A four-night trip across the picturesque countryside of Herefordshire and the Welsh borders. Discover the ancient history of this region while enjoying the idyllic British pastoral landscape of quaint villages and rolling green hills. As we cross the charming borderlands of Wales and England, we see the famous Black and White Villages, experience the wild sights of the Golden Valley and ancient monoliths, eat local delicacies, and stay at grand estates and authentic farms.
- Duration
- 4
- How We Travel
- Electric biking
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Activity Level
Graded between 1 (easiest) and 5 (most challenging). Click for more details
- Bike Type
- Front suspension electric mountain bikes
- Price
- £2,990 per person
- Group Size
- Maximum 12 guests
Journey Highlights
- Cycle the quiet backroads where England meets Wales, winding through rolling hills and scaling the scenic Gospel Pass in the Black Mountains.
- Travel through the quintessentially British Black and White Villages, Tudor half-timbered buildings with iconic dark oak frames and whitewashed walls. Weobley and Pembridge were recently chosen as filming locations for the film adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's Hamnet.
- Discover the wild beauty of the Golden Valley, where Neolithic sites, remote ruins and abbeys are nestled between high peaks and rivers.
- Indulge in the region’s renowned cider and perry culture, enjoying feasts created from local produce.
- Experience a variety of characterful stays, ranging from the grandeur of Kentchurch Court, a quintessentially English stately home, to authentic South African safari tents.
- Explore Hay-on-Wye, Britain’s literary capital, and unlock the hidden paths and local secrets of the Wye Valley.
Good To Know
- We cycle across a mix of surfaces, from tarmac and cobbles to gravel and muddy tracks, on quiet public roads, taking on some short, steep climbs and descents that require some cycling effort and caution.
- There are no walks planned into this trip.
- Be prepared for all sorts of weather. The key is to bring the right clothing.
Welcome to The Slow Cyclist
For our newest journey, we're sharing something a little closer to home. After years of exploring the far corners of the globe, we are incredibly excited to launch our first-ever UK journey, bringing The Slow Cyclist style to a landscape we have always loved, Herefordshire. We have timed this homecoming perfectly, launching during the magic of the apple blossom season when the orchards are in full bloom. Our route skirts the border of England and Wales, a landscape rich in history and littered with the remnants of ancient conflict, medieval ruins, and crumbling castles. We’ll time-travel through the iconic Black and White Villages and past Neolithic sites, all while showcasing the very best of contemporary Herefordshire. It is a land defined by its artisanal food and drink, where our plates will be filled with exceptional zero-mile produce and of course, the region’s famous cider. To truly unlock the region’s secrets, we worked in partnership with Jo and Gio Hilditch at Whittern Farms. Their local knowledge and shared love for exploring by bike have helped us uncover hidden paths and local connections that we would otherwise have missed. We’ll stay in a selection of the county's most interesting properties as we ascend the Gospel Pass in the Black Mountains and wind our way through the rolling hills of the Golden Valley. It feels right to finally be back where it all began, and we can't wait to share these hidden corners of the UK with you.
Oli BroomFounder, The Slow Cyclist
The Journey
This journey is a serene escape by electric bike into the borderlands of England and Wales, moving from the wide-open heathlands and high passes of the Black Mountains to rolling pastures and river valleys. With quiet country lanes under our tyres and the scent of apples in the air, Herefordshire is a landscape steeped in history; we discover sleepy market villages home to historic black and white houses, ancient churches with stained glass, neolithic sites, lush orchards, and rugged ridges dotted with sheep and horses. We’ll be treated to pottery and perry at the Cabalva Estate and bookshops galore in Britain's book capital of Hay-On-Wye.
Is It For Me?
Our journeys are built around friendship, exceptional hospitality and the great outdoors. Slow Cyclists are curious travellers with a bit of juice in their legs, approaching our time on a bike - or on foot - as an opportunity to explore rather than test our fitness. That’s not to say we don’t pedal hard sometimes, just that we are often distracted by the food, history and people that make a place special. When we see something interesting, we tend to stop and take it in rather than race by. If this sounds like you, we're pretty sure you'll love your time exploring Herefordshire with us.
When To Go?
