Black and White House Museum, Hereford
Step into 17th-century Hereford at the Black and White House Museum, a beautifully preserved timber-framed Jacobean home with rich history and engaging exhibits.
The Black and White House Museum in Hereford is a beautifully preserved 17th-century timber-framed building dating back to 1621. Originally a butcher’s home and shop, it now serves as a museum showcasing Jacobean life with an internationally important collection of English oak furniture, rare wall paintings, and interactive exhibits. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am–5pm and Sundays 11am–4pm, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Hereford’s history and culture.
A brief summary to Black and White House Museum
- High Town, Hereford, Hereford, HR1 2AA, GB
- +441432260694
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better access to interactive exhibits.
- Take advantage of the virtual tour on the ground floor if stairs are a challenge.
- Look out for special events and performances that bring the museum’s history to life.
- Explore nearby attractions like Hereford Cathedral and the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery for a full cultural day.
- Check the museum’s website or contact them for the latest information on opening hours and ticket offers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Bus
Local bus services run regularly to Hereford city centre, stopping within a short walk of the museum. Travel times vary depending on your starting point, typically 15 to 40 minutes from nearby towns. Tickets cost around £2 to £5, with concessions available. Note that service frequency may reduce on Sundays.
-
Car
Driving to the museum is convenient with several public car parks nearby. Parking fees range from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour depending on location and time of day. Be aware that city centre parking can be busy during peak hours and weekends.
-
Walking
If you are already in Hereford city centre, the museum is easily accessible on foot via paved streets. Walking times from central landmarks such as Hereford Cathedral are about 10 to 15 minutes on mostly flat terrain, suitable for all fitness levels.
Black and White House Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Black and White House Museum
A Living Testament to Jacobean Hereford
Nestled in the heart of Hereford’s High Town, the Black and White House Museum stands as a striking example of Jacobean timber-framed architecture, built in 1621. This Grade I listed building began its life as a butcher’s home and shop, witnessing centuries of Hereford’s evolving urban landscape. The structure’s iconic black and white timber framing is not only visually captivating but also a rare surviving artifact from the early 17th century, offering visitors a tangible connection to England’s past.Immersive Historical Interiors and Collections
Inside, the museum is furnished in authentic period style, featuring an internationally important collection of English oak furniture. Visitors can explore rooms adorned with rare wall paintings, a four-poster bed, and even baby-walkers, each piece telling stories of domestic life in Jacobean times. The upper floors provide a richly detailed glimpse into 17th-century living, while the ground floor offers a fully accessible virtual tour, tactile images, and Braille materials to accommodate all visitors.Engaging Experiences for All Ages
The museum offers hands-on activities designed especially for children, including replica clothing and puzzles that bring history to life in an interactive way. Educational and engaging, it invites visitors to step back in time and experience the daily rhythms of a bygone era. Special events and performances occasionally add to the museum’s vibrant cultural offerings, deepening the connection to Hereford’s heritage.Conservation and Preservation Efforts
Recent specialist conservation work on the exterior was completed ahead of schedule, ensuring the building’s historic fabric remains intact for future generations. This careful restoration preserves the museum’s unique character while allowing visitors to enjoy the building in its full glory. The museum has remained open throughout these works, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility and public engagement.Location and Visitor Amenities
Situated centrally, the museum is surrounded by public amenities including nearby car parks and public toilets, enhancing visitor convenience. The location within Hereford’s historic core makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other local attractions such as Hereford Cathedral and the Hereford Museum and Art Gallery. The museum’s gift shop offers unique souvenirs reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.Opening Hours and Admission
The Black and White House Museum welcomes visitors Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sundays from 11am to 4pm, with Mondays closed. Admission is modest, with adults paying a small fee to access the period rooms, while children and students enter free. Special offers, such as combined tickets with guidebooks, provide excellent value for those wishing to deepen their understanding of the site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monkey Puzzle Trees
30.0 km
Striking evergreen Monkey Puzzle Trees on historic Hergest Ridge, a peaceful highlight along Offa’s Dyke Path near Kington.
The Bee Shelter, Hartpury
31.5 km
Discover Hartpury’s unique 19th-century Bee Shelter, a stunning stone monument celebrating Gloucestershire’s rich beekeeping heritage and Victorian craftsmanship.
