Herefordshire
Spring is almost upon us and, with luck, there will be enough sunshine around to enjoy a country weekend in a beautiful location. And Herefordshire is certainly one of Britain’s best-looking counties, with plenty of scenic walks and cycle paths.
Around 15 minutes from Hereford, surrounded by pretty villages, you will find Holme Lacy House, a 17th-century manor house with 20 acres of parkland and formal gardens, which is run by Warner Leisure Hotels. Offering holidays of different durations in 13 hotels and villages, WLH breaks are perfect for mature visitors, but don’t think that means just nodding off in an armchair by the fire – they’re packed full of activities.
Visit Hereford Cathedral
Have a go at archery – the leisure team will show you how. If you’ve never done it before, and even if you miss, it’s still great fun. Or, with air-rifle shooting, you can take home the paper target peppered with your efforts. There is also curling, tennis, putting, croquet and snooker.
Then how about Ballet Be Fit, a gentle exercise class. Even the men managed a plié! Do have a go at Laserclayz (an extra £20 per person). It’s similar to clay pigeon shooting but you ‘fire’ a laser beam so there is no kickback from the gun. Or there is wine tasting at £8.
When you’re not enjoying the outdoor activities or exercising, you can take part in the quizzes held in the elegant lounges, go to dance classes, cooking demonstrations, watch movies, try some singing, skittles, and more. The hotel also has a swimming pool, as well as a sauna, gym and spa.
That’s a lot to pack into a minibreak, but if you have time to explore locally, Hampton Court Gardens, Leominster, in the grounds of a fortified medieval manor house, is 45 minutes away by car. The picturesque town of Ross-on-Wye is close by too, as is Hereford Cathedral.
Whatever activities you’ve taken part in during the day, you’ll certainly be ready for your three-course dinner buffet or carvery, served in the big Bremner Scott Restaurant or Courtyard Bistro. Then there’s evening entertainment in the form of a musical show and disco – even during the week – and stars such as Jane McDonald during special breaks.
Holme Lacy House hotel
All the rooms at the hotel are comfortable, with tea and coffee-making facilities, TV and snuggly beds. Do set your alarm to allow time for a hearty breakfast before you join new friends for the Walk A Mile morning stroll around the grounds before you head home.
GETTING THERE
A two-night, midweek break at Holme Lacy House costs from £205.71 in March (based on two sharing), including breakfast, dinner, live entertainment, activities and use of the leisure facilities.
0330-100 9774, www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
Contact Wendy at wendy.gomersall@lady.co.uk
Prices are correct at time of going to press.
Around 15 minutes from Hereford, surrounded by pretty villages, you will find Holme Lacy House, a 17th-century manor house with 20 acres of parkland and formal gardens, which is run by Warner Leisure Hotels. Offering holidays of different durations in 13 hotels and villages, WLH breaks are perfect for mature visitors, but don’t think that means just nodding off in an armchair by the fire – they’re packed full of activities.
Visit Hereford CathedralHave a go at archery – the leisure team will show you how. If you’ve never done it before, and even if you miss, it’s still great fun. Or, with air-rifle shooting, you can take home the paper target peppered with your efforts. There is also curling, tennis, putting, croquet and snooker.
Then how about Ballet Be Fit, a gentle exercise class. Even the men managed a plié! Do have a go at Laserclayz (an extra £20 per person). It’s similar to clay pigeon shooting but you ‘fire’ a laser beam so there is no kickback from the gun. Or there is wine tasting at £8.
When you’re not enjoying the outdoor activities or exercising, you can take part in the quizzes held in the elegant lounges, go to dance classes, cooking demonstrations, watch movies, try some singing, skittles, and more. The hotel also has a swimming pool, as well as a sauna, gym and spa.
That’s a lot to pack into a minibreak, but if you have time to explore locally, Hampton Court Gardens, Leominster, in the grounds of a fortified medieval manor house, is 45 minutes away by car. The picturesque town of Ross-on-Wye is close by too, as is Hereford Cathedral.
Whatever activities you’ve taken part in during the day, you’ll certainly be ready for your three-course dinner buffet or carvery, served in the big Bremner Scott Restaurant or Courtyard Bistro. Then there’s evening entertainment in the form of a musical show and disco – even during the week – and stars such as Jane McDonald during special breaks.
Holme Lacy House hotelAll the rooms at the hotel are comfortable, with tea and coffee-making facilities, TV and snuggly beds. Do set your alarm to allow time for a hearty breakfast before you join new friends for the Walk A Mile morning stroll around the grounds before you head home.
GETTING THERE
A two-night, midweek break at Holme Lacy House costs from £205.71 in March (based on two sharing), including breakfast, dinner, live entertainment, activities and use of the leisure facilities.
0330-100 9774, www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk
Contact Wendy at wendy.gomersall@lady.co.uk
Prices are correct at time of going to press.