ABOUT

These carefully converted barns are in a peaceful courtyard setting, a mile from the centre of the scenic Herefordshire village of Woolhope. Nestled at the foot of Marcle Hill, these delightful cottages are ideal for friends and family who are looking to explore this fantastic area. Each cottage has a well-equipped open plan living area, comfortable bedrooms and their own private outdoor space to sit, relax and enjoy a morning coffee.

Guests are welcome to use the half acre playing field with swings, playhouse and goalposts which is sure to keep the children entertained. Walks and cycle rides are available on your doorstep or you can enjoy the nearby Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty of The Malvern Hills and The Wye Valley. The beautiful market town of Ross-on-Wye is close by where you can admire the impressive 17th century Market Hall and Tudor timbered houses or enjoy a stroll along the banks of the River Wye, a river famed for its salmon fishing and watersports.

The world famous beauty spot of Symonds Yat is also within easy reach and here the river has carved a dramatic gorge through towering limestone cliffs. For something a little different why not spend a morning finding out about the secrets of cheese making at the Monkland Cheese Dairy or you might like to discover the art of gin and vodka production at the local award-winning Chase Distillery? The cathedral cities of Hereford, Worcester and Gloucester are well worth a visit, as are any number of National Trust properties and gardens, such as the magnificent Berrington Hall.

WOOLHOPE

Fownhope 2.7 miles; Checkley 2.8 miles; Mordiford 3.1 miles; Hampton Bishop 4.2 miles; Much Marcle 5 miles; Ledbury 7 miles; Hereford 7 miles; Ross-on-Wye 7 miles.

Just 7 miles from Hereford, the picturesque village of Woolhope lies in unspoilt countryside and boasts two traditional village pubs, both serving excellent local food and real ale. Woolhope is close to the Wye Valley Walk, a 136-mile trail following the border between England and Wales, as well as The Hereforshire Trail and Three Choirs Way. Close by, Haugh Woods offer 850 acres of ancient forest boasting many rare species of moth and butterfly and numerous lovely walks through an unspoilt area of Herefordshire. Local produce can be acquired in the popular monthly farmers’ markets in Woolhope and nearby Fownhope, which boasts an Iron Age Hill Fort and stunning views from Capler Hill.

Nearby Hereford, with its wonderful 11th century cathedral and famous Mappa Mundi is worth a visit, as are the riverside towns of Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth with their timbered buildings, striking 17th century market halls and excellent shops, pubs and restaurants. A walk on Marcle Ridge looks across the valley to the ancient town of Ledbury which is just a short drive away with its many listed, timber-framed buildings, the most outstanding being the 17th century Market House in the town centre. The town has bustled with street markets since the 12th century and is home to antique and flea markets, craft fairs, as well as gardens, book and poetry festivals. Enjoy the beautiful countryside by taking a stroll along the banks of the River Wye, a hot air balloon ride or a canoe down the river. The charming 'town of books' Hay-on-Wye, the magnificent Black Mountains, unspoilt Brecon Beacons National Park, magnificent Royal Forest of Dean and the Malvern Hills, all make a great day out.