The Heartlands of Cider Country
A South Herefordshire Food Safari
This quaint market town of Ross-on-Wye is perched on a hill above the banks of the river Wye and serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring Herefordshire cider country. In between bites, you can browse independent shops, saunter the historic streets or, if you are feeling more active, launch a canoe.
Your "Big Five" Foodie Sightings
1. The New Inn
Named Herefordshire Tourism Awards pub of the year in 2024, a better cosy local serving top notch nosh you will not find. Celebrating the rich farming heritage of rural Herefordshire, this former 16th-Century coaching inn offers a menu packed with local flavours and seasonal ingredients. Expect a warm welcome whatever the season.
2. Wythall Estate Vineyard Tours & Tastings
Nestled in the Wye Valley AONB, this stunningly tranquil English vineyard was planted in 2010. Its unique micro-climate produces award-winning still and sparkling wines. The owners are committed to sustainability, meaning if you take a tasting tour, not only will you learn all about their growing process, you’ll see meandering streams and hedgerows brimming with life along the way. Plus it’s all set against the backdrop of a charming 16th-century manor.
3. Ross-on-Wye Cider & Perry Company
This multi-award-winning cidery, established on a 130 year old family farm, is a must-visit for cider buffs. They offer over fifty handcrafted ciders and perries, made from more than 100 apple and 30 pear varieties grown on-site. Visitors can enjoy orchard tours, learn the cidery's rich history and indulge in extensive guided tastings for a truly immersive culinary experience.
4. Pengethley Farm Shop
This place is a treasure trove of Herefordshire's finest produce. From farm-fresh fruit and veg to an incredible selection of local cheeses to straight-out-the-oven baked goods. And then there’s the butchery where you’ll only find meat from local family farms - we’re talking 28-day matured beef from traditional British breeds, grass-fed local lamb and traditionally reared local pork. Oh and their traditional hand-pressed burgers are out of this world.
5. The Ciderologist
If you like cider, we think you need to meet Gabe Cook - the UKs one and only official Ciderologist. With over 20 years under his belt as cider maker, judge and advocate he runs bespoke tours offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access to world-famous cideries (and if you’re lucky there’ll even be some unreleased tastings on offer…). Accommodating groups of any size you’ll delve deep into the science, culture and heritage of cider through immersive drinking. Wassail!
Beyond Base Camp
If you fancy a day venturing a bit further afield, head over to Hereford to visit the world's only Museum of Cider and stop off for lunch at the Beefy Boys for a world-class smash burger. Or take a jaunt over to the stunning village of Kilpeck and grab a table at The Kilpeck Inn, offering one of the finest locally sourced menus around (it’s also Michelin Guide recommended!). There's also Evolutionary Winery, proud members of Sustainable Wines of Great Britain. They offer wine tasting tours (and delectable food pairings) at their truly historic vineyard, which dates back to 1276. Self-guided tours are also available.
Discover places to stay near Ross on Wye here
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