Mothers’ Day, this Sunday 19 March, can be both a sensitive time for some and also an opportunity to celebrate your nearest and dearest and show them some love, whether it’s your mum, gran, aunt, sister or best friend. We all love a gorgeous bouquet or piece of jewellery (check out the Ross-on-Wye Independents’ Guide for inspiration) – but if you’re still struggling to think of alternative gift ideas, read our guide below for some of the best experiences in and around Ross.
Yat Pottery – if you fancy getting a little bit mucky and having some fun creating a special piece of pottery, head over to Yat Pottery in Symonds Yat where Adam will guide you through the techniques to help you throw your own unique piece of art. Experiences for two or four people are available from £45 per person. Gift vouchers are available – to book, contact adam@yatpottery.com or call 01989 566551.
Chris Lewis Jewellery Design – book a place at this unique workshop experience on Sunday 26 March in the heart of Ross-on-Wye where you can create your very own bespoke piece of jewellery. Starting at £60 for a pair of earrings, the prices include all tuition, tools and materials (no experience necessary). Gift vouchers available – for more details and to book, click here.
If you fancy doing something outdoors in the lovely spring fresh air, why not book a full or half day’s canoeing experience with Hereford Canoe Hire for Mother’s Day and take in the beautiful scenery of the River Wye? Gift vouchers are available and there are various routes to choose from starting at Lucksall, Hoarwithy or Hereford from just £30 per person. For further details and to book, click here.
YOFI Paddlesports is also offering outdoor activities on the River Wye at Symonds Yat. You can hire canoes or paddleboards by the hour or longer if you want more time to take in the full beauty of Symonds Yat from the river. Based at the ancient Ye Old Ferrie Inn, it’s the perfect base to relax before or after with a drink or bite to eat with mum. Contact instructors Robin or Leon to book or find out more by emailing them at hey@yofipaddlesports.com.
Caz Holbrook Photography – for an extra special gift, and one that will last a lifetime, how about treating your loved one to a family photo shoot or a fun portrait of yourself? Caz’s photography experiences are tailored to your exact requirements and she will bring out the best in even the shyest of subjects, including your furry friends! To find out more or to book your session, email Caz at info@cazholbrookphotography.co.uk or call her on 07986 322533 (gift vouchers also available).
Afternoon Tea is always a favourite pastime on Mothers’ Day, so why not celebrate in style and head down to the riverside where The Hope and Anchor is offering all mums a complimentary glass of Dadnor Herefordshire Sparkling Rosé in The Pavilion with their exquisite Afternoon Teas (Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th March from £15 per person) and also with the special Sunday Lunch Menu (19th March). Or for cocktail loving ladies, the team also runs a fun two hour Cocktail Masterclass costing £70 for two, including Prosecco and bar snacks. Call the team on 01989 477025 to book any of the above.
A couple of miles outside of Ross, the beautiful and historic manor house, Glewstone Court Country House, offers a special Afternoon Tea for £12 per person in their 2 AA rosette awarded Cedar Tree restaurant. If the weather warms up, you can sit outside and enjoy the stunning views over the gardens and orchards from the pretty courtyard. There is currently availability on Saturday 18th March from 2pm to 4pm and you can upgrade to a Prosecco or Champagne afternoon tea for an additional charge (booking 24 hours in advance essential). To book telephone 01989 770367 or email enquiries@glewstonecourt.com.
Continuing on the cake theme – if your baking skills are not quite up to Mary Berry’s standard and you’d prefer someone else to do all the legwork whilst still enjoying afternoon tea in the comfort of your home, pop into Woods of Whitchurch this weekend. They’ve created a lovely takeaway menu costing £18 per person which includes a selection of sandwiches and savoury treats, homemade cakes, desserts and scones with jam and clotted cream plus a glass of prosecco or sparkling elderflower. Call 1600 891021 for details or email wow@woodsofwhitchurch.com.
Or how about combining afternoon tea with a viewing of The Greatest Showman at the flicks? The Gateway is holding a special Mothers’ Day Screening of this wonderful original musical inspired by the life of P.T. Barnum, starring Hugh Jackman, on Sunday 19th March at 1pm followed by Afternoon Tea at 3pm. Tickets cost £17 for adults and £10 for children under 10 yrs and there is also a fully licensed bar for the non-designated drivers if you want to treat her to a glass of fizz.
Finally – spoiler alert – if you’d like to treat your loved one to a morning or afternoon of pure relaxation, Wye Valley Massage Therapies is offering Mothers’ Day gift vouchers which you can use to buy a specific treatment or you can customise more than one treatment to create an experience of your choice (all also include a self-heating eye mask by Sensory Retreats for the ultimate indulgence). Gift vouchers are available in digital or print format – book online or contact Sarah by email or phone 07584 879680.
Cover image courtesy of Julicious Bakes, one of Ross-on-Wye Markets’ newest traders.