Hereford, a city in the heart of Herefordshire, England, has long been a hidden treasure known for its rich history, stunning countryside, and welcoming community. For those considering a move to this charming city, or simply curious about what life is like in Hereford, we’ve compiled an in-depth guide that covers everything from its location and history to its amenities and lifestyle. Discover what it’s like to live in Hereford, the pros and cons of this unique city, and the other areas in Herefordshire where you could call home.
Where is Hereford?
Situated in the West Midlands region of England, Hereford is the county town of Herefordshire. It’s strategically located near the border of Wales, which makes it a gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes of both England and Wales. Hereford is easily accessible from major cities like Birmingham, Cardiff, and Bristol, making it a convenient and well-connected place to live.
A Brief History of Hereford
Hereford boasts a rich history that dates back to Roman times, with its name derived from the Old English “here-ford,” meaning “army crossing.” It has been a centre of trade and worship since ancient days, and its iconic cathedral, Hereford Cathedral, is famous for housing the Mappa Mundi, a remarkable medieval map of the world. Throughout its history, the city has played a significant role in agriculture, commerce, and culture, making it a place of enduring historical importance.
Characteristics of Hereford
Hereford is known for its picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and historic architecture. The River Wye flows through the city, adding to its natural beauty. It’s a city where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. The people of Hereford take pride in their strong sense of community, which is evident in various local events, festivals, and markets.
What Attracts People to Hereford
There are many reasons why you might want to consider moving to Hereford, which we will go into more detail about in this section.
Cultural Attractions and History
Hereford’s cultural attractions are anchored by Hereford Cathedral, housing the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library, offering a unique historical experience. The city also features The Old House, an impeccably preserved Tudor-era dwelling, and Berrington Hall, a National Trust property graced with a Georgian mansion and beautiful gardens.
Scenic Beauty
The stunning landscapes of Herefordshire are a magnet for nature enthusiasts and hikers. The Herefordshire countryside is a visual treat, with orchards, woodlands, and meadows that change with the seasons.
Affordability
Housing in Hereford tends to be more affordable than in major cities. This, combined with a lower cost of living, makes it an attractive option for those looking to save money without compromising on the quality of life.
Community Spirit
Hereford’s residents are known for their warm and friendly nature. The strong sense of community and the numerous local events and activities create a welcoming environment.
What Life is Like in Hereford
Living in Hereford offers a unique blend of both urban and rural experiences. The city itself provides a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, while the surrounding countryside offers tranquillity and outdoor adventures. Life in Hereford is characterised by a relaxed pace, allowing residents to enjoy a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Hereford attracts a diverse range of residents. You’ll find a mix of families, young professionals, retirees, and students. The city’s vibrant community is made up of both locals and newcomers drawn by the city’s charm.
The Different Areas of Hereford
Hereford is divided into various neighbourhoods and districts, each with its own unique character. These include:
- The city centre: The heart of Hereford offers a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Here you’ll find historic buildings, quaint streets, and the iconic Hereford Cathedral
- Tupsley: A popular residential area with good local amenities and schools
- Whitecross: Known for its community feel, this area is home to many families and has a range of local amenities
- Bartonsham: A peaceful and picturesque area with easy access to the city centre
Cost of Living
When relocating to Hereford, you can anticipate everyday living costs to align closely with the UK national average. Dining out for one person typically amounts to about £12, which is slightly more budget-friendly than the national average.
On the flip side, utility expenses in Hereford tend to be higher than the nationwide average. Electricity, heating, cooling, water, and waste disposal collectively typically amount to more than the national average. For broadband services, you can expect to pay around £30 per month.
Amenities in Hereford
Hereford offers a wide range of amenities, including shopping centres, healthcare facilities, and recreational options. The city has multiple supermarkets, local markets, and retail outlets for all your shopping needs. There’s also a hospital, GP practices, and dental services to ensure your healthcare needs are well taken care of.
Transport Links
Getting around in Hereford is straightforward. The city has a bus station and a train station, offering easy access to other cities and towns in the region.
The road network is well-developed, with the A49 and A438 providing access to the wider county and connecting to the M50 motorway. Hereford’s advantageous location near the M5 corridor provides excellent transportation connections to the entire UK. With just a three-hour drive, you can easily reach both London and Manchester, while Birmingham and Bristol are conveniently accessible in less than an hour’s drive.
