Eastnor Castle has been in the Hervey-Bathurst family for more than 200 years. James Hervey-Bathurst is the current custodian, having inherited Eastnor Castle through his mother. He tells Philippa May about this life there
James Hervey-Bathurst has always harboured an interest in historical buildings and architecture and has been closely involved with the preservation of historic architecture and cultural heritage in Great Britain.
He became the vice-president of European Historic Houses and was also invested as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in recognition of his services to national heritage.
HAVE YOU ALWAYS LIVED IN HEREFORDSHIRE? WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER ABOUT GROWING UP HERE?
No, I have lived in London for 18 years and almost one year in Tehran. I remember a very happy childhood roaming the estate and bicycling a lot. I never wanted to go away on holiday.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE HEREFORDSHIRE TO PEOPLE WHO DON’T KNOW IT?
Herefordshire still appears to be a predominantly agricultural place, with long views to the Welsh hills to the west and south and the Malvern Hills to the east.
It can be compared with Cumbria:a borders county with ruined castles, old churches and market towns, with great natural beauty and fine built heritage with much traditional agricultural activity.
AND IF A STRANGER ONLY HAD TIME TO VISIT ONE PLACE, WHERE WOULD YOU SUGGEST?
Hereford Cathedral
WHAT MAKES HEREFORDSHIRE PEOPLE SPECIAL?
I think we all share in the secret delights of the county, which are sometimes overlooked by others.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO IN THE COUNTY ON A DAY OFF?
I love a walk from Eastnor to Chase End Hill at the southern end of the Malvern Hills, returning through Eastnor Park
WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO EAT?
The Inn at Welland (Worcestershire) or the Feathers Hotel, Ledbury
WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO MEET FRIENDS FOR A DRINK AND A CATCH-UP?
Eastnor Cricket Club for a drink or the Woodshed, Eastnor Park, for coffee or tea.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE WALK – OR VIEW?
The view of the Malvern Hills from the terrace of Eastnor Castle, especially as the sun sets on the hills.
WHAT’S THE VERY BEST THING ABOUT THE COUNTY?
Its natural beauty
WHAT WOULD MAKE HEREFORDSHIRE AN EVEN BETTER PLACE TO LIVE?
Improved broadband and a bypass for Hereford.
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