Raglan Castle
33.1 km
Discover the enchanting Raglan Castle, a majestic medieval fortress in Wales, steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Castell Rhaglan / Raglan Castle
33.2 km
Discover the history and beauty of Raglan Castle, a stunning medieval landmark in Wales that offers a glimpse into the past.
Great Days Out UK
33.5 km
Discover the best of Gloucester at Great Days Out UK, your ultimate Tourist Information Centre for local attractions and travel tips.
National Trust - The Firs: Elgar's Birthplace
33.5 km
Explore The Firs, Elgar's Birthplace, a serene museum celebrating the life and legacy of England's beloved composer in Worcestershire's picturesque countryside.
Abergavenny Museum
33.5 km
Explore the rich history of Abergavenny at its charming museum, showcasing local heritage, art, and culture in a beautifully restored Victorian building.
National Trust - Ashleworth Tithe Barn
34.0 km
Explore the historic Ashleworth Tithe Barn, a beautifully preserved medieval structure showcasing England's agricultural heritage amidst stunning countryside.
Dinas Castle
34.6 km
Unveil the history and beauty of Dinas Castle, a remarkable medieval fortress in Brecon that promises breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience.
Harold's Stones
34.9 km
Three Bronze Age megaliths wrapped in legend, mystery, and 3,500 years of Welsh history.
Whinyard Rocks
35.8 km
Discover the beauty of Whinyard Rocks Vineyard in Presteigne, where exceptional wines meet stunning countryside views.
Witley Court & Gardens
35.9 km
Explore the grandeur of Witley Court & Gardens, where history, architecture, and nature unite in a stunning English estate experience.
Talgarth Mill
36.0 km
Explore the charm of Talgarth Mill, where history, artisanal bakery delights, and local crafts come together in a scenic Welsh setting.
Bronllys Castle
36.4 km
Explore the medieval charm of Bronllys Castle, a historical landmark in Wales, set amidst breathtaking landscapes perfect for a tranquil getaway.
Crickhowell Castle
36.4 km
Discover the historic charm of Crickhowell Castle, a medieval marvel set against the breathtaking backdrop of Wales' stunning landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dylan's Den Crystal Shop
0.1 km
Discover a vibrant collection of crystals, jewellery, and homeware in Hereford’s welcoming Dylan's Den Crystal Shop.
Hereford Cathedral
0.3 km
Explore Hereford Cathedral’s 1,300-year legacy, medieval masterpieces, and serene gardens in the heart of historic Hereford.
Hereford Museum and Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore Herefordshire’s rich heritage and art in a stunning Victorian Gothic museum, soon to be reborn with a modern, accessible makeover.
Old Market Hereford
0.3 km
Hereford’s vibrant open-air shopping and leisure destination with top brands, eateries, cinema, and family-friendly amenities.
King Street Kitchen
0.3 km
Cozy Hereford café serving fresh, locally sourced British breakfasts, lunches, and homemade cakes with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Lion
0.5 km
Step into Hereford’s oldest pub, The Black Lion, where Tudor history, hearty British fare, and ghostly legends blend in a warm, timeless atmosphere.
Castle Green
0.5 km
Historic riverside park in Hereford with scenic walks, a Nelson monument, and a vibrant pavilion café overlooking the River Wye.
The Hereford Labyrinth
0.6 km
Discover the peaceful beauty and historical significance of the Hereford Labyrinth, a serene landmark in Bishops Meadow, Hereford.
Brook Retail Park
0.7 km
A practical, no-frills retail park in Hereford with a strong focus on pet care, groceries, and everyday essentials, ideal for quick, efficient shopping trips.
Apple Store Gallery
0.8 km
A small, independent art gallery in Hereford with rotating local exhibitions, bespoke framing and creative studios – a quiet gem for art lovers and makers.
Museum of Cider
0.8 km
Discover the rich heritage of cider making in Hereford’s historic Bulmers factory with tastings, exhibits, and interactive experiences.
Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum
0.9 km
Discover the proud history of Herefordshire’s volunteer regiment through intimate exhibits and personal stories at the Herefordshire Light Infantry Museum.
Waterworks Museum - Hereford
1.6 km
Explore Hereford’s historic Waterworks Museum with its working steam engines, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly water park in a Victorian landmark setting.
