Sandwiched between the Cotswolds and the Malverns, Worcestershire has lots to offer for travellers hoping to experience a traditional English countryside cottage getaway.
However, when you’re not nestled by the log fire, enjoying the views from your lodge, or taking a dip in the hot tub – what else does this peaceful, rural area have to offer? We round up our top 10 things to do in Worcestershire…
It would be remiss to begin any to-do list without mentioning Worcester’s most famous landmark, its cathedral. Overlooking the River Severn, the Anglican structure has roots dating back to 1084 and has been a place of worship for 14 centuries. This makes it a must-see for those that love history or architecture.
Socially-distanced, guided tours are available on different themes, including everything from Tudors and Stuarts, to World War I. These will give you the chance to take in Victorian stained glass windows, a tomb, medieval cloisters, a garden, stonemasons yard, and much more. If you like heights, you could even climb the tower too.
Known as the north’s gateway to the Cotswolds, Worcestershire’s portion of the famous scenic landscape begins in Broadway.
Use this as your entryway to exploring the rolling green hills and charming villages that the Cotswolds are famous for. The village of Broadway supplies a quintessential Cotswolds experience, thanks to its honey-bricked buildings, charming village green and selection of independent shops and tea rooms.
Lavender fields, a soap-making school, a heritage railway, distillery and museums are all part of the package, while the Broadway Tower and its park have plenty of interesting activities, too.
The Malvern Hills are a worthy rival to the Cotswolds – but they need not compete. Much more rugged, the hills border both Worcestershire and Herefordshire and make a great destination for outdoor adventure.
With over 3,000 acres of space and 15km of rocks, the hills are perfect for wildlife spotting, long walks, hikes, and even hand-gliding. There are also a number of springs and fountains to visit and cycling can be enjoyed on the bridleways, too.
For more walking and fresh air, you can also spend some time viewing the fascinating ruins of an Italianate mansion.
Witley Court and Gardens – constructed in the 17th century – is now owned by English Heritage and can offer a day of wandering around woodland, taking in the grand architecture, exploring the preserved church, and sampling wines, chutneys and jams in the on-site shop. There’s even a play area for the little ones.
For those that love a tipple or two, heading out to the Astley Vineyard is a great choice.
As well as drinking in the lovely landscape and the vineyard itself, a tour here will provide you with a welcome drink, a historical talk, a walk along the wooded valley, an introduction to the different grapes and winemaking, a guided tasting, and a refreshing glass of wine while gazing out across the Severn Valley. What more could you ask for?
Hop on a steam train at the Severn Valley Railway and enjoy all that a heritage rail ride has to offer. The 16-mile line follows the River Severn for much of its route, providing memorable scenery.
There are a range of vintage locomotives to try out through hop-on-hop-off and a number of pubs to stop off at for refreshments along the way. There are also special events, including a gin tasting train, ghost trains and Christmas and carol-singing trains. Take your pick…
If historic homes are a must for you on any trip, Spetchley Park Gardens will delight with 4,500 acres of gardens and parkland.
The impressive country mansion, built from Bath stone, is Grade II listed. In addition to the fantastic architecture and the splendour of the setting, there’s a wonderful opportunity to spot flowers and fauna, enjoy the varied arts and sculpture events hosted, and even purchase a picnic filled with local produce from the Granary Coffee Shop.
For the musicians in your life, don’t miss out on taking a trip to The Firs, which is famously the birthplace of English composer Sir Edward Elgar.
Now a museum dedicated to the classical composer, and under National Trust stewardship, the attraction provides the chance to see the cottage in which he was born, find out more about the Elgar family, sit in the picturesque garden, walk the woodland area, and visit indoor exhibitions.
Another opportunity to stretch your legs and let those with four paws make the most of the space.
Worcester Woods County Park encompasses two nature reserves, a large open field space, a number of walking trails through woodland and meadows, and an adventure play area. Stop at the Orchard Cafe to try tasty local produce or relax in the picnic area, too.
The River Severn is the star of the Worcestershire area, so it’s no surprise that there’s plenty to do away from dry land, as well.
For the most relaxing experience on the water, take one of the Severn Leisure Cruses in Tewkesbury. These 45-minute boat rides are free and will ferry you along the riverside and to Twyning via Croft Farm.
Those seeking a faster pace can instead can hire a canoe or a row boat and take to the waterways themselves, just above Stourport. Or, alternatively, make a night of it with one of the River King evening cruises on the boat that has a bar.
If you have any questions about any of our cottages or if you’d like some help with your booking, you are very welcome to get in touch with us.
We are always happy to help and go out of our way to tailor your perfect UK holiday.
