Best attractions and places to see around Croft And Yarpole, a civil parish in Herefordshire, England, offer a blend of history, nature, and community. Located north of Hereford, the area is characterized by significant landmarks and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient castles, historic churches, and Iron Age hill forts, alongside expansive parklands and forests. The region provides diverse opportunities for exploration, from walking routes near Croft Castle to discovering things to do in Yarpole.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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The remnants of a much bigger forest, high on a hill. Very atmospheric place.
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The ruins of Ludlow castle is on a promontory overlooking the River Teme. It was one of the first stone castles to be built in England and dates back to the 11th century.
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You do get a view of the distant Welsh Hills from the summit, but you need to stand on the bench to get a good view as the trees are starting to grow and block it out.
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Can't believe this castle is still standing, it is amazing and well worth the near £10 for a visit and to get inside.
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What a beautiful old town to visit. The buildings are amazing and so full of character. Anywhere you look, you will look in amazement at these old structures.
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Although originally made up of ancient royal chases and deer parks, the forest we see today was largely planted by the Forestry Commission in the 1920s. It was named after the Mortimer Family, Norman Lords who held power over the region for some 300 years.
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High Vinnalls is the highest point in Mortimer Forest at 1,230 feet (375 m) and is considered part of the Shropshire Hills family, despite being in North Herefordshire. It rewards hikers with a massive vista of wild Mid Wales to the west, as well as a tick for Marilyn baggers. The Mortimer Trail, a 30-mile (48 km) hike from Ludlow to Kington, passes over the summit.
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The area is rich in history. You can visit Croft Castle and Parkland, a significant castellated manor house with nearly 1,000 years of history. Nearby, Ludlow Castle is one of the earliest stone castles in England. Don't miss Croft Ambrey, an Iron Age hill fort with traces of ancient fortifications, or St. Leonard's Church in Yarpole, known for its detached 12th-century bell tower.
The region offers beautiful natural landscapes. Explore the 1,500 acres of historic parkland at Croft Castle, featuring woodlands, farmland, and the picturesque Fishpool Valley. You can also visit Mortimer Forest, known for its hilly trails and diverse wildlife, or Bircher Common, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Croft Castle and its extensive parkland offer plenty of space for exploration and walks. Mortimer Forest has various circular trails suitable for different ages. Additionally, the nearby medieval market town of Ludlow Town Centre provides a fascinating experience with its historic buildings and independent shops.
Yarpole is home to the award-winning Yarpole Community Shop & Cafe, uniquely housed within St. Leonard's Church. This vibrant hub provides essential services, fosters social engagement, and even includes a gallery cafe with disabled access. The refurbished Yarpole Parish Hall also serves as a welcoming venue for local groups and events.
Absolutely. Croft Castle is set within 1,500 acres of parkland with numerous walking opportunities. You can explore the woodlands, farmland, and the restored Fishpool Valley. The Iron Age hill fort of Croft Ambrey is also accessible via walks from the castle grounds. For more detailed routes, you can find various hiking trails in the area on the Hiking around Croft And Yarpole guide.
Mortimer Forest offers invigorating, hilly trails with diverse wildlife. It's an excellent spot for walking and hiking, with various circular trails of differing difficulty levels. The forest's highest point is High Vinnalls Summit, which provides extensive views of Mid Wales. You can discover more trails in the Hiking around Croft And Yarpole guide.
Yes, Croft Ambrey is an Iron Age hill fort situated on high ground adjoining the National Trust Croft Castle parkland. You can easily walk to it from Croft Castle, enjoying scenic views and exploring the traces of ancient fortifications. The Mortimer Trail, a 30-mile long-distance footpath, also passes through the area, including Croft Ambrey.
Yes, there are several easy walking options. The parkland around Croft Castle offers gentle paths, and the Fishpool Valley has restored trails. For specific easy routes, consider trails like the "View of Fishpool Valley – Lime Kiln Entrance loop" or the "Stone Gatehouse – Croft Castle loop" which are listed as easy in the Hiking around Croft And Yarpole guide.
For stunning vistas, head to Bircher Common, located adjacent to Croft Castle, which offers panoramic views extending as far as the Welsh Mountains. Another excellent viewpoint is High Vinnalls Summit in Mortimer Forest, providing extensive views of Mid Wales.
The area is beautiful year-round, but for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the parklands, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings blooming gardens and fresh greenery, while autumn showcases spectacular fall foliage in places like Croft Castle Parkland and Mortimer Forest. Summer is also popular, though it can be busier.
In Yarpole, the Yarpole Community Shop & Cafe, located within St. Leonard's Church, is a great spot for refreshments and local produce. Near Croft Castle, you might find options within the National Trust property itself, or in the surrounding villages. The nearby town of Ludlow Town Centre also offers a wide array of independent shops, restaurants, and pubs.
The area around Croft And Yarpole is excellent for various outdoor sports. You can enjoy extensive hiking and running trails, particularly in Croft Castle parkland and Mortimer Forest. There are also numerous road cycling routes through the picturesque Herefordshire lanes. For specific routes and guides, check out the Hiking around Croft And Yarpole, Running Trails around Croft And Yarpole, and Road Cycling Routes around Croft And Yarpole guides.


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