Hereford Castle once stood proudly as one of England's key defences against Welsh attacks.

Second only to Windsor Castle in size, it was a stronghold for King Henry IV, who based himself there for 11 years from 1400 as he prepared for campaigns into Wales.

But Hereford Castle slid into decline when it was sold to Sir Richard Harley after the Civil War.

Its remains were dismantled and used for other city buildings while the site was landscaped into a Castle Green public space by 1746.

Castle House hotel (pictured left) sits in the shadow of the former castle, in a quiet corner of Hereford that would once have been a busy crossroads to the castle's gatehouse.

Our room at Castle House overlooked the quiet Castle Street, with a wonderful view of Hereford Cathedral, just a two-minute walk away.

The 11th century cathedral is home to two world-famous attractions.

The Mappa Mundi is a fascinating medieval map of the world dating from the 13th century. It is the largest to have survived.

Because the map was based on countries' religious significance rather than geography, it doesn't look like a modern globe, but it is fun trying to get your head round.

The cathedral also contains the Chained Library. It dates back to the Middle Ages, when books were so valuable they were kept under lock and key. Dusty tomes are attached to bookcases by chains that allowed them to be read but not removed.

Hereford, which sits on the River Wye, has an array of quaint shops and cafes, perfect for an afternoon's stroll.

But if you want to go further afield, there is plenty to see in Herefordshire -one of Britain's most sparsely populated counties.

About 20 miles away across the Welsh border, Hay-on-Wye is great for book fans.

Known as the "town of books", it is home to the famous June literary festival that attracts up to 80,000 people.

Also worth a visit is Ross-on-Wye, 15 miles from Hereford and the only town within the Wye Valley - an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty perfect for walking.

You can recharge your batteries after walking across the dramatic landscape at Orles Barn, a five-star restaurant that serves food a cut above regular country pub fare.

But after a busy day's sightseeing, returning to Castle House is the perfect place to relax and indulge yourself.

A meal in Castle House hotel's newly refurbished restaurant (pictured right) is a real treat, with melt-in-the-mouth beef, the best I've ever tasted.

It's perhaps unsurprising the food is so good when you learn most of the produce comes from the owner's farm.

The 1,000-acre Ballingham Hall Farm, eight miles from Hereford, has been in David Watkins' family for 120 years.

Beef from his 100-strong pedigree Hereford herd is included in recipes alongside vegetables and potatoes from local producers.

David farmed with his father and grandfather, and now runs the business with his son, George. And he certainly believes in keeping things in the family. Daughter Rebecca also works in the hotel.

Hereford Castle might be long gone, but a stay at Castle House hotel will leave you feeling like royalty.

A double room with a full Hereford breakfast at Castle House costs £190 per night. Singles cost £130, junior suites £195 and larger Castle suites cost £230 per night.

Among special offers available are rooms for just £50 per person when you dine in the Castle House restaurant on Sunday nights.

For the latest offers and more information, phone 01432 356321, email info@castlehse.co.uk or visit www.castlehse.co.uk.