3 Days of Exceptional Eats

Tait's rural foodie adventure kicked off en route to his first night's accommodation, with a strategic stop at Hopes of Longtown, a village shop like no other (it has to be seen to be believed!) to stock up on local goodies.

Lunch was next on the agenda, just a short cycle down the road at The Bull's Head, Craswall, an old drovers inn with a remarkable menu. The Rhubarb soda and goats cheese starter was a must, followed by a mouth-watering lunchtime special: wood-fired hogget leg with spring vegetables and wild garlic.

Then it was over to Black Mountains Roast (a small-batch coffee roasters) just up the road in the village of Michaelchurch Escley for a tour and tasting.

The day culminated at the ‘boutique hotel immersed in nature’ that is Kaya at Blackhill Farm luxury glamping. Tait enjoyed cooking over an open fire, followed by a blissful bubble bath under the stars, all set against the backdrop of the Black Mountains.

The second day started with an e-bike tour and tasting at the beautiful White Heron Estate. Owner Jo Hilditch guided Tait through the sprawling vineyards and apple orchards, sharing the farm’s rich history. They sampled delicious sparkling wines and Cassis, followed by a lunch of local meats and cheeses, overlooking the vines at a stunning ‘feasting’ table.

Next it was time to check-in at The Kilpeck Inn, renowned for its cosy rooms, welcoming log fires, a vast selection of local ales and ciders and of course, a locally sourced, seasonal menu.

Before hitting the hay, Tait enjoyed a truly unique dinner just ten minutes down the road at Under the Nut Tree, Kentchurch. This magical spot offers an array of grilled meats and veggies on a set menu, cooked over open flames. Guests are invited to dine al-fresco under a giant hazelnut tree (there's an indoor option too, if the weather isn't playing ball) and it’s BYOB, which is always fun.

For the final leg of his Herefordshire Food Safari, Tait took a walking tour around Ross Cider, learning the history of the Johnson family's dedication to cultivating rare apple varieties and enjoying a tipple of their historic cider, made continuously since the 1930s.

Next up was The Riverside at Aymestrey, a historic 16th-century restaurant and inn for 'the best Sunday roast of his life’, which included a wild garlic Yorkshire pudding and magnolia ice cream for dessert - wow. 

The adventure concluded with one last night under the starry dark skies, staying in the Stargrazers Wagon at Herefordshire Hideaways.