We welcome guests in Herefordshire between April and September. Late April and early May see the apple blossoms in full bloom and September brings the beginning of colourful autumn. All seasons in Britain bring their own charm, and all seasons can bring rain. Temperatures in April can range between 4 - 14° Celsius. The summer months of June, July and August are the warmest when temperatures range between 16 - 24° Celsius, and in September temperatures can range between 9 - 19° Celsius.
The Cycling
This journey is taken by electric bike. For cycling, we use front suspension electric mountain bikes which allow you to travel easily across a mix of surfaces. Cycles are between 47 – 63 kms on a mix of tarmac, cobbles, grassy paths, fields and gravel roads. These parts of England and Wales have many rolling hills, so we will have a few steep climbs and descents. You'll need good balance and moderate cycling fitness. Some tracks can be a little challenging, but our guides are on hand to help with tricky sections, and we have plenty of time to take it slow.
Find out more about our activity levels here.
Food & Drink
The food on this trip embodies the best of modern British cuisine, a fusion of cultures with a focus on the proud regional larder of Herefordshire and the Welsh Borders. Dining at White Heron Estate is a highlight of the trip; you will experience an off-grid feast overlooking the vineyard, based on fresh, ethically produced ingredients, sampling the award-winning British Cassis liqueur, White Heron Estate Sparkling Wine, apple juice and cider. The food on this journey is grown organically on local farms or foraged from hedgerows around us. Dishes range from simple classics like comforting Welsh cakes and generous platters of local cheeses and meats (such as Little Hereford from Monkland Dairy), to the smoky flavours of the celebratory South African braai at Drover's Rest. You will dine in cosy pubs, grand dining rooms, and outside at our favourite picnic locations.
Flora & Fauna
The landscape of Herefordshire is a haven of biodiversity. The quiet backroads are lined by magnificent, ancient hedgerows, which form protected wildlife corridors and are rich sources for foraged ingredients. As you cycle the high ridges of Hergest Ridge and beneath Hay Bluff, watch the skies for the magnificent red kite and peregrine falcon soaring above the bracken-covered slopes, also home to semi-wild Welsh mountain ponies. The idyllic Black and White Villages are framed by the abundant, romantic beauty of English cottage gardens. In the lower valleys, look out for the electric blue flash of kingfishers or a bobbing dipper along the fast-flowing streams. From the spectacular purple heather on the Gospel Pass to meadows buzzing with the rare marsh fritillary butterfly, this journey brings the British landscape vividly to life.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Monday 14 September - Arrival at White Heron Estate
Cycle 10kms
We'll welcome you to White Heron Estate in the afternoon for an introduction to the electric bikes for a gentle warm-up ride through the grounds of Whittern Farm. This 700-acre estate, stewarded by Jo Hilditch for over three decades, is home to sparkling wine, blackcurrant rows and blossoming apple orchards. As evening sets in, we’ll gather overlooking the vineyard, Jo’s latest passion project, for a supper of farm-to-fork dining. Expect a spread of local cheeses and charcuterie, perfectly paired with Jo’s celebrated British Cassis and her exceptional new sparkling wine, before retiring for the night to comfortable rooms in the country home.
Day 2 - Tuesday 15 September - White Heron Estate to Hay-on-Wye
Morning cycle 37kms - Afternoon cycle 11kms
We begin our ride in the quiet lanes of Herefordshire, climbing out of Kington across moorland onto Hergest Ridge. On a clear day, we’ll be treated to uninterrupted views of the English and Welsh countryside. Descending by grass track and stony paths, we’ll wind along peaceful roads to Cabalva Estate, a traditional sheep, beef and perry pear farm, for lunch. After lunch, we cycle on to Hay-on-Wye, where you will have free time to explore this world-renowned literary hub. From there, it’s a short yet steep climb on tarmac to our accommodation for the evening. Owners Paul and Kesri moved from South Africa to London in the 90s and in 2008 quit their corporate jobs and moved to Drovers Rest, bringing a piece of South Africa with them to the Herefordshire hills. We’ll spend the night in authentic South African safari tents and dine on an exceptional South African braai.
