Wet weather activities in Herefordshire?

[that1970shouse]

I'm seeking some local knowledge. I'm going away for a few days next week, staying not far from Leominster, so need some things to do in that area of north Herefordshire, southern Shropshire and eastern Powys. I'll be on my own, no children in tow. I'm interested in general sightseeing picturesque villages, scenic landscapes, historical places, wildlife and nature, anything quirky. Also interested in recommendations for restaurants (where I won't feel too uncomfortable dining alone), tea rooms etc. I wouldn't quite say cost is no object, but the break is a treat for myself so I'd be prepared to push the boat out a bit.

The main problem is that most of the general bumbling around I do is only fun in nice weather so, as it's forecast to rain most days, where should I go? I wasn't wanting to go as far south as Hereford but I guess the cathedral might be good for a wet afternoon.

Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

Hereford cathedral is worth the trip, the chained library is something else.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croft-castle-and-parkland Croft castle, interesting place, great gardens, tea room of COURSE.

Thanks - love your username btw!

Despite not particularly wanting to go to Hereford on this trip I expect I will end up there one day.

Hopefully the weather will be kind to you, the landscapes when not shrouded in mist and murk are superb.

Its mostly outdoors kind of stuff around this area. Ludlow is a good market town especially if you're a bit of a foodie. Clun is tiny but it has some castle ruins but there's a lovely little cafe on the bridge called Postcard Cafe - does great cake. The Spaceguard Centre is just outside Knighton if you're into the astronomy stuff I think you still have book to visit. I like mooching around the antique stores in Leominster but beware most are closed on a Sunday. There's a nice National Trust visitor's centre at the Carding Mill Valley in Church Stretton. Hay-on-Wye is my favourite just for looking around all the book shops. The castle has just reopened and its free to get in.

If the weather is dry enough, the Arboretum at Queenswood just south of Leominster is stunning at the moment. They have a huge collection of maples, oaks and redwoods I was there this weekend and the autumn colours on the trees are just beautiful.

@BamBamBilla Some good suggestions; thank you very much.

Not sure if this is too far but the Hop Pocket in Bishop's Frome is a nice crafty lunchy place for browsing on a wet day. The Ludlow Food Centre is a nice place for lunch and fancy food shopping. Weobley and Pembridge are pretty black & white villages for pottering.

Crafty lunchy place sounds just me! Off to check the map for Bishop's Frome.

Looks like there are quite a few National Trust places in the wider area, so that may well be me sorted.

Where can I park the if going to Hereford (with the main intention of visiting the cathedral)?

There's lots of carparks but they are all 5-10 mins walk away from the Cathedral - one at the swimming pool (Wye St carpark) is probably closest and you get a pretty walk either over the Old Bridge or through bishops meadow and across Victoria bridge.

Thank you; sounds lovely.