The Herefordshire Countryside: An Instagram paradise

Hills, Valleys, and the Art of Getting Lost

Herefordshire’s landscape is a dream for anyone who enjoys a good countryside wander—or just wants to feel like the main character in a BBC period drama. The Malvern Hills roll gently along the east, providing views so picturesque they deserve their own Instagram filter. Meanwhile, the Wye Valley snakes its way through the county like a moody poet, offering dramatic cliffs, peaceful rivers, and ancient woodlands that look like something out of a fairy tale (or at least an ambitious Pinterest board).

Hiking here isn’t just exercise; it’s a spiritual experience. You’ll find yourself stopping every five minutes to say, “Wow, that’s stunning!” before realising you’ve been on the same hill for three hours and still haven’t found the car park. It’s all part of the fun!

Quaint Villages and Their Even Quainter Names

If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a novel set in an impossibly charming English village, Herefordshire has got you covered. Places like Weobley, Pembridge, and Eardisley are so quintessentially English that even Americans might start speaking in a posh accent. Expect black-and-white timber-framed houses, wonky pubs that have been standing (just about) since the 1400s, and tearooms where they serve cake portions so generous they should be classified as a meal.

And then there are the place names. Only in Herefordshire will you drive past signs for Much Marcle, Little Dewchurch, or Munsley and wonder whether someone’s just making these up as they go along.

Cider: The Official Drink of Herefordshire (Sorry, Tea)

You simply cannot visit Herefordshire without experiencing its world-class cider. It’s basically the county’s life force. Home to some of the biggest cider producers, like Westons and Bulmers, as well as a host of independent cider houses,such as Ross on Wye Cider & Perry Herefordshire is where apple juice gets a proper glow-up.

For those who like their drinks with a side of adventure, there’s a number of Cider Routes—scenic drives or cycle rides connecting various cider producers where you can sample everything from traditional scrumpy to elegant craft blends. Warning: after a few tastings, even the local sheep start looking photogenic for Instagram.

Wildlife: The Local Celebrities

Move over, Love Island contestants—Herefordshire’s wildlife is the real star of the show. The county is home to an impressive collection of feathery, furry, and occasionally bewildered creatures. Keep an eye out for red kites swooping dramatically through the sky, herds of deer lurking in the woodlands like medieval ghosts, and Hereford cattle, who will look at you with the quiet confidence of creatures who know they have a breed named after them. Venture to the Forest of Dean and there are wild boar to watch out for too.

If you’re a fan of animals but prefer them in a slightly more Instagrammable setting, head to the Small Breeds Farm Park, where you can meet a variety of adorable miniature animals, including owls who definitely have a more intense stare than you.

Historic Castles and the Art of Looking Mysterious

Every countryside escape needs a castle or two, and Herefordshire delivers in style. Goodrich Castle, perched above the River Wye, is a ruin so picturesque it could be the backdrop for a period drama where someone broods attractively in a cloak. Then there’s Eastnor Castle, a grand stately home that’s still intact (which is impressive by English castle standards). It regularly hosts festivals, weddings, and events where people pretend it’s still 1815.

For the ultimate Instagram-worthy shot, try standing dramatically on the castle ruins at sunset, gazing into the distance as if you’re contemplating your next move in a historical novel. (Bonus points if you bring a windswept scarf.)

Food That Deserves Its Own Appreciation Post

For a rural county, Herefordshire knows how to eat well. Farm-to-table isn’t a trendy movement here; it’s just how things have always been done. With an abundance of local produce, expect juicy Herefordshire beef, artisanal cheeses, and strawberries so fresh they’ll ruin supermarket ones forever.

The county’s market towns are dotted with fantastic eateries, from cosy country pubs serving up legendary Sunday roasts to fine dining spots that take locally sourced ingredients to the next level. If you’re not posting a picture of your perfectly plated dish, did you even go to Herefordshire?

Events, Festivals, and General Revelry

While Herefordshire might be famous for its peaceful countryside, it also knows how to throw a good party. The Hay Festival (technically just across the border in Wales but still a local favourite) draws book lovers from around the world, while The Big Apple Festival celebrates all things cider (yes, more cider). There’s also the Ledbury Poetry Festival, where wordsmiths gather to appreciate the power of language and, presumably, the power of a well-brewed cup of tea.

Music lovers should check out Nozstock, a quirky, family-run festival that offers everything from live bands to comedy acts—plus plenty of opportunities to dance in a field while pretending you know the lyrics.

Why You Need to Visit Now

Herefordshire is the kind of place that doesn’t shout about itself—it doesn’t need to. It’s effortlessly beautiful, delightfully charming, and just the right mix of relaxing and adventurous. Whether you’re here for the landscapes, the history, the food, or just an excuse to drink your body weight in cider, this county delivers.

So grab your walking boots, charge your phone (you’ll need that camera), and prepare for a countryside adventure that’s as Instagrammable as it is unforgettable. And if you do get lost in the hills? Well, at least the view will be nice.

Where to stay

Look, we’ve gone on about pretending we’re back in time for this trip, so make the most of it by staying in sumptuous villas that let you and your family and friends keep up the play acting. BHHL have two large luxury Airbnb’s in Herefordshire are Bromsash House and Bowley Hall, check them out below,