Day 3 - Wednesday 16 September - Hay-on-Wye to Kentchurch Court
Morning cycle 28kms - Afternoon cycle 19kms
Today, we tackle the 549m climb to the Gospel Pass, the highest road pass in Wales. The effort is well rewarded; fog permitting, you’ll be treated to exceptional, expansive views that feel a world away from the valleys below. We then head off-road across grass and tracks, descending back into the Herefordshire lanes. After a well-earned lunch at a quaint and cosy riverside pub, we make our way to the glorious Golden Valley, carved into the wild countryside, this valley is home to the River Dore and is surrounded by the high peaks of Cat's Back. Nestled in the heart of the valley is Kentchurch Court, where we will spend the night, a historic 1,000-year-old estate and the ancestral home of the Scudamore family.
Day 4 - Thursday 17 September - Kentchurch Court to White Heron Estate
Morning cycle 28kms - Afternoon cycle 35kms
Our final day brings our longest ride. After breakfast, we bid farewell to our Regency country pile and pedal through the narrow lanes and picturesque scenery of the Golden Valley to the village of Abbey Dore, named after the local Dore Abbey, to which we'll pay a visit. Founded by Cistercians in 1147, it was restored in 1633 by Viscount Scudamore - allegedly to appease God and secure his place in heaven. After a brief pause for our own reflection, we continue across tarmac roads to St Peter’s Church in Peterchurch. The day's main challenge is the climb up Dorstone Hill, where we are rewarded with the Neolithic site of Arthur's Stone. A steep descent follows, and from there it's plain sailing, gentle riding through Herefordshire’s picturesque Black and White Villages, famous for their 16th- and 17th-century timber frames. We conclude our journey with a celebratory dinner back at White Heron Estate.
Day 5 - Friday 18 September - Departure
After a leisurely breakfast in the morning at the White Heron Estate, you are welcome to enjoy the hot tub, pool and grounds until your departure.
Practical Information
Guiding & Support
Our attention to detail sets us apart. You will be looked after by two of our local guides throughout, and each guide is an expert in the region you'll be travelling through. We’re sure you will become firm friends by the time you leave. Your bags will be driven ahead each day and a support vehicle will be on hand (although never too close) in case you need a lift.
Accommodation
We stay in a mix of boutique lodgings, ranging from the picturesque grounds of White Heron Estate to the historic charm of Kentchurch Court. We also enjoy an authentic farm stay at Drovers Rest, sleeping in comfortable safari tents under the vast, dark skies. Rooms at White Heron Estate are en-suite, while bathroom arrangements at Kentchurch Court vary depending on guest numbers. At Drovers Rest, the safari tents are not en-suite, but each is allocated its own private bathroom within a separate shower block. Reliable Wi-Fi is available every evening. Pricing is typically based on twin or double sharing, though a single supplement is available on request. Should any listed accommodation be unavailable, we will substitute it with an alternative of similar quality and local charm.
Bikes & Safety
We take your safety seriously. You must wear a helmet when cycling, and we cannot accept bookings from anyone unwilling to wear one. The bikes you'll be riding are front suspension electric mountain bikes. You will be given a brief lesson in how to use them effectively before we start cycling. If you have any technical issues during your time with us, from squeaky brakes to punctures, please let us know and we’ll fix it. We will be cycling on roads, albeit relatively quiet ones. But as always, we're not here to race; this is a journey to take time over.
Packing & Reading
Well in advance of your travels, we will send you an online Information Pack including various details you need to know in advance. This will include a suggested packing list as well as some of our favourite books about the region. Should you wish to buy any, we recommend doing so from our favourite independent travel bookshop, Daunt Books.
We partner with Trust My Travel so that, in accordance with travel industry regulations, your funds are 100% protected.
Pricing & Booking
Price
£2,990 per person
Extras |
|
|---|---|
| Single occupancy supplement | £425 |
- Support team, vehicle and luggage transfers.
- 2 x English-speaking local guides.
- 4 x nights accommodation.
- All accommodation, meals, snacks & drinks.
- All activities.
- Electric bike and helmet hire.
- 100% financial security.
- Donation to a cause that is aligned with our values.
- Transfers to White Heron Estate.
- Flights.
- Personal costs.
- Travel insurance.
- Visas (if required).
For private groups a 30% non-refundable deposit is required from the group leader and, thereafter, from each member of the party. A minimum of 50% of the party are required to book and pay their deposit within one month of the group leader. The balance is due 10 weeks before the departure date. If you are travelling on one of our scheduled journeys, we require a 30% non-refundable deposit on the core trip price (i.e. not on any extras) at the time of booking. The balance is due 10 weeks before the departure date. Please make sure you are familiar with our standard terms & conditions before booking.
