The pretty market town of Ledbury is one of the safest places to live in Herefordshire.

Ledbury was identified as the safest area in the county, according to the CrimeRate website.

Lying west of the Malvern Hills, the town dates back to around 69AD, taking its name from the River Leadon and the Old English word for a fortified site, “burg”.

Visit Herefordshire says Ledbury’s streets are lined with “brilliant” independent shops as well as plenty of restaurants and cafes.

High Street highlights include Tinsmiths for homeware, ceramics and prints; Hus & Hem for Nordic “delights” and Blandfords, which is recommended for its gift ideas.

No 12 High Street offers “heavenly” meriono knitwear while Ceci Paolo offers upmarket brands. Renaissance caters well to men while for jewellery try Juice Collection, J.B. Gaynan’s, Tusk Collection and Past&Present.

Orchards surround the town and these are celebrated by Big Apple festivals. Orchard walks, tours and tastings are available year-round at Westons Cider and Gregg’s Pit.

History buffs might want to visit nearby Eastnor Castle, 17th century corn warehouse Market House and 1 Church Street, which features Tudor wall paintings not re-discovered until 1989.

Foodies can choose from The Seven Stars inn, Market House Cafe & Gin Bar, The Feathers Hotel’s restaurant, Olive Tree and Verzon House Restaurant, to name a few.

The Feathers is a traditional coaching inn which has stood proudly on Ledbury High Street for more than 400 years.

Dogs and children are welcome at the hotel, which has limited, free parking, but is located near other public car parks.

The Seven Stars gastropub offers guest accommodation while golf fans might want to consider staying at Alexander Park Resort, which boasts an 18-hole course, a floodlit driving range and fitness centre.

National Express coaches run nationwide services, including routes from London Victoria and Birmingham to Hereford, Ledbury and Ross-on-Wye. The nearest major airports are Birmingham, Cardiff and Bristol.

Direct trains run to Hereford, Ledbury & Colwall daily from Birmingham New Street Station with a 90 minute journey time. Services from London Paddington to Hereford also stop at Colwall and Ledbury.