Hereford

Hereford Cathedral, from Church Street

The Old House, High Town, Hereford - geograph.org.uk - 11172

Town Hall, Hereford - geograph.org.uk - 739270

Greyfriars Bridge - geograph.org.uk - 854117

Hereford, High Street pedestrian shopping area

Hereford is a cathedral city in the county of Herefordshire, England. It stands on the River Wye, approximately 16 miles (26 km) east of the border with Wales, 24 miles (39 km) southwest of Worcester, and 23 miles (37 km) northwest of Gloucester. With a population of approximately 60,800, it is the largest settlement in Herefordshire.

History

Hereford's history dates back to the 7th century when it became the seat of a bishopric. The city's Hereford Cathedral dates from 1079 and is home to the Mappa Mundi, a medieval map of the world dating from the 13th century which is of great historical and geographical interest. Hereford played a significant role in the conflicts between the English and the Welsh, and its strategic importance was marked by the construction of Hereford Castle, which has since been demolished.

Economy

The economy of Hereford has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly cattle farming, which led to the city being known for the Hereford breed of cattle. In recent years, the city has diversified its economy, with the retail, services, and manufacturing sectors becoming increasingly important. The city is also known for its production of cider, with companies such as Bulmers having a significant presence.

Culture

Hereford is rich in culture, with the Hereford Cathedral being a central cultural landmark. The city hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Hereford Photography Festival and the Hereford Food Festival. The Courtyard Centre for the Arts is a key venue for theatre, cinema, and music.

Education

Hereford is home to several educational institutions, including the Hereford College of Arts and the National College for the Blind. It also has a range of primary and secondary schools, both state and independent.

Transport

The city is well-connected by road and rail. The A49 road runs through Hereford, connecting it to Shrewsbury in the north and Gloucester in the south. Hereford railway station offers services to destinations including Manchester, Birmingham, and London.

Notable People

Several notable individuals hail from Hereford, including composer Edward Elgar, actor David Garrick, and contemporary artist Walenty Pytel.

See Also

• Herefordshire
• River Wye
• Hereford Cathedral
• Mappa Mundi