Ledbury - Wellington Heath - Ledbury

Sean Meek

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Ledbury is a picturesque market town with a staggering array of black and white heritage buildings. The 17th Century black and white Market House, where the walk starts, originally served as a grain store dominating the town centre. It is raised on 16 massive timber columns to create an open arcaded market under cover. The upper chamber is used by the local council but twice-weekly markets are still held at ground floor level. It was in this very spot in 1645 that a battle took place between Parliamentary troops and Cavaliers supporting the king, with the Royalists eventually prevailing.

The walk leaves the town towards Dog Hill, but before doing so, you will walk up what must be one of the best-preserved medieval street scenes anywhere in the UK, then past the church, with its 200-foot spire that is detached from the rest of the church. After leaving Ledbury, the walk heads for Wellington Heath via Dog Hill, so called because it is popular with dog-walkers. But it also has a fascinating geological history, as you will cross a fault line, with red sandstone to the east and Wenlock limestone to the west. You will pass an old quarry along the path and if you are lucky, you may spot a fossil in one of the loose rocks.

You may want to stop for a drink, or lunch at The Farmer's Arms in Wellington Heath, before heading back to Ledbury. Much of the return route is in woodland as you reach the top of Dog Hill.

England - Central England - Herefordshire - Malvern Hills