Let’s celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Herefordshire and its fascinating museums and art galleries. Brilliant for family days out, many of these institutes also play a vital role in unlocking knowledge, fostering education and promoting research, and are so worth a visit when you are staying or visiting Herefordshire.
The Waterworks Museum
The Waterworks Museum in Hereford is a captivating celebration of water engineering. Housed in a historic Victorian pumping station, it features over 50 working machines, including the UK’s oldest triple expansion steam engine. On selected Sundays, visitors can experience steam-driven engines in action. The museum also offers an interactive water themed play area for children. Don’t miss the café and shop for treats and souvenirs. Explore this hidden gem and discover the fascinating world of water technology. 2024 celebrates 50 years of this intriguing museum.
Grange Court
Grange Court is a Grade II listed timber-framed market hall and was built by John Abel in 1633. Originally known as the Butter Crosse, it stood at the top of Broad Street in Leominster, hosting the weekly butter market. In the mid-19C, it was dismantled, moved and later rebuilt on the current park known as the Grange. John Arkwright, of the spinning jenny family, played a role in its relocation. Over the years, Grange Court served as a family home, council offices, and more. Today, it stands as a Community, Heritage, and Enterprise Hub, sharing its rich history through interactive displays and an innovative tablet tour.
The Black & White House
The Black and White House Museum is a 17C timber-framed gem, nestled in the heart of Hereford City, which has recently reopened and undergone refurbishment. Its Jacobean half-timbered architecture exudes magnificence, and the interior is meticulously furnished in period style. Originally built in 1621, it has witnessed the comings and goings of butchers, saddlers, and bankers. Step inside to explore rooms that offer a glimpse into daily life during the 17C, from fashion and dining to bedrooms. Learn about the city’s history, including its role during the Civil War. Families can enjoy hands-on activities and, for those who can’t climb stairs, a virtual tour awaits on the fully accessible ground floor, complete with Braille and tactile images for the visually impaired.
W: herefordshire.gov.uk/history-lives/hereford-museums-art-gallery
Hereford Cathedral
Hereford Cathedral has roots dating back to at least the 8C and has a rich and fascinating history, as well as home to The Mappa Mundi. Created around 1300, the Mappa Mundi is the only surviving complete medieval world map and has been housed here for centuries. It’s both an intricate map and a pictorial encyclopaedia of the medieval world.
Hereford Cathedral’s Chained Library is a unique treasure in Britain’s library history. It predates the modern concept of libraries. The system of chaining books was widespread and effective in European libraries from the Middle Ages to the 18th century. The Chained Library houses 229 medieval manuscripts. All books are kept under lock and key with intact chains, rods, and locks. The specially designed chamber allows visitors to see the library in its original arrangement from 1611 to 1841 while maintaining controlled environmental conditions.
Today, Hereford Cathedral continues to be a vibrant centre of worship, learning, and heritage, welcoming visitors to explore its architectural marvels and spiritual treasures with lots on offer for all ages:
The Café Mundi is located in the atmospheric 15C Bishop’s Cloister and offers a wide range of snacks, lunches and cakes.
Discover history and treasures with the Cathedral Guides at 11:05 am and 2:15 pm daily on the Cathedral Tour.
Climb 218 steps on the Tower Tour for stunning views of the city, county, and beyond.
Explore the Cathedral Gardens on Saturdays and Wednesdays (June to September).
Look out for Music and Events including concerts, silent discos and Jazz music in the Chapter House Garden.
W: https://www.herefordcathedral.org/
Hereford City Heritage Suite
Hereford Heritage Suite, situated in Hereford Town Hall, is a remarkable venue dedicated to the celebration and preservation of the City’s rich historical legacy. This suite features a collection of exhibits that highlight the town’s significant events, prominent figures, and architectural marvels including the original Charters bestowed by King Richard 1 that gave Hereford its City status, a vast collection of historic silver, ceremonial swords and the Hereford City Crest. Guided tours are offered free of charge on Wednesdays.
W: herefordcitycouncil.gov.uk/hereford-citys-heritage-suite
Museum of Cider
The Museum of Cider in Hereford is a unique institution dedicated to the history and tradition of cider-making in the region. Housed in a former cider factory, the museum offers an extensive collection of cider-related artifacts, including vintage presses, bottles, and advertisements. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that detail the cider production process, from apple cultivation to fermentation. The museum also delves into the social and cultural impact of cider in Herefordshire and beyond. With tastings of various ciders and an on-site shop, the Museum of Cider provides an engaging and flavourful journey through the rich heritage of this beloved beverage.
Old Chapel Gallery
Old Chapel Gallery in Pembridge, serves as a centre of excellence for British contemporary arts and crafts. Established in 1989, the gallery showcases reputable local and nationally known artists and makers alongside innovative work from talented newcomers. Visitors can explore and purchase a wide range of handmade fine arts and crafts, textiles, sculptures and more from emerging and established creators.
Hellens Manor
Hellens Manor is a cherished Tudor/Jacobean home, rich in stories, characters, art, and furniture, with a history dating back to 1057. One of England’s oldest historic homes, it features heirlooms of Anne Boleyn, a haunted bed chamber for Queen Mary Tudor, a Music Room with an English Renaissance frieze, and paintings by Gainsborough, Van Dyke, Burne-Jones, and Goya. The grounds, designed in Tudor and Jacobean styles, are dog-friendly and include a yew labyrinth, octagonal dovecote, physic garden, knot garden, and views of the Malvern Hills. Covering 150 acres, the grounds boast ancient woodland and wildflower meadows, showcasing daffodils, orchids, anemones, and bluebells in spring.
For more fantastic places to visit and discover Herefordshire’s fascinating heritage visit our website eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk/live