Nestled in the West Midlands, with its cathedral city of Hereford, the county of Herefordshire is steeped in breathtakingly beautiful greenery, dramatic landscapes and picture-postcard villages.
Bordered by Shropshire to the north, Worcestershire to the east, Gloucestershire to the south-east and Wales to the west, Herefordshire is perfectly located for a rural escape from it all, that can be as relaxing or action packed as you prefer!
And if you’re planning a visit to Herefordshire next year, then the most luxurious of stays can be had at the five star Monnington House in Monnington-on-Wye.
Looking for inspiration for what to do whilst you’re here? Discover 6 of the best reasons to visit Herefordshire in 2020.
1. Engage in meaningful conversation at Hay Festival
Set to run from Thursday 21st-Sunday 31st May in 2020, Hay Festival is the world renowned annual literature festival held in the picturesque market town of Hay-on-Wye in the historic county of Brecknockshire in Wales.
The festival aims to inspire, examine and entertain, and brings together a collective of readers and writers from all over the world, offering the chance to share stories and imagine the world as it could be.
Set against a backdrop of lush green fields, it’s the perfect place to relax, think and breathe in the fresh Welsh air!
2. Rock out at Lakefest
Beginning life as a cider festival, Lakefest in Eastnor Castle Deer Park, Eastnor, Ledbury is fast becoming one of the UK’s top music festivals for families wanting to enjoy a fun day out.
2019 saw bands such as Kaiser Chiefs, James and Happy Mondays headline.
From family yoga to arts and crafts – and not forgetting some of the best bands and DJs around right now – Lakefest offers something for everyone. Dates for 2020 are 13th-16th August and early bird tickets have already sold out!
Day tickets are also available, so once you’re worn out from the day’s activities, head back to Monnington House for some well-deserved rest and recuperation.
3. Enjoy a refreshment at the local beer festival
If you’re looking for a true taste of Herefordshire then don’t miss out on Beer on the Wye XVI, Hereford’s annual beer and cider festival, which is due to be held, for its sixteenth year, over the weekend of 10th-12th July in 2020.
With more than 135 real beers and 130 draught perries and ciders available from breweries throughout the UK, it’s the perfect opportunity to try something new while also enjoying the surroundings of the beautiful Hereford Rowing Club.
4. Find out How The Light Gets In
How The Light Gets In is the world’s largest philosophy and music festival, which promises boundary crossing debate with world-leading speakers alongside a packed programme of music, film and performance in Hay, in the Wye Valley.
Planned for 22nd to the 25th May 2020, this year’s theme is ‘Uncharted Territory’ and promises that “from lab-grown babies to the impact of the Internet, the debates will challenge the very coordinates of what you know.”
Children are also extended a warm welcome: under 12s accompanied by adults have free access to the site. And there are a whole host of games available on-site in a designated children’s play area in the Park, together with live entertainers dotted around the site.
5. Dance the night away to folk music
The Bromyard Folk Festival takes place between the 10th-13th September 2020, and is a fusion of music, drinks, food and fun.
Absolutely everyone is welcome, and in-between the wonderful music acts (2019 saw the likes of Kathryn Tickell and The Darkening headline) you can browse bespoke market stalls for clothes and trinkets you’ll cherish forever.
Dating back to 1968, this family friendly festival’s chilled-out vibe is unrivalled, and the beautiful surroundings only add to its appeal.
6. Spend the day exploring Eastnor Castle
Whichever time of year you choose to visit, Eastnor Castle makes for a wonderful day out.
Surrounded by a beautiful deer park, arboretum, and lake, Eastnor Castle is the home of the Hervey-Bathurst family.
The castle can be found in the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is one of the most stunning stately homes in the UK.
There’s always something going on for the whole family to enjoy, from ChilliFest to the OlympEGG Easter Treasure Hunt.
It’s also one of the only stately homes that allow dogs in both its house and grounds, so your furry friend can enjoy a fun day out, too.
The best place to stay in Herefordshire in 2020
If you are looking for the perfect 5 star holiday rental in Herefordshire, then look no further than Monnington House, in Monnington-on-Wye, just a stone’s throw from Hay-on-Wye and within easy reach of Hereford.
Sleeping up to 18 people in the main house and cottage, Monnington House is perfect for large family groups, reunions, celebrations and holidays.
Alternatively, the house can also be booked on its own to accommodate 12 people.
And new for 2020, we are delighted to announce the refurbishment of The Cider Mill, which will accommodate 6 people in 3 bedrooms and can be booked independently of the main house and cottage.
For further information, please contact Monnington House or call 01672 563571.