You will receive two emails shortly after booking. First, a payment receipt, then a second email explaining next steps. Within two working days you will then be contacted by a member of our Guest Services team who will look after and advise you in the lead up to your travels.
We partner with Trust My Travel so that, in accordance with travel industry regulations, your funds are 100% protected.
Flights
For guests travelling internationally, the nearest major airports are Birmingham (BHX), Bristol (BRS), and London (LHR/LGW). We recommend using our trusted travel consultant, Liz Rees, for all necessary travel bookings (flights, rail tickets, or transfers) to reach the estate. Her contact details are: liz.rees@travelcounsellors.com or +44 7816 936876. Please let her know your departure dates and intended mode of transport.
Transfers
As this tour operates within the UK, we do not provide a group transfer on arrival or departure; guests are responsible for arranging transport to White Heron Estate for the start of the trip. Guests travelling from within the UK can drive (parking is available), take a taxi from Hereford or Leominster train station (approx. 30 minutes), or arrange a private transfer. We are happy to assist you in arranging your transport to White Heron Estate for the start and end of your trip. If you need alternative transport options because you are arriving or leaving earlier or later, we recommend contacting Liz Rees, who helps many of our guests with their supplementary transport requirements. Her details are liz.rees@travelcounsellors.com or +44 7816 936876.
Protect the Planet
We are thrilled that increasing numbers of our guests are choosing to get to and from their Slow Cyclist adventure in creative ways for environmental reasons. If you are based in the UK we highly recommend train travel as a relaxing and sustainable way to get to Herefordshire. Of course, you can undertake the research and book yourself, or Liz Rees can organise your journey for you.
For centuries, Herefordshire sat on the knife-edge between two kingdoms. This contested borderland, known as the Welsh Marches, was where England met Wales, and the clashing of swords echoed across the hills for generations. The region's very name hints at its turbulent past: 'Hereford' comes from the Old English for 'army crossing.' After the Norman Conquest, powerful Marcher Lords built over 120 defensive structures to keep the Welsh at bay. The dramatic ruins of Snodhill, Grosmont, and Longtown Castle still stand as monuments to this era, silent witnesses to battles like Owain Glyndŵr's Rebellion. Yet even amid the conflict, beauty took root. Cistercian monks founded Dore Abbey in 1147, bringing learning and craftsmanship to the region. Their legacy lives on in treasures like Hereford's Chained Library and the extraordinary Mappa Mundi. Look closer still, and you'll find traces of even deeper history: Neolithic sites like Arthur's Stone remind us that people have gathered on these hilltops for thousands of years. The borderlands weren't just shaped by warfare; trade flowed here too. Wool commerce crossed back and forth between England and Wales, bringing prosperity that funded the construction of the magnificent Black and White Villages we'll cycle through. In the 17th century, the region turned its attention from wool to drink, establishing itself as the heart of England's cider and perry country, a tradition that continues to define Herefordshire today. The era of independent Marcher Lords formally ended in 1536, but the legacy remains everywhere: in thousand-year-old estates like Kentchurch Court, in castle ruins crowning the hilltops, and in characterful villages that still bear the marks of their medieval wealth. This unique heritage makes Herefordshire unlike anywhere else in Britain.
Unique Experiences
Travel is so often commoditised and unimaginative. We are the antidote, taking time to create beautifully crafted, one-of-a-kind experiences to places that excite us.
Community & Connection
We cherish personal relationships and friendships and seek to strengthen cross-cultural bonds, respecting and supporting those who enter our orbit. All must feel our impact is positive.
Dedication to Excellence
We design experiences with passion, flair and innovation. We seek continual improvement, to offer the best experience possible.
Care for the Planet
We travel with a light footprint and we seek ways to protect and celebrate Earth’s biodiversity and ecosystems.
Charitable Giving
Each year, we donate 1% of our revenue to a variety of causes across our destinations and in the UK, each aligning with our values.
Where It All Began...
It all began with a 28,000km cycle to Australia. Founder Oli Broom fell in love with watching the world roll by under his wheels and wanted to share that joy with others. Read more.