2 Best Hotels in Ledbury, Stratford-upon-Avon and the Heart of England

You can’t miss the striking black-and-white facade of this centrally located Tudor hotel, which dates from the 16th century. Its interior has a satisfyingly antique flavor, with wooden beams, creaking staircases, and ancient floorboards; some rooms have four-poster beds, and some have a teddy bear propped up on the pillow to welcome you. A bright and welcoming coffee shop is downstairs, or you can book a table in the colorful main restaurant for seasonal mains, such as grilled hake or slow-braised Herefordshire ox cheek. Afternoon tea is available.

This beautiful vineyard, just a 15-minute drive from Ledbury, comes with a choice of guest rooms or lodges (the latter have rolltop baths) that overlook the vines or are set within them. The modern rooms are spacious and comfortable but not overly fussy. Three Choirs Vineyard (named after a famous choral festival that rotates between Hereford, Worcester, and Gloucester) kickstarted the English wine industry back in the 1970s and has never looked back. There are no tours, but guests can enjoy tapas-style dishes in the restaurant or charcuterie boards alongside a self-guided wine tasting.