The Coningsby Hospital Museum

05/11/2025

We will remember them.

03/11/2025

One of those who would have originally been buried in the Blackfriars. While our Museum is now closed until Easter /April the Blackfriars remains open every day for a beautiful place to enjoy some fresh air .

21/09/2025

**MONASTERY MYSTERIES**

In the centre of City is a hidden historical gem located within the Blackfriars Rose Gardens. It's none other than a beautiful Preaching Cross. This one dates back to the 14th century and was restored in the 19th century. It was associated with the Blackfriars Monastery in the city. The Blackfriars were also known as the Friars Preachers and regularly gave sermons to the local people from their preaching crosses. These are now extremely rare and this is actually the only remaining example of a friar's preaching cross in England. How amazing is that?
www.eatsleepliveherefordshire.co.uk/hereford
Photo: Becky Millman

12/09/2025

The gardens for the Blackfriars do always look beautiful nowadays really shows how much love and care volunteers and residents put into it!
Reminder The Museum will close after October until Easter /April time but the gardens will still be open during daylight hours.

30/08/2025

We are still open as normal today despite the road closures on Widemarsh Street. We look forward to seeing you 😁

20/08/2025

**HEREFORD'S HIDDEN GEMS**

Tucked away in the heart of Hereford City are some of the most wonderful buildings, steeped in history and stories from centuries ago. St John Medieval Museum and Coningsby Hospital is adjacent to the Blackfriars Rose Garden and the ruins of the Dominican Monastery.

In 1614 Thomas Coningsby converted what had originally been the conventual buildings of the Blackfriars Monastery and the preceptory of the Knights of St John of Jerusalem to a hospital for old soldiers and serving men. Interestingly it is said that Coningsby Red Coat Hospital was probably the model for the Chelsea Hospital in London.

It is incredible that the 13th century chapel is still used today by the Order of St John, and the Museum, which explains the links between the Crusades, the Knights Templar and The Hospitaller Knights.

If you love history as much as we do then we recommend a visit, look out for the stone Preaching Cross, it's one of the last surviving examples. Friars Preachers regularly gave sermons to the local people from their preaching crosses. What a sight that must have been!

Photo: Becky Millman

15/08/2025

12/08/2025

🇬🇧 VJ Day Commemoration – Friday 15th August 🇬🇧

🕙 Schedule of Events:

10:50 – Procession to the War Memorial steps of the Hereford Town Hall

11:00 – One-minute silence, followed by a short commemorative service

Wreaths will be laid by the Mayor, invited guests, and members of the public

11:20 – Procession into St Peter’s Church for a short service of remembrance

12:00 – National two-minute silence observed, followed by the bugler and a lament from our Civic Piper

08/08/2025

So glad to see we are mentioned!

From secret gardens and historic landmarks to quirky museums and scenic spots, there’s something special around every corner.

26/07/2025

Coming to Hereford for the Three Choirs? Then come along and see our beautiful little museum full of history and wonder, just a little bit past the Old Market Shopping Centre.
Three Choirs Festival