Rotherwas Chapel
3.0 km
Discover Rotherwas Chapel, a serene historic sanctuary blending centuries of English heritage and architectural beauty in Hereford.
Mordiford Dragon Trail
6.6 km
Explore Mordiford’s enchanting 1.4-mile Dragon Trail, where legend, history, and scenic beauty weave a captivating village adventure.
Essential places to dine
La Madeleine
0.1 km
Experience authentic French flavors and cozy café charm in the heart of Hereford at La Madeleine, your go-to spot for breakfast and light meals.
The Rocket Cafe
0.2 km
A warm, independent café in Hereford serving hearty breakfasts, artisan coffee, and delicious homemade cakes in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Sensory & Rye
0.2 km
A vibrant Hereford café serving hearty brunches, artisan coffee, and fresh, inclusive dishes in a relaxed, spacious setting.
Bill's Kitchen Hereford
0.2 km
Historic 11th-century church café serving home-cooked, locally sourced food with inclusive menus and a warm community vibe in Hereford.
Cotto
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and generous hospitality in the heart of historic Hereford at Cotto.
La'De Kitchen Hereford
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Hereford at La'De Kitchen, your gateway to Eastern Mediterranean cuisine.
The Beefy Boys
0.3 km
Savor gourmet burgers crafted from premium meats in the vibrant heart of Hereford’s Old Market, blending quality with a lively atmosphere.
The Bookshop
0.3 km
A modern British restaurant in Hereford offering award-winning Sunday lunches, charcoal-grilled steaks, and vibrant brunches in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Simply Thai Kitchen
0.3 km
Authentic Thai cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm service in the heart of Hereford’s city center.
AMAZING ASIA BUFFET
0.3 km
A vibrant all-you-can-eat Asian buffet blending Indian, Thai, and Bangladeshi flavors in the heart of Hereford.
Miller & Carter Hereford
0.3 km
Contemporary steakhouse in Hereford’s Old Market serving expertly cooked prime cuts with attentive service in a modern, welcoming setting.
Ponte Vecchio
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Ponte Vecchio, Hereford’s premier Italian restaurant on Bridge Street.
The Bay Horse Inn
3.4 km
A welcoming country pub and restaurant in Hereford offering hearty meals, comfortable rooms, and a tranquil rural setting.
Bunch of Carrots
4.4 km
A warm, family-friendly country pub near Hereford serving hearty carvery and local brews in a cosy, rustic setting.
Carriages Restaurant
6.2 km
Experience exquisite British cuisine and stunning countryside views in a unique railway-inspired setting at Carriages Restaurant, Hereford.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Works
0.0 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery at The Works in Hereford’s bustling Commercial Street.
Cherry Savidge
0.1 km
Discover exclusive womenswear and designer occasion wear at Cherry Savidge, Hereford's bright and elegant fashion boutique.
Flannels
0.1 km
Discover luxury fashion and personalized styling at Flannels, Hereford’s premier designer clothing and accessories store on Commercial Street.
Lunaria Lifestyle
0.1 km
Discover tasteful, unique home décor at Lunaria Lifestyle, a charming boutique in the heart of Hereford’s Maylord Street.
View
0.1 km
Discover curated ladies' fashion in Hereford’s charming boutique on Church Street, blending style with personalized service.
Philip Morris & Son
0.1 km
A historic family-run department store in Hereford offering quality homewares, clothing, and outdoor equipment with exceptional service since 1845.
Maylord Orchards
0.1 km
A vibrant shopping centre in Hereford blending popular brands with local charm and community spirit.
Cardzone
0.2 km
Discover thoughtful cards and gifts at Cardzone Hereford, your friendly local shop for every special occasion and celebration.
The Magpie
0.3 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures in Hereford’s charming Magpie shop, open Tuesday to Saturday on Commercial Road.
Menkind
0.3 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind, Hereford’s ultimate destination for fun and innovative presents.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky gifts at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Hereford’s vibrant Old Market.
Pritchards
0.3 km
Classic and designer menswear in Hereford’s historic heart, blending timeless style with modern elegance.
Motherfudgecrackers
1.0 km
Discover quirky gifts and nostalgic treasures at Motherfudgecrackers, Hereford’s charming and unique gift shop on Hinton Road.
Jack Wills
1.0 km
Experience quintessential British style with Jack Wills’ blend of heritage-inspired fashion and modern trends in Hereford’s Old Market.
