The Brecon Beacons stretch east into our part of Herefordshire, mountainous and dramatic. Fiercely contested with the Welsh over centuries, the land is riddled with historic castles and sturdy farmsteads, and the culture is rich.

Known as ‘the lungs of the West Midlands’, Herefordshire is also accessible – 1½ hours from Bristol and Birmingham, 3 hours from London. It is ideal for gathering clans, and also for short breaks when time is too precious to spend driving far.

Herefordshire is England’s most rural county; they say every crop is grown here. It has been at the forefront of the food revival with among the best Food Festivals, farmers’ markets and farm shops in Britain. Local ciders recommended!

This locality has many footpaths, characterful free-house pubs and ruins. It has a rugged, unspoilt quality. Across the valley and visible from your windows is the Cat’s Back, a most spectacular ridge walk, while Hay-on-Wye, with its book shops, literary festival and lively shopping scene is our local town, and sits on the best stretch of canoeing river in Britain.