Illustrated Talks
We offer talks on a range of subjects for groups and organisations that would a presentation brought to their venue. Fully illustrated with slideshows, the talks can offer a more in depth look at some aspects of Hereford and its people, as well as a wider look at some historical events elsewhere in the county.
You can make a booking for any date throughout the year, subject to the availability of the speaker.
The cost of each talk is £60, plus travel expenses.
Please see below for more information about our latest themed talks.
For those organisations and groups planning bookings please contact the Booking Officer via email at bookings@herefordguidedwalks.org.uk or call 07947 924494 to discuss your requirements and book your talk.
Illustrated Talks Overview
Explore the diverse range of illustrated talks offered by the Hereford Guild of Mayor’s Guides, each designed to bring history and heritage to life.
Monks and Friars in Hereford
From the ruins of the Dominican Friary in Widemarsh Street to the x-rated carving of a monk in All Saints, Hereford has a fascinating history of monks and friars. This talk will enlighten you on an interesting period in the story of Hereford’s past.
Agriculture & Industry
A city talk exploring the rich history of Herefordshire’s agriculture and the industries it inspired over the centuries. While the Industrial Revolution left little mark here, the farms and their produce have shaped the region’s identity. Discover the stories behind Ryeland sheep and Hereford cattle, bricks and tiles, gloves and hats, cider and hops, saffron and grapes. Journey from the ancient forests known to Iron Age hilltop settlers and Lord Nelson to the modern polytunnels of today, and experience a fresh perspective on this historic city.
Alfred Watkins – Hereford man of many talents
Born in 1855, Herefordian Alfred Watkins was the man who famously ‘discovered’ ley lines. But this was only one aspect of this multifaceted character. An amateur historian and experimental archaeologist, he was also a talented photographer, inventor, local artist and beekeeper. This talk will take you to his birthplace, school, home and other key locations and introduce you to the man who contributed so much to the city and county of his birth.
The Civil War in Hereford 1642-1645
Hereford, a royal garrison heavily armed and fortified during the Middle Ages, on the front line of the English defence of its border with Wales. Our shire was one of the first to declare for the King when Charles 1st raised his standard at Nottingham in 1642, throwing the country into civil war. Who were the key players locally? What happened in the city and what impact did the war have? The city changed hands more than once as the struggle between King and Parliament played out. (This walk begins outside The Pavilion, Castle Green(what3words ///leave.tile.tribes ))
Æthelflæd , Lady of The Mercians
Æthelflæd, Lady of the Mercians, daughter of King Alfred the Great, Anglo-Saxon queen in all but name. She was instrumental in restoring the Mercian territories seized and occupied by the Vikings, and she laid the foundations for the first unification of all England under her adopted son, Æthelstan. A woman in a man’s world – what kind of woman was she? How did she gain the respect of the powerful lords over whom she governed? How did she succeed when her father failed? This illustrated talk attempts to shed light on this fascinating woman and her life.
The River Runs Through It: Hereford on the Wye
Coming soon.
Historical City talk
This talks enables you to explore Hereford’s history, seeing interesting and historic buildings and landmarks, hearing tales from medieval times to today, including its role in the Civil War and some of its famous people. Our commentary will bring the city’s past alive and reveal hidden depths that may surprise you!
A Herefordshire Air Crash
A World War II Halifax bomber was on a top-secret mission and, tragically, all eleven crew members lost their lives when it crashed. The true cause of the disaster was not revealed until the 1970s. Join us to uncover the reasons behind this secrecy and why the mission connected to this flight played a crucial role in shortening the war and securing victory.
Women in Hereford
Sinners and suffragettes, actresses and artists, this talk will introduce you to some notable female characters from the 15th century through to the present day. Some are famous, or infamous, some are little known or anonymous; each has had an impact on the city, the country and in some cases the world.
Castle Green, Hereford
Castle Green, Hereford likely the location of the very beginning of our ancient city where St. Guthlac’s priory was established. A riverside location identified by the Normans as the best place to build a mighty military garrison to display their power and defend from the Welsh. a medieval royal castle to rival the beauty of Windsor and today a pleasant place to take a stroll. We do not know all of what lies beneath our feet on Castle Green, but this talk will explore what we know.
The Kembles of Hereford; birthplace of a theatrical dynasty
When Roger Kemble left Hereford to find a troupe of actors in 1751, he completely fell in love with the theatre. He also fell for Sarah (Sally) Ward, the daughter of the company’s manager and they were soon married despite her father’s strong objections! But what happened next was extraordinary and led to the rise of a theatrical dynasty who were to dominate the English stage for decades to come. Their eldest daughter, Sarah, became Sarah Siddons, hailed by some as “the most significant actress of all time”, while their eldest son, John Philip became known as “the first actor of the world”. Their story is also part of Hereford’s story and this talk will explore how it too played its part in the arrival of the ‘acting profession’ in England.
The Guild of Guides continues to expand and enrich its programme of illustrated talks as the collective knowledge of its members grows and evolves. With ongoing research, training, and first-hand experience, existing guides regularly develop new insights and perspectives that inspire fresh topics and updated presentations. At the same time, the arrival of new members—each bringing their own specialist interests, backgrounds, and passions—adds further depth and diversity to the range of talks on offer. This dynamic exchange of expertise ensures that the Guild’s talks remain engaging, relevant, and responsive to audience interests, reflecting both the Guild’s commitment to lifelong learning and the strength of its collaborative community.