Ynys Hut

If you’re into history, there’s plenty to pique your interest hereabouts; there are fairytale castles to explore at Ludlow (an hour’s drive), standing on a promontory over the River Tame, and well-preserved medieval Goodrich (25 minutes). It’s the Georgian lakeside confection of Eastnor Castle (40 minutes) that gets the prize for the most romantic spot, however, tucked into the foot of the Malvern Hills. The Waterworks Museum - Hereford (20 minutes) showcases the story of our water supply and steam power, while the Dean Heritage Centre (45 minutes) sits by pretty Soudley Brook and has a museum of industrial heritage, a small mine and walks along the waterside. Going further back in time, you can hike up to Arthur’s Stone (35 minutes), a neolithic burial chamber with splendid views over the Malvern Hills. Other popular hikes include the yomp up Sugar Loaf (40 minutes) over the Welsh border in the Black Mountains, or a shorter, gentler route up to the landmark stand of trees atop May Hill (35 minutes).