Thinking about moving to Leominster? Well, in this guide you’ll learn about this charming market town, and everything it has to offer to the locals, from the best schools, transport connections, the best places to eat and drink with family and friends, and even the property prices. Learn what it’s like living in Leominster, and hopefully once you’ve read this guide to living in Leominster, you’ll have made your mind up.  

The history of Leominster dates to the Saxon era, and is home to historical landmarks, such as the Leominster Priory, dating back to the 7th century. You can explore the Norman architecture and incredible stained-glass windows. 

Steeped in history, this Herefordshire town offers a perfect blend of rural tranquillity and modern conveniences. With its medieval architecture, scenic countryside, and strong community spirit, it’s an ideal location for families, retirees, and professionals looking for a quiet retreat from the busy pace of life while staying connected to larger cities. 

What’s it Like Living in Leominster? 

In the heart of Herefordshire, the market town of Leominster is located just 12 miles north of Hereford and 7 miles south of Ludlow, close to the Shropshire border. This historic town, renowned for its half-timbered buildings and bustling markets, is set against a backdrop of rolling hills, making it an attractive choice for those who appreciate the great outdoors. 

Leominster has a relaxed atmosphere, a thriving arts scene, independent shops, and numerous events throughout the year bringing the local community together.  

Despite the towns rural setting, it does have good transport links, with direct rail services to key destinations, easy access to major road networks, and of course has a lot of interesting history, culture, and natural surrounding beauty, making it just some of the reasons people want to call this place home. 

Benefits of Living in Leominster 

Leominster has some incredibly breathtaking scenery and natural surrounding beauty, offering up plenty of opportunities to get out and about and explore the local countryside and get involved in the outdoor activities. The streets of this quaint market town are rich in medieval history, and due to its sought-after and idyllic location, affordable property market, history and surroundings, makes it a very attractive to renters.  

Beautiful Countryside and Outdoor Spaces: One of the biggest reasons many loves living in Leominster is its proximity to the stunning rolling hills of the Herefordshire countryside. Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, or simply taking in the fresh air, you’ll find plenty of scenic locations nearby. 

  • Queenswood Country Park & Arboretum – A 123-acres of ancient woodland, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) offering walking trails, picnic areas, and a stunning 47-acre collection of over 1,200 rare trees from around the world. It’s free to enter, though parking is paid for.  
  • Berrington Hall – A beautiful Georgian mansion by Henry Holland, located 3 miles north of Leominster, surrounded by landscaped gardens and parkland, perfect for leisurely strolls. Now in the care of the National Trust its gardens, including Berrington lake, a pool and an island is a haven for wildlife, including waterfowl, fish, and insects.  
  • Mortimer Trail – A 30-mile walking route with hills, ridges and valleys stretching from Ludlow to Kington, offering breathtaking views of the Herefordshire and Shropshire countryside. Exploring the Mortimer Trail can take 1-3 days to complete. Some of the highlights and hot spots throughout this trail include Mortimer Forest, Croft Ambrey hillfort, Ludlow, and Aymestrey.  

Community and Market Town Atmosphere in Leominster: Leominster’s rich history is evident in its charming streets, lined with medieval buildings, antique shops, and historic landmarks, such as: 

  • Leominster Priory – A 12th-century church with stunning architecture and peaceful gardens. 
  • Grange Court – A timber-framed building dating back to the 17th century, now serving as a community hub. 
  • Broad Street and Corn Square – The heart of the town, where weekly markets and seasonal events take place. 

The town’s strong sense of heritage, community spirit, and sustainability combined with its modern amenities, offers a unique blend of old and new, creating a striking balance between traditional market town charm and contemporary rural living, making Leominster a desirable place to call home.  

Range of Local Independent Stores: Here locals can explore the variety of independent shops and antique stores selling gifts, clothing, and local foods and produce, whilst taking in the timber framed cafes and stores adding to the towns charm. You’ll also find supermarkets like Tesco, Morrisons and Aldi within easy reach too.  

For local produce, the Leominster Charter Market takes place every Friday in Corn Square where a wide range of stalls supply fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, bread, cheese, meats and many other locally produced foods.  

The monthly Farmers Market takes place on the 2nd Saturday of the month in Corn Square between 9am and 1pm. Here you can purchase meat, fruit, chocolate, plants and much more.  

Regular Community Events in Leominster: Because of the local community atmosphere in Leominster there is a great range of markets and community events taking place. A favourite with the locals here is the Leominster Food Fayre, an annual event taking place in Corn Square and the Town Council building on the 1st Saturday of each September. Producers from North Herefordshire and surrounding areas attend this event serving up food, drink, crafts, as well children-friendly activities and demonstrations.  

A Safe and Friendly Community: Leominster is known for its tight-knit, friendly community, where residents actively participate in local events, farmers’ markets, and festivals. Crime rates here are lower than the national average, making it a safe and peaceful place to live. 