Hereford’s railway station conveniently serves the city, situated just a short 5-minute stroll from the city centre. It is strategically positioned along the Welsh Marches Line, connecting Leominster and Abergavenny. The station offers regular direct train services to key destinations like Birmingham, Cardiff, and Manchester, with hourly departures. Additionally, travellers can enjoy the convenience of up to 60 daily direct services to London Paddington.
For those who prefer cycling, Hereford has several cycle lanes and paths to promote sustainable commuting.
Main Attractions in Hereford
Hereford and the surrounding areas have a lot to offer in terms of attractions and activities.
- Hereford Cathedral: A historical masterpiece, the cathedral is a must-visit for its architecture and the Mappa Mundi (the largest surviving medieval map in the world) and Chained Library.
- Berrington Hall: A National Trust property with a stunning Georgian mansion and picturesque gardens.
- The Museum of Cider: Learn about Hereford’s strong cider-making tradition at this informative museum.
- The Hereford Museum and Art Gallery: A cultural treasure trove that houses a diverse collection of art and historical artifacts, providing visitors with an enriching experience of Hereford’s heritage and creativity.
- The Black and White House Museum: This offers a captivating journey into the city’s Tudor history with its beautifully preserved timber-framed architecture and historic exhibits.
- The Waterworks Museum: This showcases a fascinating array of water-related heritage, including steam and diesel pumping engines, offering an educational and entertaining insight into the history of water supply and engineering.
- Three Choirs Festival: One of the British Isles’ oldest music festivals. A triennial celebration of choral music that rotates between Hereford, Gloucester, and Worcester, filled with splendid performances and cultural richness.
Employment Opportunities in Hereford
Employment opportunities in Hereford span various sectors. Agriculture, healthcare, education, and manufacturing are some of the prominent industries in the region. With its close proximity to major cities, some residents choose to work in larger urban centres and commute back to the comfort of Hereford in the evenings.
Open and Green Spaces in Hereford and Herefordshire
The countryside around Hereford is a nature lover’s paradise. Herefordshire boasts a range of parks, nature reserves, and walking trails. Some notable green spaces and outdoor attractions include:
- The Wye Valley: Perfect for hiking, canoeing, and experiencing stunning scenery
- The Brecon Beacons: A short drive away and ideal for outdoor activities
- Queenswood Country Park: A beautiful park with woodlands and trails for leisurely walks
- The Malvern Hills: Located nearby, the Malvern Hills are a breathtaking range of ancient hills known for their natural beauty and excellent hiking opportunities, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside
Education in Hereford
Families moving to Hereford can access a range of educational options, including primary and secondary schools, as well as colleges. The city also has a local university, the Hereford College of Arts, which offers a variety of creative courses.
Schools in Hereford
Hereford is home to a mix of state and independent schools.
Hereford Cathedral School is a highly regarded independent school offering a mix of day and boarding options to children aged from 3 to 18. The renowned establishment is part of the ancient Hereford Cathedral Foundation, dating back to the 7th century.
Other schools in Hereford and the surrounding areas include:
- The Bishop of Hereford’s Bluecoat School
- Aylestone School
- Hereford Sixth Form College (ages 16-19)
- Malbrook Primary School (ages 3-11)
- Holmer CofE Academy (ages 4-11)
- St Paul’s CofE Primary School (ages 4-11)
- Barrs Court School (ages 11-19 special)
- St Francis Xavier’s Primary School (ages 3-11)
At the secondary level, The Hereford Academy offers specialised education in sports and science, while the Bishop of Hereford’s Bluecoat School is a recognised Technology College with excellent resources for mathematics and sciences.
Higher education options include the nearby University of Gloucestershire, as well as the Hereford College of Arts and the Herefordshire and Ludlow College, which offer specialist undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Eating and Drinking
Hereford offers a range of dining experiences, from traditional British pubs to international cuisine. Local produce is used extensively in restaurants, bars, pubs and eateries, proving a true taste of Herefordshire.
Here are some local favourites:
- The Bookshop: A charming cafe, known for its books and delectable cakes.
- The Beefy Boys: A popular burger joint serving gourmet burgers.
- The Left Bank: A riverside restaurant offering a mix of European and British dishes.
