The neighbourhood
The pretty town of Bewdley is about 20 minutes away and is lovely for a leisurely walk alongside the River Severn, perusing the shops and waterside dining. Meanwhile, five miles away from the cottage is the market town of Droitwich Spa where highlights include the Salt Museum and Droitwich Spa Lido for open-air, saltwater swimming on a sunny summer’s day.
For some city life, historic Worcester is 15 miles away where plenty of attractions include the cathedral, the racecourse and The Commandery which was the Royalist’s headquarters during the English Civil War.
History-lovers will also like to explore Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, as well as a host of the National Trust’s stately homes including Croome Court and Hanbury Hall.
For all-round family fun start with Churchfields Farm where you can sample homemade ice-cream. Family-friendly day trips include West Midland Safari Park, the famous Severn Valley Railway, Little Owl Farm, Warwick Castle and Cadbury World.
If you’re after a real adventure head to the Wyre Forest where you can feel the adrenaline rush of zipping along the high wires of Go Ape, or visit Upton Warren for water sports on the lake. With two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Malvern Hills and the C
otswolds, within easy reach too, there are plenty more opportunities for outdoor pursuits and long hikes through picturesque, unspoilt countryside.
Getting around
A car is advised for a stay at Swallow’s Nest which is located a short drive from junctions 4 and 5 of the M5 and around a 25-minute drive from the centre of Birmingham. The rural location is not served by a bus route, however there are train stations at Bromsgrove and Droitwich, both of which are about 10 minutes’ drive away, and taxis can be pre-booked to take you between there and the cottage. For serious cyclists, there is access onto the cycling route that runs through Worcestershire.