Famed for its timber-framed buildings, Ledbury lies on the western edge of the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is thought to have been established in the late 7th century and was referred to as “Liedeberge” in the 1086 Domesday Book. Ledbury was home to two of England’s most notable poets, Elizabeth Barrett Browning and John Masefield.
Things to do in Ledbury
In the centre of town is Ledbury Park, which is considered one of the finest timber-framed buildings in England. It was constructed in the 17th century on the site of a former palace belonging to the Bishops of Hereford. Now heritage listed, it’s a short stroll from the Barrett Browning Institute, a magnificent Victorian building topped by a clock tower.
Occupying the Old Grammar School is the Ledbury Heritage Centre, which details the development of the town throughout the centuries. Admire the historic panoramas of the High Street and the building’s impressive chimney, then see graffiti from centuries-old school pupils. The on-site gift shop is well stocked with locally made preserves, ceramics and cards.
Ledbury makes an ideal base for exploring the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which encompasses scenic pastures and native woodlands that provide habitat for local wildlife. Don’t miss the British Camp, an Iron Age hill fort believed to have been constructed around the 2nd century BC. Green thumbs can explore the Grade II-listed gardens of Eastnor Castle, a Gothic Revival estate designed by Sir Robert Smirke in the early 19th century.
Getting around Ledbury
Ledbury is around 35 minutes’ drive from Worcester and just over an hour from Birmingham Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Ledbury railway station and the town centre is small enough to explore on foot.