Castles, Abbeys and Cathedrals of Herefordshire

From the rich and intricate Norman carvings of Kilpeck Church to the Gothic ruins of Tintern Abbey, this tour explores the power and piety of the medieval Marches. Discover mighty castles at Raglan, Chepstow and Goodrich, and uncover sacred heritage in Hereford, Gloucester – home to great cathedrals and their remarkable treasures.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival
Arrive independently from 15:00. Welcome drink, dinner, and talk by Julian Humphrys.

Day 2: Tretower Court and Tintern Abbey
Begin with a visit to Tretower Court, a beautifully preserved medieval manor house. Explore its atmospheric great hall and gardens, offering a glimpse into noble life in the 15th century. Continue to beautiful Tintern Abbey, nestled in the Wye Valley. Founded in 1131, its Gothic ruins evoke the spiritual grandeur of medieval monastic life. Enjoy time to wander the abbey grounds in its riverside setting. Evening talk by Nicola Tallis.

Day 3: Goodrich Castle, Kilpeck, and Hereford Cathedral
Morning visit to Goodrich Castle, a striking Norman fortress overlooking the River Wye. Discover its turbulent history and climb the towers for panoramic views. Next, visit the Church of St Mary and St David in Kilpeck, famed for its rare Norman carvings and peaceful rural setting. Conclude the day at Hereford Cathedral, home to the Mappa Mundi and the Chained Library—treasures of medieval scholarship and cartography.

Day 4: Gloucester Cathedral and Chepstow Castle
Visit the magnificent Gloucester Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with royal tombs and cloisters.. Then visit Chepstow Castle, one of Britain’s oldest surviving stone fortresses. Return to the hotel by 17:00.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager's discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 40 passengers.

INCLUDED

• Three nights' accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at a handpicked hotel, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• First night welcome drink and talk by Julian Humphrys
• Talk by Nicola Tallis
• 3 dinners
• All talks, guided tours and admissions as per the itinerary
• Coach touring as per the itinerary
• Expert guides Julian Humphrys and Nicola Tallis throughout the tour

NOT INCLUDED

• Transport to the hotel is not included
• Double for sole use supplement - £195
• Extra nights on bed and breakfast basis 
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc 
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Handpicked Accommodation

You will stay in a handpicked hotel which will provide a clean and comfortable base which is well located for this wonderful itinerary.