Page 72 - ULTIMATE HEREFORDSHIRE GUIDE 2018

legends generations architecture
Castles &
Historic Houses
medieval great days out events
Envelop yourself in Herefordshire’s theatrical and enthralling history in the very
homes and buildings where it all happened.
Hampton Court Castle
Privately owned and theatrical,
Hampton Court Castle and Gardens at Hope-under-Dinmore was a 15C country house that went on to be castellated in spectacular style. Between visitors it is an exclusive wedding and event venue, staging many of its own public events too. The stunning 12 acre gardens, billed as one of the most ambitious creations of our time, feature an impressive kitchen garden, walled Victorian garden, an underground tunnel that leads to a waterfall and sunken water garden, canals, island pavilions and pleached avenues. Marvel at the blooms of the 150 year old wisteria arch walk and the fragrant rose gardens are prize-winning, on route to the castle’s own puzzle maze and look-out tower.
Hellens Manor
This beautiful historic house in Much Marcle, dates back to the Doomsday Book and is a living monument to much of England’s history. A house tour will visit the haunted rooms, prepared for Bloody Mary Tudor and her tutor Fetherstone and more legendary stories. Now it remains a living home and not a museum, although it contains a wealth of period furnishings, artifacts, paintings and decorations. Hellens also offers accommodation in its converted buildings, and weddings, retreats and courses.
The romantic English garden incorporates a rare 17C octagonal dovecote, a physic garden, a yew labyrinth, a lovely knot garden and rose garden, woodland and ponds, herb and kitchen gardens, and look out for the bee hives from which Hellens’ own honey is made.
Eastnor Castle
The 19C revival castle, built between 1810 and 1824, is grade 1 listed and continues to be inhabited by the Hervey-Bathurst family, descendants of the original owners. It is surrounded by a beautiful arboretum and lake, with richly decorated interiors containing medieval armour, fine art and tapestries. View the fine state rooms including the Great Hall, State Dining Room, Gothic Drawing Room, Octagon Saloon and a number of the opulent bedrooms.
The 300 acre Eastnor Deer Park is where a herd of Red Deer graze freely. Visitors are welcome to walk through the Deer Park, although it is closed in the summer months for the many private events staged there. However the Deer Park Campsite is open for camping on various dates between Easter and September.
Find more castles and historic houses on eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk under our ENJOY category.
70 The ULTIMATE Herefordshire Guide