Ledbury
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Irresistible independent shops & cafes -
Home to Ledbury Poetry Festival
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Moments from the Malvern Hills
Take a mooch around Ledbury
Stroll Ledbury’s historic streets, cobbled lanes and tiny alleys to find fantastic boutiques and heritage highlights, from the distinctive Market House to the 16th century Painted Room. Woods and orchards surround the town, with footpaths winding into the Malvern Hills and along Marcle Ridge. Cider producers and vineyards are dotted nearby, as well as the stunning Eastnor Castle and Hellens Manor.
Literary luminaries, including Elizabeth Barrett Browning and John Masefield, were enamoured with this beautiful area. And the local love affair with words endures, thanks to Ledbury Poetry which hosts an annual festival and events throughout the year.
Top Highlights
Ledbury in the spring
Start the season with ‘Daffodil Weekends’ which celebrate the wild daffodils which thrive here. Hop on the aptly named Daffodil Line bus (a year-round service) to roam the ‘golden triangle’. May brings Blossomtime, when the orchards burst into bloom and there's a weekend of festivities devoted to all things apple and pear. Eastnor Castle is just the spot for Easter fun whilst Hellens Manor hosts internationally-acclaimed musicians for a week of classical concerts. Take a hike, following in the footsteps of famous poets or exploring the Malvern Hills National Landscape. Alternatively, learn a new skill from pottery to printmaking.
Ledbury in the summer
Ledbury Poetry Festival marks the start of summer. This ten-day celebration of words brings exciting international names to the town, along with live music and kids events. Glorious views await walkers, whethe on the Malvern Hills, the Marcle Ridge or Woolhope Dome. Alternatively, grab your bike and whizz around the Cider Circuit which calls at artisan makers. While away a day at the spectacular Eastnor Castle with its lake, children's play areas and special events. Delight in a wine tasting at Coddington Vineyard or tour Westons Cider, followed by a visit to Hellens Manor which is home to historic stories and tranquil gardens.
Ledbury in the autumn
September is synonymous with Herefordshire Art Week when local artists and craftspeople throw open their studio doors to chat about their inspiration, offer demos and sell their work. The hop harvest is in full swing and then in October, visitors can catch Big Apple Harvestime which features orchard tours, cider making and plenty of tasting! Follow the Wine Walk which loops Coddington Vineyard and two country churches, or soak up spectacular colour at Old Court Nurseries which holds the National Plant Collection of autumn flowering asters (Michaelmas daisies).
Ledbury in the winter
Mooch around Ledbury and make light work of your Christmas shopping. From gorgeous interiors and stylish womenswear to foodie gifts, toys and books. For extra festive spirit, come along to the annual late-night shopping event where you can also pick up bunches of mistletoe. Winter walks abound, Frith Wood and Dog Wood are moments from the town centre or for a longer hike, head via Coneygree Wood to Eastnor. Afterwards, warm up with a pint and a bite to eat in one of the cosy pubs. Continuing on the foodie front, the Ledbury Big Breakfast (end January) is the perfect chance to sample local flavours over three days.
Trip Ideas & Itineraries
Food & Drink
