Edvin Loach Old Church

Two churches stand side by side in this rural Herefordshire hamlet, one still serving the village, the other a haunting medieval ruin under English Heritage's care. The older structure dates from around 1200 and offers a proper glimpse into Norman church architecture, with its thick stone walls and distinctive rounded arches still largely intact despite centuries of weather.

What remains is atmospheric rather than grand - crumbling walls, empty window frames, and fragments of carved stonework scattered about the grassy interior. History enthusiasts will appreciate the surviving Norman details, particularly the south doorway with its weathered but visible carved decoration. The setting feels genuinely ancient, surrounded by countryside that's barely changed since medieval times.

Families staying at nearby parks like Brook House Woods or Wigley Orchard Caravan Park will find this makes a decent hour's exploration, though very young children might lose interest quickly. It's essentially an outdoor museum without interpretation boards, so bring your imagination. The adjacent working church often provides context if you're lucky enough to find it open.

Located just outside Bromyard, it combines well with exploring this market town or walking the surrounding Herefordshire hills. Free to visit and accessible year-round, though the site can get muddy after rain. Twenty minutes is enough unless you're particularly keen on ecclesiastical ruins.