Dunelm
1.5 km
Your one-stop homewares and furnishings store in Hereford’s Spur Retail Park, offering variety, quality, and unique finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gordon Bennetts
0.1 km
A vibrant Hereford pub blending real ales, lively music, and welcoming charm in a historic city setting.
The Lichfield Vaults
0.1 km
Traditional Hereford pub with a Greek twist, real ales, and a sunny beer garden in a historic setting.
Saxtys - Independent Cocktail Bar, Restaurant & Club
0.2 km
A lively independent cocktail bar, restaurant, and club in Hereford offering fresh local food, expertly crafted drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
The Queens Arms
0.2 km
Experience authentic Hereford hospitality with lively music, classic pies, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Queens Arms.
The Jam Factory
0.2 km
A vibrant independent bar in Hereford offering unique cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere with plant-based street food.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Eclectic British dining and vibrant bar atmosphere in the heart of Hereford’s historic Widemarsh Street.
The Herdsman
0.2 km
A friendly family-run pub in Hereford offering homemade food, lively pub games, and a welcoming atmosphere from morning till midnight.
The Stables
0.2 km
Historic pub in Hereford serving hearty British classics with a lively atmosphere and warm hospitality.
The Spread Eagle
0.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly traditional pub in Hereford’s city centre, serving hearty British fare and local ales by a welcoming log burner.
Hogarths
0.3 km
Discover Hogarths, Hereford’s Victorian gin palace with 120+ gins, elegant interiors, and a magical outdoor garden retreat.
The Orange Tree Hereford
0.4 km
Traditional Hereford pub famed for Black Country ales, cozy ambiance, and a lively beer garden in the city center.
The Barrels
0.4 km
Historic 18th-century coaching inn with lively multi-room charm, large courtyard, excellent beer, and a welcoming social scene in Hereford.
Rose & Crown
1.3 km
A classic 1930s Hereford pub blending traditional charm, lively sports, and hearty modern British fare in a welcoming setting.
The Swan Inn
2.1 km
A charming and friendly pub in Hereford offering hearty meals, cozy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere near Offa’s Dyke Path.
Cock of Tupsley
2.4 km
A friendly and classic British pub in Hereford’s Tupsley, offering hearty meals, gluten-free options, and a warm community atmosphere every day.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Trilogy Hereford
0.2 km
Experience Hereford’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy until the early morning hours.
Tramps Nightclub
36.9 km
Worcester’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering energetic dance floors, diverse music, and a lively social scene in the heart of the city.
Bushwackers
37.0 km
Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Bushwackers, a dynamic nightclub with diverse music, multiple bars, and a popular outdoor chill-out area.
Sin
37.1 km
Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Sin, a lively nightclub known for energetic music, salsa nights, and a bustling dance floor in the city centre.
The Flag
37.3 km
Worcester’s vibrant LGBT nightclub and gay bar, The Flag offers lively late-night entertainment and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Jax Nightclub Gloucester
38.7 km
Energetic nightclub in Gloucester offering diverse music, two dance floors, and a welcoming atmosphere for late-night fun.
Bar Fever Gloucester
38.9 km
Experience Gloucester’s vibrant nightlife at Bar Fever, a trendy nightclub with dynamic music, stylish interiors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
ATIK Gloucester
39.1 km
Gloucester’s largest nightclub, ATIK pulses with vibrant music, student nights, and an energetic party atmosphere until the early hours.
The New Inn
40.3 km
Experience the charm of Welsh hospitality at The New Inn, a delightful pub in Bwlch, perfect for unwinding after exploring Brecon Beacons.
The Lion - Bar & Nightclub
46.3 km
A vibrant bar and nightclub blending historic charm with lively nightlife in the heart of Chepstow.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
46.9 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Cheltenham’s Home and Botanic, a multi-room club offering cocktails, live piano, DJs, and unforgettable nights.
Thirteen Degrees
46.9 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Under the Prom
47.0 km
Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife with premium drinks, three unique bars, and VIP service at Under The Prom nightclub.
2 PIGS
47.1 km
A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Popworld - Cheltenham
47.1 km
Cheltenham’s lively late-night hotspot where cheesy pop tunes and creative cocktails fuel unforgettable party nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Educational
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly