottages and bell tents, and enjoy pure idyll in the heart of organic farmland. There’s plenty for kids to do here, from animal safaris and campfires to den building and wild play areas. Bookworms, you’re not far from Hay-on-Wye here, so make sure you stock up on bargain books from the town’s many independent sellers during your stay as well.
The luxurious barn conversions at Cherry Orchard Barns make another super farm stay, sleeping up to 5. Tucked away within the sprawling Lower Hope Farms Estate, you’re surrounded by livestock pastures, expansive arable and fruit fields, and acres of landscaped gardens. Hop on your bikes and explore miles of cycle paths right from the cottages, or try one of our Cider Circuits that’ll take you on back roads and quiet lanes across the county.
