A South Herefordshire Food Safari
Explore The Heartlands of Cider Country
The market towns of Ross-on-Wye (perched on a hill above the banks of the river Wye) and Ledbury (filled with cobbled lanes and tiny alleys) serve as excellent basecamps for exploring all the foodie offerings of southern Herefordshire. Of course there's also the thriving city of Hereford itself!
In between bites, you can browse all nature of independent shops, saunter the historic streets or, if you are feeling more active, launch a canoe.
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. This former 16th-Century coaching inn exudes historical charm and offers a menu full of fabulous 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 tranquil English vineyard was planted back in 2010 and produces award-winning still and sparkling wines, thanks in part, to its unique micro-climate. The owners are committed to sustainability, meaning if you take a tasting tour, not only will you learn all about their growing processes but 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 all grown on-site. Enjoy an orchard tour, learn the ins and outs of cidery's rich history and indulge in extensive guided tastings (you might need a nap afterwards!).
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. There’s a butchery too, where you’ll only find meat from local family farms - we’re talking 28-day matured beef from heritage British breeds, grass-fed local lamb and traditionally reared local pork. Oh and their hand-pressed burgers are out of this world.
5. The Ciderologist
If you like cider, you need to meet Gabe Cook - the UKs one and only official Ciderologist. With over 20 years under his belt as a cider maker, judge and advocate, he now runs bespoke tours for groups of all sizes. Get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to world-famous cideries and take a deep dive into the science, culture and heritage of cider through immersive drinking. If you’re lucky, there are often unreleased tastings on offer too. Wassail!
FARM SHOPS, DELIS & CAFES
The Nest at Little Verzons Farm, Ledbury
Best known for: Award-winning Scotch Eggs
Sensory & Rye, Hereford
Best known for: Epic brunches (including loaded waffles...)
PUBS & RESTAURANTS
Hope and Anchor, Ross-on-Wye
Best known for: Stunning riverside location
The Beefy Boys, Hereford
Best known for: Being World Burger Championship Finalists and winners of the National Burger Awards!
ART Restaurants - Leaven Pizza, The Bookshop, Burger Shop, Hereford
Best known for: Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients
EXPERIENCES
Cocktail making at Verzon House, Trumpet, Ledbury
Best known for: A 'farm-to-glass' ethos
Museum of Cider, Hereford
Best known for: Being the world’s only museum dedicated to the county’s most famous tipple
CIDER, WINE & BEYOND
Ross-on-Wye Cider & Perry Co. LTD, Petersow, Ross-on-Wye
Best known for: The vast varieties of apples (100+) and pears (30+) they grow
Ross Wines, Ross-on-Wye
Best known for: It's 17th-century cellar location
Westons Cider Mill, Much Marcle, Ledbury
Best known for: Producing traditional Herefordshire cider since 1880!
Coddington Vineyard, Ledbury
Best known for: Award-winning 'clean, crisp and dry' Bacchus White Wine
Hay Wines, Ledbury
Best known for: A truly unique selection from small, independent producers
Secret Bottle Shop, Ledbury
Best known for: Not being known, shhh!
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