In the heart of Herefordshire

Midday
Begin your day by discovering ‘Capability’ Brown’s last landscape park. Berrington Hall is located only three miles north of Leominster. Beautifully set above a wide valley, with sweeping views to the Brecon Beacons, this elegant Henry Holland house was built in the late 18th century. Despite a rather austere exterior, the house has a stunning interior with beautifully decorated ceilings (by Biaggio Rebecca) and a spectacular staircase hall.

Lunch?
When you have visited the house, explore the stunning landscape and beautiful gardens. Enjoy lunch in the restaurant before leaving for Croft Castle only four miles away.

Afternoon
Croft Castle presents a unique view of a historic country mansion, surrounded by an expansive park offering tranquil walks and views over the once turbulent border marches.

Croft Castle is a fascinating mixture of stunning scenery and architectural history. There has been a dwelling on this site since before the Doomsday Survey of 1086. Visitors also have the opportunity to visit the archaeological exhibition that illustrates archaeological findings from digs in 2001, 2002 and 2003.

The house has been added to during its history and now consists of walls and towers from the 16th century that surround an 18th-century courtyard. The varied history provides the house with a unique atmosphere; it has been home to the Croft family for nearly all of its 500-year history.

The wider estate offers a wide range of walks and you can finish your visit to Croft with light refreshments in the tea-room.

Extra day?
If you are staying in Herefordshire for the weekend, you should also visit The Weir Garden, an unusual 1920s garden created by Roger Parr. This garden is stunning in the spring with snowdrops, daffodils, chionodoxa and scilla italica.

There is also the Brockhampton Estate. Located only two miles from Bromyard, Brockhampton offers something for everyone, from walks through the ancient woodlands to the sculpture trail. At the heart of Brockhampton lies Lower Brockhampton, a late 14th-century moated manor house with a beautiful timber-framed gatehouse.

Berrington Hall, Croft Castle and Brockhampton Estate all have charming holiday cottages offering tranquil and relaxing breaks. For more information call the booking line on 0870 4584422 or visit the National Trust Holiday Cottages website.

When can you go?
Before visiting a property, we strongly advise that you check its opening times, as properties open on different days and at different times. This information is detailed on the individual property pages, which you can search for by finding a place to visit.

• Berrington Hall
• Croft Castle
• The Weir and Lower Brockhampton