Upcoming Events 

Please see below for details of various events we will be attending and participating in that will help you get the most out of life and learn to "tread softly upon this Earth". 
 
Set in beautiful surroundings, book early to avoid disappointment. 
 

Pop-up Pub and the History of Queenswood 

An enchanting evening as the Woodlands Cafe becomes a Pop Up Pub! Fascinating talks, delicious pub grub, and a lively Herefordshire quiz. 
Event Details: 
 
Discover the vibrant history of this ancient woodland while indulging in a two-course meal at the charming Woodlands Café. Fun, food, and fascinating facts await! 
 
Set in a 17th Century building, the Woodlands Cafe was brought to the park in 1990. The building, a former public house, was once owned by Hampton Courts Sir Thomas Coningsby. The final pints were pulled at the Essex Arms in the 1960’s before the building was dismantled. 
 
Our event, offers a unique opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of this ancient site and its buildings. Held on the hilltop where oak trees once stretched to the Welsh borders, Queenswood's journey from royal hunting ground to cherished country park is one of resilience and regeneration. 
 
The evening will begin with engaging history of the site, brought to life by local resident Nadine Carr, who will share captivating stories about the woodland's transformation. Learn how the area was clear-felled for timber during the First World War, the subsequent public appeals that saved it from development, and its eventual rebirth as a nature reserve and arboretum. 
 
After the talk you will enjoy a delightful meal featuring some fabulous, locally-sourced pub grub. 
 
Local sausage with creamy mash, served with rich onion gravy, buttered greens, and a crispy onion and bacon topping. 
Apple and blackberry crumble with locally sourced apples and homemade custard. 
Vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options available. 
Local cider and beer available for purchase throughout the evening. 
 
Following dinner, participate in a lively pub quiz focused on Herefordshire’s rich history. This event is a wonderful chance to connect with nature enthusiasts, history buffs and the local community, while celebrating the legacy of Queenswood. 
Date: 
May 2025 - Specific date t.b.a. 
 
Time: 
6pm - 10pm 
 
Meeting point: 
Queenswood Country Park 
Dinmore Hill, Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 0PY 
 
Cost: 
t.b.a. 
PREVIOUS EVENTS 

A Guided Exploration of the Wildlife and Natural Landscapes of the Doward 

A full-day experience exploring the Doward; guided walks, geology, habitats, biodiversity and history with a locally source picnic. 
Event Details: 
 
This exclusive experience offered nature connections through informal discussions on geology, historical land use, vegetation, species richness, habitat management and recreational activities on biodiversity. Attendees also enjoyed a picnic prepared by Herefordshire Wildlife's Woodlands Cafe team. 
 
The Doward is a rich mosaic of habitats containing over 5,400 recorded species, including some endemic plants unique to this small area together with a good number of other nationally rare and scarce plants and invertebrates, plus some uncommon birds and mammals. Located in the heart of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and a network of nature reserves and SSSIs. 
 
The walk was co-led by naturalist Ian Draycott, author of "The Biodiversity of the Doward and Symond’s Yat West," and geographer Nic Howes, creator of the "Wild Walks" series in the Trust’s Wildside magazine. 
 
As attendees explored semi-ancient woodlands, meadows, old limestone quarries, and other historical remnants, and heard about the importance of geology to vegetation, the relationships between vegetation types and human land use, and the historical impacts on current land use. Discussions also covered species richness and scarcity, the significance of lesser-known species groups, habitat management versus rewilding, and the impact of invasive species on local biodiversity.  
 
In addition, attendees discovered how recreational activities affect biodiversity and learn about the challenges and opportunities in managing these precious habitats. 
 
After the walk, everyone enjoyed an al-fresco picnic featuring locally sourced products in a relaxed atmosphere. Following lunch, they then participated in an engaging and interactive talk about the history and folklore of the area led by Nadine Carr, a Fellow of the Society for Nature Connectivity.  
 
Nadine's talk delved into the rich cultural heritage of Doward, illustrating how nature and human history are intricately intertwined. Her work emphasizes the benefits of connecting with nature for mental and physical well-being, helping people learn to “tread softly upon this earth.” 
 
All profits from this event went towards funding the charity's important conservation work. 
Date: 
Friday 30th August 2024 
 
Time: 
10am - 4pm 
 
Meeting point: 
Lord's Wood Car Park 
The Doward, Ross-On-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 6D 
 
Cost: 
£80 per person