Herefordshire Histories Festival
10th - 18th May 2025
You're invited to unlock our county's rich, remarkable heritage
History enthusiasts unite! This May, the inaugural Herefordshire Histories Festival will host over 100 events right across the county.
From captivating talks, tours and exhibitions to exclusive access at landmarks rarely open to the public, don’t miss your chance to explore Herefordshire's fascinating, varied (often untold) past, like never before.
Our Top 8 Hitlist
With so many unique events spanning diverse historical eras, we've handpicked our top eight (one for each day of the festival, it wasn't easy!) to spark your curiosity and simplify planning. There truly is something for everyone, so be sure to check out the full schedule.
1. An Ode to the Timeless Watermill
Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th May 2pm - 5pm | Clodock Mill
Set on the banks of the blissfully serene river Monnow, there is evidence of a mill having been on the site at Clodock in AD1241 - that’s almost 800 years of corn grinding history waiting for you to discover! At this living history event, expect to see first hand the power of water turning the millstones and wonder at how this ancient machinery still works like clockwork today, thanks to dedicated restoration work which began in 2001.
Several other traditional watermills across Herefordshire will be open to visitors to celebrate National Mill Weekend.
2. Whispers of the Knights Templar
Sunday 11th - Sunday 18th May | St Michael's Church Garway (tours on request)
Founded in 1180 after a royal gift from Henry II, the round foundations of this ancient church still whisper tales of the powerful Knights Templar order. There are a host of medieval treasure to be unearthed during a tour from ancient coffin lids still in situ, to intriguing carvings inside and out and even a money chest hewn from a single tree secured with three locks! Expect to leave with a host of new facts about this fascinating enigmatic order.
3. Spotlight on Brian Hatton
Monday 12th May - 7.30pm | Breinton Village Hall
Whilst Herefordshire may be famed for its bucolic landscapes and agricultural prowess you might not yet be familiar with the local artist who truly captured the county's essence via the medium of illustration.
Join Robin Thorndyke for a special evening, "The Harrow and The Plough," celebrating Brian Hatton's beautiful pre-WWI paintings of the horse-powered agricultural world. Expect a fascinating, intimate look into a relatively unsung local talent.
4. Behind the scenes at Hay Castle
Tuesday 13th, Wednesday 14th & Thursday 15th May - 11.00am - 12.00 pm | Hay Castle
Perched above the charming border town of Hay-on-Wye stands its painstakingly restored 12th century castle. Steeped in history, the castle has seen various transformations over the centuries, from medieval fortress to beloved family home. On a tour of Hay Castle through the ages with Director Tom True, you can expect to meet a lineup of colourful characters from its rich past and gain his personal insights from three years at its helm.
5. Guided Canal Walk
Thursday 15th May - 10.00am & 1.30pm | Yarkhill Village Hall
Explore the picturesque towpath of the Herefordshire & Gloucestershire Canal on a guided walk.
You’ll take in striking vistas of the Herefordshire landscape, seemingly untouched in centuries. Expect your guide to bring the history of the canal and surrounding countryside to life on this gentle circular route.
6. Historic Building Mythbusting
Wednesday 14th May - 7pm | Conquest Theatre, Bromyard
Join award-winning building archaeologist James Wright for an evening of historical mythbusting.
We've all been hooked by stories of ancient buildings – secret passage networks, blocked church doors to keep out the devil, ubiquitous "oldest pub" claims – but where do these tall tales come from and why do they endure? James explores the origins of these common myths and uncovers the fascinating truths hidden behind them. Expect to be amazed and leave with stories to share.
7. A Walk Through History
Friday 16 May - 10.30am – 3.00pm | Snodhill Castle
Starting at the evocative ruins of Snodhill Castle, this guided walk explores the rich history and stunning landscape of the Golden Valley.
Accompanied by an expert local historian, you’ll journey along paths once used by estate workers and hear captivating tales of the castle's past, all set against the backdrop of panoramic views stretching towards the Black Mountains beyond. This circular route is seven miles long, across hilly farmland, old lanes and scenic footpaths. Expect to walk away feeling truly immersed in Herefordshire history.
8. Festival Finale Fun
Sunday 18th May 11am – 3pm | Herefordshire Community Farm
Head to the Herefordshire Community Farm on the final day of the festival where there’ll be a host of FREE activities on offer. Expect Viking reenactments, calligraphy taster sessions,campfire cooking, crafty activities, farm animals encounters and loads more. Pack a picnic, bring the family, make a day of it (we’ll see you there!).
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It is the ‘Hereford way’ to spread the news by word of mouth, so please tell others about the Festival. With your help we will get thousands of people out having a dose of local history, and hopefully with some sunshine too.
