Walks for Wine Lovers
Discover three scenic walking routes complete with vineyard pit stops
Herefordshire, long celebrated for its heritage rooted in apples and hops, is fast becoming a hotspot on the English wine scene. It turns out the unique terrain is perfect for growing grapes too. Join us on three Wine Walks through stunning countryside to sample award-winning wines directly from the vineyards in which they were made. What more incentive do you need? Those walking boots are calling...
Wye wanders
Hike around this beautiful Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, following short sections of the Wye Valley Walk to reach Wythall Estate Vineyard. Set in a secluded spot, with rolling hills all around, the vineyard benefits from its own unique micro-climate. Book a tour to find out how the team harnesses its terrain and uses low-intervention methods to produce award-winning wines, followed by a tutored tasting in their stunning sixteenth-century half-timbered Manor House.
Follow the Frome River
Standing on the banks of the River Frome at Paunton, Frome Valley Vineyard is surrounded by orchards, hop yards and rolling meadows. One of the first vineyards to be established in the county, this walk starts and finishes here. This circular route takes you through hop yards and cider orchards to a trig point with superb views to the Malvern Hills. Return through the vines for a well-earned tour and tasting at the cellar door.
Lush landscapes
Take in two intimate, country churches before coming to Coddington Vineyard, a most beautiful spot, a few miles from the buzzy market town of Ledbury. Starting in the village of Colwall, the trail traverses rich farming landscape with traditional hop kilns dotted around. After a tasting and lunch in the delightful gardens at the family-run Coddington Vineyard, the route continues past the former home of poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Pause on Oyster Hill to soak up the fabulous views.
Historic Vines
In 1276, the Bishop of Hereford recorded in his 'Red Book' the planting of vines on the south-facing slopes of Ledbury. These early, ecclesiastical vines marked the beginning of a long and remarkable connection between the land that we now care for, and fantastic wines.
With the same unique microclimate and amazing soils of the 13th century, vines have been reintroduced, and the passion for growing grapes to create amazing wine continues to evolve. Starting at Ledbury's Market Hall, 1276 Wines is just a 40-minute walk west of the town centre. After a tour and tasting, continue the walk (or cycle) out into the countryside, along the Herefordshire Trail.
