Blackfriars Friary and Rose Gardens
A fragrant historical gem in Hereford, featuring 14th-century ruins and 28 meticulously maintained rose beds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful blooms and fewer visitors
Blackfriars Friary and Rose Gardens
Best Time
Peaceful blooms and fewer visitors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fragrant historical gem in Hereford, featuring 14th-century ruins and 28 meticulously maintained rose beds.
"A lovely and almost historical gem in the heart of Hereford. A very tranquil place to sit or walk around."
👃 Smell the Roses
Visit during bloom season for the most fragrant experience. :rose:
🚶♀️ Wander the Ruins
Take time to explore the friary remnants and imagine its history. :old_key:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rose Gardens
Blackfriars Priory grounds
A fragrant oasis with 28 beds showcasing a stunning array of roses, a testament to community care.
The Preaching Cross
Adjacent to the Rose Gardens
A rare 14th-century Gothic structure, offering a glimpse into medieval religious life.
Friary Ruins
Within the garden grounds
Evocative remnants of a 13th-century Dominican friary, whispering tales of the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Embrace the History and Blooms
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👃 Smell the Roses
Visit during bloom season for the most fragrant experience. :rose:
🚶♀️ Wander the Ruins
Take time to explore the friary remnants and imagine its history. :old_key:
🤝 Support the Gardens
Volunteer or donate to the 'Friends of Blackfriars Rose Gardens' for upkeep. :heart:
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera for stunning floral and architectural shots. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
👃 Smell the Roses
Visit during bloom season for the most fragrant experience. :rose:
🚶♀️ Wander the Ruins
Take time to explore the friary remnants and imagine its history. :old_key:
🤝 Support the Gardens
Volunteer or donate to the 'Friends of Blackfriars Rose Gardens' for upkeep. :heart:
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera for stunning floral and architectural shots. :camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Blackfriars Rose Gardens as a lovely, tranquil historical gem in Hereford, particularly for its fragrant rose displays and the evocative friary ruins. The well-maintained gardens and the unique Preaching Cross are frequently highlighted as charming features. Some visitors note that while beautiful, the gardens are relatively small and best enjoyed during peak bloom season.
"The Blackfriars Rose Garden was established in 1964 within the grounds of the Blackfriars Priory. The garden features 28 rose beds and was initially planted with 100 rose trees donated by the Hereford & West of England Rose Society, with contributions from the Kansas City Rose Society in America. The garden's restoration is ongoing, with volunteers from "The Friends of Blackfriars Rose Gardens" actively involved in replanting and maintaining the beds.
Lovely little place, and smells gorgeous, they keep it really nice as well.
They also have a
Preaching Cross
Built in the 14th century and considerably restored in the 19th century. This is the only surviving example in the county of a Preaching Cross erected by the Friars in the cemetery. The Cross was built in conjunction with the 'Black Friars Monastery by land given the order by Sir John Daniel. Their benefactor was beheaded for interference in baronial wars in the reign of Edward III. The architecture is early decorated Gothic."
Pete / Hel
"A lovely and almost historical gem in the heart of Hereford. A very tranquil place to sit or walk around and admire the gardens and ruins."
Stevie Boy6
"Nice rose bushes. 💜"
Reham Bakheit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The gardens are centrally located in Hereford. If driving, look for city center parking. Public transport options include local buses that stop near the city center. +1
There are several public car parks within walking distance of the gardens in Hereford city center.
Yes, the gardens are easily accessible on foot from most parts of Hereford city center.
Hereford is a walkable city, and many attractions are close to each other. Consider exploring on foot once you arrive.
Use a map app to navigate to the city center, then look for signs directing to Blackfriars or historical sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Blackfriars Rose Gardens is typically free, as it's a public space maintained by volunteers.
The gardens are generally open during daylight hours, but it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes or event closures.
The Preaching Cross is part of the garden area and is usually accessible without a separate fee.
While roses are seasonal, the gardens and ruins can be visited year-round, though the blooms are most spectacular in summer.
Keep an eye out for community events or volunteer-led tours, especially during peak blooming season.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can admire the diverse rose beds, explore the historic Preaching Cross, and wander through the evocative friary ruins. It's a peaceful spot for a stroll.
Absolutely! The vibrant roses and ancient architecture make it a picturesque location for photographers.
Yes, there are usually benches available throughout the gardens, perfect for resting and enjoying the atmosphere.
The roses are typically at their best from late spring through summer, with peak bloom often in July.
It's known for being a tranquil and historical gem, ideal for a peaceful walk and reflection.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the gardens themselves.
Hereford city center offers a wide range of cafes, pubs, and restaurants just a short walk away.
Picnicking is generally permitted in public gardens, but please be mindful of keeping the area clean.
Hereford has a vibrant food scene, from traditional pubs to modern eateries. +1
You'll find everything from classic British fare to international cuisine in the city center. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The rose beds in full bloom, the intricate details of the Preaching Cross, and the atmospheric friary ruins offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and public garden areas. It's best to check local regulations.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the roses and ruins.
Focus on the variety of rose colors and textures, the architectural details of the cross, and the textures of the ancient stones.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to inquire with local authorities or the 'Friends of Blackfriars Rose Gardens' about any permit requirements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Pack a small picnic to enjoy on the grass (if permitted) and encourage children to spot different rose colors. It's a lovely, low-key outing that combines a bit of learning with outdoor fun.
📸 Photographers
Best times for photography are early mornings or late afternoons when the light is soft and golden, enhancing the colors and textures. Look for close-ups of the roses, wide shots of the garden layout, and details of the historical stonework.
🚶♀️ History Buffs
Consider researching the history of the Dominican Order in England and the specific benefactors of the Hereford friary before your visit to enrich your understanding of the site's significance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Blackfriars Priory
The remnants of the friary, including parts of the cloister and other structures, still stand today, offering a tangible connection to this past. The adjacent Preaching Cross, dating back to the 14th century, is a rare surviving example of its kind erected by the friars in their cemetery, showcasing early decorated Gothic architecture.
This historical depth adds a unique layer to the experience of visiting the gardens, transforming a simple stroll into a journey through centuries of local history. It's a place where nature and heritage intertwine beautifully.
The Blackfriars Rose Gardens: A Community Effort
The garden features 28 distinct rose beds, each carefully curated. While the garden has seen its share of challenges, its ongoing restoration is a collaborative effort. Volunteers from 'The Friends of Blackfriars Rose Gardens' are actively involved in replanting, maintaining, and preserving this beautiful space, ensuring its continued charm for visitors.
This community involvement is what makes the gardens so special. It's not just a public park; it's a living project nurtured by local passion, making a visit feel even more rewarding.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit