Through Tudor Landscapes
A Herefordshire Journey Inspired by Hamnet
Can you keep a secret? The highly anticipated film adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s critically acclaimed novel, Hamnet (in UK cinemas January 2026) was filmed in Herefordshire!
Directed by Academy Award winner Chloé Zhao, Hamnet was filmed on location in the village of Weobley, at NT Cwmmau Farmhouse, and even features a dip in the River Wye. The setting plays a starring role, and we couldn’t be prouder!
Yearning to reconnect with nature? Channel your inner Agnes and plan a Hamnet-inspired escape to Herefordshire. Surrounded by ancient woodland, sweeping landscapes and architecture untouched by time, you’ll feel a world away.
On these pages, we’ve pulled together the County’s best Shakespearean era offerings. You’ll find;
- An atmospheric walking route from Weobley, the village where filming took place
- A Hamnet Directory, for local places to stay, eat & explore key historical landmarks
- A Herefordshire Reading List, featuring our favourite books with links to the County
Agnes would look to the sky for a sign...
to the trees, to the ground, to the river.
Herefordshire Hits Hollywood
Watch the Hamnet trailer and see our County's stunning scenery and well-preserved architecture bring the world of Tudor England to life.
Weobley to Pembridge
A Hamnet-inspired Walking Trail
If you’re looking to soak up the atmospheric ancient woodland scenes, striking half-timbered houses, and bucolic landscapes depicted in Hamnet, this walking route is for you.
Starting in Weobley, where much of the Hamnet film was shot, this picturesque trail winds across unspoilt green fields, down country lanes and over babbling brooks to take in some of the best-renowned Tudor-era black & white villages in the region, finishing at Pembridge (allow approximately 3.5 hours).
Highlights include:
- Passing through pretty Shakespearean-era villages
- Traversing peaceful pasture fields
- The comforting soundtrack of nature
- A behind-the-scenes look at the scenery that inspired the world of Hamnet
- A well-deserved post-walk lunch at the nearby Cider Barn
Sleep Under Beams
For the full half-timbered, Hamnet-inspired experience, sleep under the beams in the very house that depicted Hewlands in the film: Cwmmau Farmhouse (owned by the National Trust). Herefordshire is full of places to stay that are creaking with character and quirky historic charm. From iconic black and white cottages, to cosy B&B's to welcoming country inns, here's our guide to the most authentic places to stay for an unforgettable Tudor-feel getaway.
Step Back to Shakespeare's Time
A Hamnet-Inspired Herefordshire Directory
16th Century Painted Room, Ledbury
Tucked away down a cobbled street in historic Ledbury is Number One Church Street, one of the oldest timber-framed houses in the town. Hidden in an upstairs room, it holds an exquisite Elizabethan treasure - some of the best surviving examples of wall painting from the era, dating back to around the 1560s. If you’re visiting before April you’ll need to book ahead of time!
The Green Dragon Hotel, Hereford
This hotel is one of the oldest in the country, and its Garrick Lounge Bar has a little-known Shakespearean connection. The bar is named after David Garrick, the well-renowned actor-manager who single-handedly revived the works of William Shakespeare in the 18th Century. Born in nearby Widemarsh Street in 1717, he grew up in Hereford’s old medieval city. The perfect excuse to raise a toast to the Bard.
NT Brockhampton, Bromyard
This 687-hectare estate boasts 600 years of history. At its heart stands a romantic 14th Century timber-framed house complete with moat and Tudor gatehouse. Plan time to explore the surrounding orchards, woodlands, and parkland. Don't miss the second-hand bookshop on site; you might even find a copy of The Complete Works of Shakespeare…
Hedgerow Medicine, Putley
Central to the tale of Hamnet is Agnes, Shakespeare's wife, and her deep-rooted connection to nature as a skilled herbalist and homoeopath. In her garden sanctuary at Hewlands, she grew intricate combinations of plants for healing remedies and poultices. Join a workshop with Rowan McOnegal (a qualified herbalist with over 30 years' experience) to channel your inner Agnes and learn the power of plant-based medicine first hand.
Old House, Hereford
Standing proudly in the heart of Hereford City centre is this beautifully preserved, iconic 17th Century timber-framed house. Step inside the Black and White House Museum, and discover a captivating glimpse into what day-to-day Jacobean life was really like. You'll find a series of re-created rooms, curated everyday objects and even replica clothing from the era (if you’ve got kids in tow, they’ll love a try on!). Fun for all the family!
Williams Handmade, Knapton
It is widely known that Shakespeare's father was a leather glove maker, so what better way to immerse yourself in his family history than to try your hand at working on a project with real leather. Your workshop tutor teaches leather skills at universities and on a one or two day course, you can choose to make anything from a leather belt, to a satchel or a leather apron. All courses are beginner friendly and set in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Hellen's Manor, Much Marcle
Hailed by Country Homes Magazine as 'The jewel in the crown of Herefordshire homes', this much loved Tudor/Jacobean manor is a living monument to much of England’s history. Attractions from the Shakespearean era include heirlooms of Anne Boleyn and the haunted bed chamber prepared for Queen Mary Tudor! Plus there are glorious gardens to explore and a tea room to indulge in.
Grange Court, Leominster
This Grade II listed market house built by the ‘Kings Carpenter’, John Abel, has a fascinating 400-year history. Initially a thriving butter market, it was dismantled and lay unused for many years, until being meticulously rebuilt and turned into a family home. These days it’s hired out as a working space, wedding venue, and community hub, complete with cafe and stunning walled gardens.
The Feathers Hotel, Ledbury
If walls could talk at this 400-year-old traditional coaching inn, we’d be privy to a fascinating tale or two. Blending Tudor-era charm and character with boutique style and all the mod cons (smart TVs and espresso machines) makes this the ideal spot to rest your weary head during your Hamnet-inspired Herefordshire escape.
Cast & Crew Approved Coffee
Swing by The Green Bean Cafe in Weobley for a flat-white and there's a chance you could be sipping from the very same cup as Paul Mescal himself. It was a favoured hangout with cast and crew during Hamnet filming.
Ledbury, a Tudor Gem
These cobbled streets have plenty for history enthusiasts, from the unusual black and white stilted Market House, to The Heritage Centre, all housed in beautiful timber-framed buildings. Mooch around the indie shops and grab a pint at the characterful The Feathers Hotel.
Black & White Villages
North Herefordshire's Black & White Villages are an absolute delight. Peppered with picture-perfect half-timbered architecture, they're gorgeous to tour, be it on foot, by bike or by car. Along the way you’ll stumble across cosy pubs and tea rooms, art galleries, village shops riverside picnic spots.
