Herefordshire has quietly become one of England’s finest food and drink destinations. Surrounded by orchards, farms and vineyards, the county has earned a reputation for exceptional local produce, award-winning restaurants, traditional country pubs and independent food and drink producers. It’s a place where quality ingredients, warm hospitality and beautiful countryside come together naturally.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, celebrating with friends, gathering the family together or simply spending a few days exploring somewhere new, Scenic Stays Herefordshire places you within easy reach of some of the county’s very best food and drink experiences.
Food isn’t simply something you eat here. It’s woven into Herefordshire’s farming heritage, its landscape and the people who produce it. From ancient cider orchards and vineyards to family-run farm shops and award-winning restaurants, the county offers a food and drink scene that’s authentic, independent and shaped by the countryside around it.
Herefordshire has been producing cider for centuries, with traditional orchards found throughout the county, helping establish it as one of England’s best-known cider and perry regions.
Visit producers including Westons Cider, Oliver’s Cider & Perry and other independent cider makers to discover the cider-making process, enjoy guided tastings or sample locally produced cider in traditional village pubs, often only a few miles from where it was made.
Many guests are surprised by the quality and variety of Herefordshire’s vineyards and independent drinks producers.
Visit Wythall Estate, White Castle Vineyard or Three Choirs Vineyard for guided tours and tastings, discover artisan spirits at Black Mountain Botanicals or Rockfield Distillery. You could even take part in a gin-making experience and create your own bottle to take home.
Food in Herefordshire begins long before it reaches the plate.
Family farms, artisan cheesemakers, local butchers, traditional orchards and independent farm shops all contribute to a thriving food culture built around seasonal produce and local ingredients.
Whether you’re calling into Pengethley Farm Shop to pick up local ingredients for dinner, choosing artisan cheeses and freshly baked bread, or simply browsing one of the county’s many farm shops and farmers’ markets, you’ll quickly discover why Herefordshire has earned such a strong reputation for outstanding food and drink.
Enjoy exceptional dining at Michelin-recognised restaurants including 33 The Homend, The Walnut Tree and The Whitebrook, where seasonal ingredients and creative menus showcase the very best of the region.
Looking for something more relaxed? Enjoy brunch at CSONS or Sensory & Rye, discover award-winning independent restaurants such as The Kilpeck Inn and The New Inn, or visit globally recognised favourites including The Beefy Boys.
For a leisurely lunch, enjoy riverside dining at Ye Old Ferrie Inn or The Saracens Head in Symonds Yat after exploring the Wye Valley, or visit The Riverside Inn or The Hope & Anchor in Ross-on-Wye.
If afternoon tea is more your style, treat yourself at The Angel Hotel in Abergavenny or Castle House Hotel in Hereford, both perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying an indulgent afternoon.
Whether you’re looking for an exceptional tasting menu at Simply Wild, a relaxed brunch, a memorable afternoon tea, a traditional Sunday lunch (many of our guests love The Cottage of Content) or an evening meal, you’ll find something to suit every occasion.
Looking for something beyond a restaurant reservation?
Book a place at Under the Nut Tree, one of Herefordshire’s most sought-after open-fire dining experiences, or enjoy one of Drovers Rest’s renowned South African-inspired braai feasts, where generous sharing platters, seasonal ingredients and cooking over open flames come together to create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Herefordshire’s food scene changes throughout the year. Time your stay to coincide with one of the region’s many food festivals, including the renowned Ludlow Food Festival and Abergavenny Food Festival, both within around an hour of the Scenic Stays Herefordshire collection. Closer to home, Herefordshire also hosts farmers’ markets, cider festivals, open farm events and seasonal food celebrations throughout the year.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed weekend or a week of exploring, you’ll find plenty of inspiration waiting for you.
Rather than simply recommending a handful of places, we’ve personally curated dozens of restaurants, pubs, cafés, vineyards, distilleries, farm shops, food producers and experiences throughout Herefordshire within our Discover the Area section, helping you plan exactly the kind of food and drink break you’re looking for.
A great food and drink break isn’t only about where you eat out. Some of the best moments happen back at your property, whether you’re cooking with local ingredients, sharing a pizza fresh from the oven or lingering around the table long after the meal has finished.
Whether you're preparing breakfast with produce from a local farm shop, cooking a celebration meal or simply enjoying a relaxed supper together, every kitchen has been thoughtfully equipped with everything you'll need. For full details, please see our What's Included section.
Dining Together
From intimate dining for two to generous tables seating up to eighteen guests, every property has been designed to bring people together. Good food has a way of bringing people together, encouraging conversation, laughter and time spent around one table.
Pizza Ovens
Available at Penblaith Barn and Trevase Granary throughout the year, our wood-fired pizza ovens provide a fun way to spend an evening together, whether you're cooking as a family or enjoying a relaxed meal with friends.
Outdoor Dining
Barbecues (available from April to October) and generous outdoor seating make it easy to enjoy long summer evenings with great food and beautiful countryside views.
Slow Mornings
Fresh coffee, no alarm clock and nowhere you need to be. Enjoy breakfast overlooking the countryside before heading out to discover another corner of Herefordshire's food scene - or simply take your time and enjoy another cup.
Why leave the property when some of Herefordshire’s best food and drink experiences can come to you?
Our Property Services section features trusted local suppliers who can deliver memorable food and drink experiences directly to your property, allowing you to relax, celebrate and enjoy great food without going anywhere.
Every property provides an excellent base for exploring Herefordshire’s food and drink scene. Barn Owl Retreat, Peregrine Retreat and Kestrel Retreat are ideal for couples, while Old Barn House, Penblaith Barn and Trevase Granary are perfect for families, celebrations and larger gatherings.
Absolutely. Our Discover the Area guide includes carefully selected restaurants, pubs, cafés, vineyards and food experiences throughout Herefordshire, together with practical information to help you plan your stay. Simply select the property you’re staying in and recommendations are listed in order of distance from your accommodation.
Yes. Wythall Estate, White Castle Vineyard and Three Choirs Vineyard are all within easy reach, offering tours, tastings and opportunities to purchase local wines. Our Discover the Area guide also includes local cider makers, distilleries and other drinks producers.
Yes. Through our Property Services section you can arrange everything from chef-prepared meals delivered before your arrival and private dining experiences to cookery classes, cocktail masterclasses and chocolate workshops at your property.
Yes. Pengethley Farm Shop is one of several excellent farm shops in the area, offering locally produced meat, cheeses, fresh vegetables, baked goods, cider, wine and seasonal produce.
Yes. We recommend booking well in advance for popular restaurants, larger groups and weekends, particularly during the summer months. Many food experiences also have limited availability, so we recommend booking as early as possible.
Several of our properties have excellent country pubs within walking distance, while many more are only a short drive away. Property-specific recommendations, suggested walking routes and driving distances can all be found on the relevant property pages and within our Discover the Area guide.
Whether your perfect break involves vineyard tours, cider makers, award-winning restaurants, traditional country pubs, artisan producers or simply enjoying great food together around one table, Scenic Stays Herefordshire provides the perfect base from which to experience one of England’s finest food and drink destinations.