Education and Schools in Leominster 

Leominster is home to several excellent schools, catering to families with children of all ages, from Primary, Secondary, and Further Education. Popular schools in the area include, Cambian Hereford School, Westfield School, Leominster Primary School and Earl Mortimer College. 

Primary Schools: 

Secondary Schools: 

  • Cambian Hereford School – An independent small school providing specialist education for students with special needs aged 11-18. 

For further education, Hereford College of Arts and Herefordshire & Ludlow College are within a commutable distance, and 25 minutes away from Leominster. 

Transport Links in Leominster 

Despite its rural charm, Leominster does have some good transport connections, making it easy to travel to larger towns and cities. The A49 connects Leominster to Hereford (12 miles south) and Ludlow (10 miles north), providing access to the M5 and wider road networks. 

Leominster Railway Station is located on the Transport for Wales “Marches” line, offering direct train services to Hereford, Shrewsbury, Manchester, and Cardiff, making commuting and travel convenient.  

A reliable local bus network, located on Dishley Street, connects Leominster to Hereford, Ludlow, and surrounding villages. 

Leominster’s Property Market and Prices 

Leominster offers a diverse range of properties, from quaint cottages and historic timber-framed homes to modern family houses, new-build developments and apartments. The town provides excellent value for money compared to larger cities, making it an attractive option for first-time buyers and those looking for more space. It is also incredibly popular with renters, as it’s more affordable, making it an even more attractive investment opportunity for first time buyers, landlords, or investors.  

Over the past 12 months the average property price in Leominster was £294,690, with the total value of sales exceeding £194,995,700. 6% of sales over this period were flats, gaining an average sales price of £119,972, with houses achieving an average sales price of £311,170.  

Old Street was the most popular street in Leominster with the most transactions.  

Average Property Prices in Leominster: 

  • Detached Houses: £427,911 
  • Semi-detached Houses: £253,358 
  • Terraced Houses: £214,059 
  • Flats: £119,972 

Average Rental Prices in Leominster: 

Leominster is popular with renters, with 19% of renters aged being 30-34. Over the past 12 months the average rent in Leominster was £874 per month, which is an 8% change on the previous 12-month period. 33% of homes let during the past 12 months were flats, achieving an average rent price of £733 per month, with houses being rented out at an average of £970 per month.  

  • 1 Bed Flats: £705 per month 
  • 2 Bed Houses: £805 per month 
  • 3 Bed House: £1,014 per month 

The affordability of homes in Leominster makes it a great investment opportunity, particularly for those looking to escape city life while still having access to good amenities.  

If you’re looking to purchase your first property in Leominster, then visit our Leominster Sales and Letting Agents so we can help you find your dream property. 

How Leominster Compares to Neighbouring Areas 

Feature Leominster Hereford Ludlow Kington 
Green Spaces Queenswood Park, Berrington Hall, Mortimer Trail River Wye walks, Bishops Meadow, Queenswood Mortimer Forest, Whitcliffe Common Hergest Ridge, Offa’s Dyke Path 
Average Property Price £294,690 £286,187 £281,813 £307,986 
Transport Links Train station, A49, good bus network Train station, A49, M50 access Train station, A49 No train station, bus connections to Hereford 
Lifestyle Market town with history and strong community Bustling city with more amenities Picturesque historic town with high-end dining Rural village-like charm with stunning countryside 

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Leominster 

Leominster has a fantastic selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, offering everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine.  

Best Restaurants and Pubs in Leominster: 

  • White Lion Leominster – A bar, restaurant and beer garden serving up some seriously moreish food, from breaded garlic mushrooms, beer battered fish, roast dinners with all the trimmings, and double steak burgers.   
  • Taste of India – Highlighted as the ‘best Indian in the area by far’ on Tripadvisor, the Taste of India is a popular with the locals. A highlight is you can bring your own alcoholic drinks with you.   
  • The Chequers – A historic timber-framed inn pub with a welcoming atmosphere, real ales, and hearty pub food. This is a firm favourite with the locals and visitors. 
  • Yoko’s Thai Food – A local restaurant and takeaway where the food is packed full of flavours blended perfectly. From fresh curries, to stir-fries and street food, Yoko’s Thai Food is must visit! 
  • Vine Juniper – Although not a drinking establishment, this wine merchant has the best selection of available wines and spirits at competitive prices. You’ll find a range of local beers and ciders from around Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire.  

Are You Ready to Move to Leominster? 

Leominster offers a great balance between countryside living and modern convenience. With its historic charm, strong community, transport links, fantastic eateries, and affordable property options, it’s an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees alike.  

If you’re considering buying or renting in Leominster, get in touch with local Leominster estate agents today to explore available properties and find your dream home in this beautiful Herefordshire town. For Lettings, call us on 01568 701853. For Sales, call us on 01568 701851. Or book a free property valuation with our Leominster branch today.