The best way to explore Bromyard is to see it through the eyes of people that live, breathe and work in Bromyard. Lucy Grafham, a local artist talks all about her experience with moving to Bromyard, what keeps her here and her top recommendations for visiting the town.
Please introduce yourself in a few words
Hi, I’m Lucy: graphic designer, mother of two, cat keeper and a plant-loving veggie.
What brought you to Bromyard?
Bromyard was a place where we could afford to get on the property ladder. Before moving here, I hadn’t been to the town and knew nothing about it.
Our neighbours were warm-hearted, lovely people who couldn’t do enough to help us settle in. I’m forever grateful for their ongoing thoughtfulness.
Since moving here in 2007, I’ve had three children, got a divorce and moved house. Tragically, my second child had complications and died during our stay in the hospital three and a half weeks after birth. Bromyard has been a massive tool in my healing process. The people and the setting are familiar and comforting.
What keeps me in Bromyard? My children, our friends, the weather, the stunning countryside, the pace of life, the kindness of strangers, the amenities, the vibe and the people keep me here.
How are you active in the community?
My role in the community
varies. I help out where I can when I can. Historically I’ve cleaned graffiti,
picked litter in the park, helped with Make Bromyard and Beaver Scouts,
assisted with school events, and done free and discounted graphic design work
for local charities.
What is your favourite thing to do in Bromyard?
My favourite thing to do in Bromyard is to be here. From arriving through the beautiful landscape to wandering through town to sitting in the garden: the vibe here is relaxed and welcoming. The butterflies and bees go about their day, the plant life thrives, and people say hello. What’s not to like?
A friend is visiting Bromyard for the first time, how would you recommend they spend their day?
I’d recommend they start their day at Kempson Player park to watch the sunrise behind the Malvern hills. From there, walking along the Herefordshire Way toward Avenbury, to watch the wildlife and world wake up. Looping back past the deserted 12th Century Church ruin and its wonky headstones, passing hop vines and orchards.
For brunch: Emma’s cafe for a simple filling English breakfast- veggie or meat if they prefer. I’d recommend they pass the Weeping Angels and go through the Tardis for a wander around the labyrinth of Tudor cellars at the Doctor Who Museum. I’d tell them to browse some of our independent shops and catch the Market if they’re there on the first Sunday of the Month.
I wouldn’t want them to miss Legge’s farm shop, an excellent stop-off for treats, takeaways and a picnic. Enjoy the view from the Bromyard Downs whilst eating their picinic. They could take in any of the woodlands there, but I’d recommend Warren Wood; the dappled light, rope swing and World War II bunkers there are worth a look. Finally, I’d recommend that they grab a pint of local beer or cider in one of our glorious pubs.
What’s a little known fact about Bromyard that everyone should know?
Firs Lane used to be the main route through Bromyard and is now a confusing road for every delivery driver!
What makes Bromyard Bromyard?
Participation; getting involved in activities, conversation and nature.
What’s your favourite Bromyard-related memory?
My favourite Bromyard memory is when Bromyard got snowed in. The amount of snow was phenomenal. The schools closed. No one could get in or out of Bromyard. People were volunteering, helping and rescuing others. Kids and adults played out, and the usual traffic and work stopped. Our friends trudged through the snow from the Downs into town to meet us, and our families had a snowball fight next to the town hall.
What role has Bromyard played in making the person you are today?
I’ve grown a much greater appreciation for the simple things- the grass, the bees, the soil, the sunshine and the kindness of strangers.
What’s your favourite place in the world you’ve visited?
Barcelona. It’s different every time I go. It’s a down-to-earth cultural mash: The city, beach, architecture, shops, art, performance, and wonky streets that lead you to new places and more. There is so much to see and do.
Tell us something about yourself that not many people know?
I’ve been doing Yoga for a while now and can confidently do a headstand and “crow pose”. In “crow pose”, hands are on the floor, shins rest on your upper arms, and your feet lift up. I found Yoga after regularly googling fixes for chronic pain in the early hours.
