FOUR local business have been shortlisted in the inaugural Visit Herefordshire Tourism Awards.

Visit Herefordshire, which celebrates the best of the county’s thriving tourism sector, is hosting these awards to provide an opportunity for businesses to be recognised among the country’s finest.

The categories span a range of sectors, including accommodation, visitor attractions, food and drink, sustainability and accessibility, among others.

The Ross-on-Wye shortlisted businesses are the Hostelerie at Goodrich which is a finalist inbed and breakfast / Guesthouse of the Year category; The Wythall Estate Vineyard in Walford is a finalist in the ‘Experience of the Year’ category; The New Inn at St Owens Cross is a finalist in the ‘Pub of the Year’ category and the Rapids Cottage in Symonds Yat is a finalist in the ‘self-catering accommodation of the year’ category.

The businesses are now in the second round of judging, where independent industry professionals will conduct site visits.

The winners of the Visit Herefordshire Tourism Awards will be unveiled in February 2025, thanks to the headline sponsors Hello Starling.

Diane Mansell, chief executive of Herefordshire County BID/Visit Herefordshire, said: “The quality and diversity of the businesses represented is a testament to the strength of Herefordshire’s tourism sector. This year’s awards have drawn a fantastic response, and we look forward to celebrating the region’s best with the local tourism community in February 2025.”

● The Rapids Cottage at Symonds Yat features has a décor that reflects the tranquillity of nature and is filled with rustic charm. Built in 1850, the cottage is full of the simple luxuries of life, designed to enable visitors to unwind.

The retreat is a sanctuary perfect for rural romantics. It benefits from a traditional artisan tin bath and a hot-tub located within the surrounding beauty of the natural.

● Wythall Estate Vineyard in Walford was formed in 2010 using grape varieties chosen to suit the climate and soil conditions. From these several award winning still and sparkling wines are produced.

The vineyard benefits from a unique micro‑climate created by the surrounding undulating terrain which protects the vines from cold weather and ingeniously harnesses the warmth of the sun during the growing season.

Vineyard tours and tutored wine tastings regularly take place and these include a walking tour of the Vineyard where visitors will be shown the methods used in the management of vines from planting through to harvesting. A tutored tasting follows in the dining room of the 16th century manor house.

● The Hostelrie is an 18th Century pub with rooms located in Goodrich and is packed with character. The traditional pub and restaurant was acquired by Daniel and Katherine Balanovsky in 2021, who have since transformed it, enhancing many original features.

The Hostelrie has eight letting bedrooms, while the pub offers several menus with the food being made in house, from fresh ingredients that showcase simple dishes packed with loads of flavour.  The bar has a large range of beers and ciders along with at least 12 wines.

● The New Inn at St Owen’s Cross is already on a winning streak, having already been voted Midlands Gastro Pub of the Year 2024. The pub, led by head chef Thomas Leak, has demonstrated that the team are champions of local food and produce exciting menus both for an informal drinking and dining experience as well as an a la carte menu.

Mr Leak said: “We’re thrilled to have been shortlisted as a finalist in the Pub of the Year category. It’s a reflection of the hard work and commitment from the entire team, offering drinkers and diners alike a fabulous experience. We champion all that is great and good in Herefordshire, from fantastic local ciders and beers to incredible ingredients which we incorporate into our dishes.”