Bromyard has long been recognised as the ‘centre’ of many things and not least among that list is the wonderful subject of ‘food and drink’. It is widely accepted that more people enjoy eating and drinking out than at any other time previously, a trend that seems set to continue. So what does Bromyard and its immediate surroundings have to offer in the way of refreshment? The answer is a good variety to suit most tastes, and this situation seems to improve as the seasons change.

This hidden county of Herefordshire, with its traditional high hedges, compact fields and apple orchards offers more than just beautiful scenery and secluded lanes. The area is so fertile that many eating houses are proud to acknowledge that the majority of their supplies are locally produced.

Our local butchers deserve a mention as not only do they serve excellent locally reared meats, including the famous Hereford beef, but their sausages, pies and other locally produced meat products are well worth sampling. So good is the reputation of our meat purveyors that Bromyard is a regular stop-off for a coach of shoppers from the West Midlands. Some of the butchers have diversified and now run a delicatessen alongside the traditional butchers shop. Local cheeses such as Bromyard Blue, Hereford Hop and Bromyard Brie can be found in such outlets.

What may come as a (pleasant) surprise to many is that the area supports a number of fine vineyards. English wines have been improving year upon year and compete very well indeed with foreign wines and our local growers are justly proud of their own fine range. The wine connoisseur would not be disappointed with what our local growers have to offer. Within a small radius of Bromyard there are five vineyards and should the net be spread a little wider four more would be brought in. Some of our local vineyards are Frome Valley at Bishops Frome, Bodenham Wines at Bodenham and Coddington Vineyard near Ledbury.

From wine to that other ‘staple’ of the working man, fine ales and also, in Bromyard’s case, fine ciders and perries. Being in Herefordshire one couldn’t overlook the noble cider apple and pear. The area has a history of producing some of the best cider in Britain and the two large scale producers of cider, Weston’s and Bulmers are internationally known institutions. They are the ‘big boys’ of the cider world but there are many ‘little men’ whose offerings are just as high in quality but with probably a greater variety and many of these producers are local. There’s Butford Farm at Bodenham, Newton Court near Leominster and Knight’s Cider at Storridge all producing fine ciders and perries. One can visit these producers and sample what’s on offer but caution is advised as Herefordshire cider could become addictive! Many of these drinks (and indeed produce) can be sourced locally at the Hop Pocket, near Bishop’s Frome.

Ales must not be left out as Bromyard has a fine brewery right on its doorstep. The prize winning Wye Valley Brewery at Stoke Lacy produces a regular range of fine quality beers and some exceptional “special” beers for various events and seasons. One of the pubs that the brewery owns is right here in the town, The Rose and Lion (The Rosie). Bromyard supports a variety of public houses along its main streets: The King’s Arms, The Bay Horse, The Falcon Hotel, The Hop Pole, and finally The Crown and Sceptre. Just out of town, The Royal Oak has fine views from the Downs.

Good food can be sought at most public houses, but there are also excellent restaurants in the local area including Number One in Bromyard, the Granary at Collington and the award-winning Three Crowns at Ullingswick. With authentic Indian and Thai restaurants in the High Street, you will also discover several fast food outlets serving Chinese, Indian, fish and chips, pizzas and kebabs. There are also many inviting cafés in some of Bromyard’s historic buildings.

All-in-all Bromyard and its surrounding area have much to offer the thirsty and hungry visitor and all can be assured of a warm and friendly welcome. Cheers!