Description
The ancient cathedral city of Hereford is really no more than a market town, set in a peaceful rural landscape of farms, orchards and half-timbered villages. It grew up on the River Wye on the border of Wales, a garrison protecting the Saxons from the Welsh tribes. With the Malvern Hills to the east, and the wilder mountains of mid-Wales to the west, it makes a fascinating base for touring through some delightful countryside.
Itinerary
Tour Highlights:
Ludlow • Hay-on-Wye • Scenic Wye Valley • Forest of Dean • Symonds Yat • Tintern • Offa’s Dyke Welsh Borderlands
Full Day
A full day tour starting with a visit to the beautiful old town of Ludlow with its riot of black and white half-timbered buildings - nearly 500 are listed - and a huge 11th century castle, much of which still stands. Then it’s across the line of Offa’s Dyke, constructed in the 8th century to mark the border with Wales, for a stop in the eccentric little town of Hay-on-Wye, which is the second-hand book ‘capital’ of Britain, and has its own ‘King’!
Full Day
On our second full day tour we follow the River Wye southwards past Ross-on-Wye into the Forest of Dean, to admire the view at Symonds Yat with a great loop of the river far below. From the handsome border town of Monmouth we reach the most scenic stretch of the Wye Valley, halting at Tintern, where the 14th century ruined Abbey has a beautiful setting.
Venue Information
Green Dragon Hotel - Hereford
THIS FORMER COACHING inn is situated in the heart of the city just 200 yards from the imposing Norman Cathedral. The hotel enjoys a warm and traditional atmosphere, with a comfortable lounge, elegant restaurant and cocktail bar. All bedrooms feature private facilities, television, hairdryer, telephone and tea and coffee making facilities. • Full breakfast and three course evening dinner plus tea or coffee • Lift