LEDBURY.

Ledbury is a picturesque market town set in the fine county of Herefordshire, close to the Malvern Hills and the borders of Gloucestershire and Worcestershire. Here, there is an air of tranquility amidst an array of ancient black and white timbered buildings. The Talbot is a Grade II listed historical Inn has combined the best in hospitality for more than 400 years. Ideally situated to discover the delights of Ledbury and the beautiful surrounding countryside. Whether it is for business or pleasure there is a warm welcome for all who enter. The Talbot has a beautiful oak panelled dining room with its fine carved over-mantle that was once the scene of fighting between the Cavaliers and Roundheads. It seats up to 40 people and is the ideal setting for private parties and functions and small conferences. Food is served 12-2.30pm & 6.30-9.30pm every day. There is a varied menu served in the Lounge Bar or Dining Room. For example: Deep fried Brie with lime and mango chutney £5.25; Japanese fan tail Prawns served with spicy relish £5.75; Broccoli and Mushroom tartlets served with Stilton Cream £4.15; Leek, Mushroom and Roquefort filo parcels with onion and chive sauce £4.95; Fillet Steak £14.95; Sirloin Steak £11.95. The Talbot is open all Year Round and is a Wadworths house serving their beers plus a guest. There is also a log fire in the warm and welcoming bar. There is also accommodation in one of the character bedrooms with modern facilities from £40 for double/twin, single occupancy (Mon-Thurs only) from £40 per room Breakfast is £8.50 extra for full english per person and £5.50 for continental (they require a deposit of £10 per room per night). (English Tourist Board 2 Crowns; Egon Ronay Recommended).

This place was established in 1420 and was runner-up in the CAMRA Herefordshire Pub of the Year 1996. The Royal Oak is a traditional historic Coaching Inn in the heart of Ledbury Herefordshire at the foot of the Malvern Hills and is only 30 minutes from the Cathedral Cities of Hereford, Gloucester & Worcester plus the Cotswolds, Shakespere Country, The Royal Forest of Dean and the Welsh Borders. With it's wealth of Oak beams it has been a hostelry for over 500 years. Today it has all modern facilities but yet still maintains it's historic charm. This used ot be the home of the Royal Oak Brewery - first established in 1841 and stopped in 1921. The hotel bars are open to the public. The hotel has two bars, one on the ground floor if you feel posh as it has tables and chairs (even two comfy ones), and the other in a cellar for the 'drinking trade', whatever that might mean? They also have live entertainment (check flyers for details but it was folk the Sunday we went) and a non-smoking area! In winter there is a real fire to warm your cockles. Toilets are rustic and basic and cramped in the gents women's are better. The Royal Oak does accommodation Rating, single £35-£40, double/twin £49-£58 (en-suite and Standard rooms available), family rooms available. Breakfast however is optional at £7 per person (!?). All facilities included (colour TV, complimentary tea & coffee making facilities and hairdryers in all rooms). Children are also welcome. The hotel was first established in 1420, and built to it's present size in 1635. The Georgian brick facade was added in 1830. Apparently it was owned by the Miles family from 1420 - 1887. The hotel has been able to maintain it's character, the oak panelled bridal suite with it's hand crafted four poster bed, for example, is still in original form. During the 1800's it was used as the meeting room for the Coroner's court amongst other functions. You can also E-mail them to book on: rohotel@aol.com. Not really suitable for the disabled. Landlord is friendly.

Other Ledbury Links:

Accommodation in Ledbury [2] [3] [4] [5]

Ledburyonline

Ledbury Tourist Information Centre

Map of Ledbury

Ledbury Railway Station

Ledbury Council

Malvern

Westons Traditional Cider

J. Chans Ledbury Page