- Simply Thai. Kitchen: A Thai restaurant serving delicious authentic food
- Miller & Carter Steakhouse: One of the best steakhouses in Hereford, renowned for its high-quality service and food
There is also the fantastic indoor Hereford Butter Market, which houses a host of stalls including butchers, fishmongers and a wide range of locally sourced fruit, vegetables and other produce.
Shopping and Leisure in Hereford
The city provides a mix of independent shops, boutiques, and major retail chains. High Town, the city centre’s central square is a hub for shopping and hosts regular markets. You can find everything from clothing and accessories to artisanal products and fresh produce in the local markets.
Old Market Hereford is an outdoor complex of national and international retailers, chain restaurants and also has an ODEON cinema. There is also Maylord Orchards, which is a complex of chain retailers and local boutiques.
Leisure options in Hereford are diverse and include sports clubs, gyms, theatres, and cinemas. The Courtyard is a popular arts centre offering a variety of live performances and film screenings.
There are many gyms in Hereford including Anytime Fitness Hereford, Snap Fitness Hereford and Pure Gym Hereford.
There is also the local favourite, Halo Hereford Leisure Centre. This centre offering a wide array of activities for residents. The centre features a gym, swimming pool, sauna, sports hall, golf course, athletic tracks, as well as football, cricket, and tennis pitches, among other amenities.
Is Hereford a Safe Place to Live In?
Hereford is generally considered a safe place to live. The city benefits from its strong sense of community, which contributes to a sense of security. However, as with any place, it’s advisable to take standard precautions to ensure personal safety.
Crime Rates
The overall crime rate in Hereford is around 103 crimes per 1,000 people annually.
Cost of Living in Hereford
The cost of living in Hereford is around the national average when it comes to everyday expenses.
The average cost for everyday items are as follows:
- Regular cappuccino: £2.67
- Milk (1 litre): £0.90
- Loaf of fresh white bread (500g): £0.87
- White rice (1kg): £1.18
- 12 eggs (regular): £1.62
- Apples (1kg): £0.80
- Bananas (1kg): £0.80
- Oranges (1kg): £0.80
The average monthly cost of basic utilities (electricity, gas and water) for an 85m2 apartment is around £118. The average monthly cost for broadband is around £30. Bear in mind that these are average costs at the time of writing from data gathered by Numbeo. It is worth double checking these figures if you are searching for property in Hereford.
Property Market in Hereford
Below we have some highly useful data on Hereford’s property market, offering insights into the property market in Hereford.
Average Property Prices
In December 2023, the average price of a property in Hereford is £273,603.
Over the last 12 months, the average price by property type is as follows:
- Detached: £428,710
- Semi-detached: £258,759
- Terraced: £207,205
- Flat/apartment: £139,801
Bear in mind that these are average property prices. If you are thinking about buying in Hereford, you will find a range of properties available in the town to suit a range of budgets.
Average Rental Prices
In December 2023, the average monthly rental price in Hereford is £773.
Over the last 12 months, the average monthly rental price by property type is as follows:
- Detached: £948
- Semi-detached: £922
- Terraced: £789
- Flat: £645
Pros and Cons of Living in Hereford
As with any place, there are pros and cons to living in Hereford.
Pros:
- Affordable housing compared to larger cities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Stunning natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
- Access to quality education and healthcare facilities.
- Rich history and cultural attractions.
- A balanced urban and rural lifestyle.
Cons:
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Employment opportunities may be more limited in specific industries.
- The weather can be unpredictable due to the city’s proximity to the Welsh border.
Other Areas in Herefordshire You Might Want to Consider
While Hereford is the county town, Herefordshire offers a variety of other towns and villages for those looking to live in a more rural setting. Consider places like Ledbury, Ross-on-Wye, and Leominster, each with its own unique charm and amenities.
Are You Thinking of Making the Move to Hereford?
Living in Hereford can be a wonderful experience for those seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community. Its affordability, vibrant culture, and access to the stunning Herefordshire countryside make it an attractive place to call home. Whether you’re drawn to the city itself or the picturesque surrounding areas, Herefordshire has something to offer everyone.
Thinking about moving to Hereford? Get in touch with our Hereford estate agents, who provide a range of specialist services to buyers, as well as sellers and landlords.
