The Worcestershire Travel Guide outlines the main attractions, entertainment and places of interest for visitors and offers useful tourist information for travellers. The county is located centrally in the West Midlands in the heart of England, the county has historical attractions from its past and modern day ones to interest visitors. Perhaps the most famous stand out attraction is the magnificent cathedral thought to be one of the finest examples in the UK, the county also boasts one of premier safari parks in the UK.
Overview and Attractions
Historically famous for porcelain, carpets and Worcester sauce, there is much more to Worcestershire for visitors to discover. It is also home to Malvern and Clent Hills, the Vale of Evesham and the Severn Valley Railway among others. The county has a timeless sense to it and visitors exploring are greeted with some stunning views whilst strolling on the numerous riverside walks. Its central location means to the north is the West Midlands, to the east the delightful Cotswolds whilst to the south of the county is rich agricultural land of the Vale of Evesham which benefits from the fertile waters of the River Avon, has become an unparalleled area for growing fruit and vegetables.
The Wyre Forest is one of England's largest forests and has some awe inspiring scenery, the river Severn meandering through the Worcestershire countryside is a splendid sight for visitors. The county’s capital is Worcester, a city created by the Romans who wanted to benefit from the resources of the Severn which runs through the city.
Famed for its superb cathedral, it was built in the 7th century and rebuilt 400 years later, it contains the tombs of King John and Prince Arthur, elder brother of Henry VIII. Worcester was dependent on the manufacture of cloth for a long time and by the middle of the 17th century it had became one the largest towns in England. In 1751 the economy in the local vicinity was given a boost by the opening of a factory to make porcelain. The present day company Royal Worcester, is renowned for its offerings. There is a museum near the factory that boasts a large collection of porcelain.
Across Worcestershire visitors will find many picturesque villages and towns among then is the market town of Ledbury which has leaning half-timbered cottages and narrow alleyways. Over the centuries it has inspired a number of notable writers and artists including Wordsworth. The Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings is located on the outskirts of Bromsgrove. It has displays a number of properties that have had to be dismantled and reconstructed these include a windmill. There is also the largest collection of telephone kiosks in the country. Those wanting a view can go to one of the highest points in the county, Walton Hill in the Clent Hills. Views from the summit here mean you can see for over twenty miles all around.
Evesham town is located in Britain’s principal fruit growing region, the historic ancient market town stands on the banks of the River Avon. There is 16th century bell tower at over 100ft high and together with two churches and an almonry, are all that remain of one of the wealthiest monasteries in Britain. There are also the 12th century All Saint’s Church and the 16th century Church of St. Lawrence and the 12th century Abbot Reginald’s Gateway. The Vale of Evesham is referred to as the fruit basket of England in reference to its rich farmlands. Lower river Avon is a popular place to take a riverside walk with the riverside pubs and restaurants to try, it makes for a scenic relaxing stroll. There are also boat trips visitors can go on here.
The Malvern Hills are an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) and are well known for their spring water and helped to put Great Malvern on the map as a spa town. The Hills are a number of named peaks between Hertfordshire and Worcestershire, the environment here makes it a favourite among walkers. The Malverns consist of a set of picturesque towns and villages throughout the Malvern Hills. Great Malvern has an 11th century Priory Church whilst the Malvern Museum in the Priory Gatehouse gives an insight in to the town's history as a spa town.
Worcester Cathedral is full of history having been a place of prayer since 680AD. The present building was constructed in 1084, the picturesque Worcester Cathedral is host to a number of famous attractions including King John's Tomb, Prince Arthur's Chantry and the early 12th century Chapter House. Guided tours are available and the facilities on site include a library and cathedral shop to get those souvenirs from. There is a coffee shop and visitors can go to the tower too, weather permitting. This beautiful cathedral is a wonderful site that dominates the area and carries much history with it.
Broadway Village had been a favourite among visitors for a long time. Broadway Village attracts many visitors each year, an attractive village has a main street that features some lovely stone cottages that line the main street. Those wishing to avoid the crowds may wish to visit in the off peak season, where it can be an altogether more relaxing experience. The Broadway tower is in the extensive country park, it is claimed on a clear day you can see over 10 counties, the view is superb. There are some buildings of note in the village including Abbot's Grange, a 14th century manor, the original hall, study, and chapel can still be seen. The Lygon Arms was once the local manor house, and then became an inn. The Lygon has hosted some distinguished company in its time such as Oliver Cromwell and Charles I.
Croome Park is famous for being Capability Brown's first complete landscape, a project that helped make his reputation and helped to establish a new garden style that would become so widely adapted. There are many miles of walks through the lakeside gardens, parkland and shrubberies. The national trust is now helping to restore the park to its former glories. There are some elegant buildings in the park, these and other structures are mainly the work of James Wyatt and Robert Adam.
The Royal Worcester Porcelain Works have become closely associated with Worcestershire and have been manufacturing fine china since back in 1751, it is currently the oldest English porcelain company still in operation. The company was granted a royal warrant in 1789, and enjoys being the preferred china ware of Queen Elizabeth. Royal Worcester Porcelain boasts an international following and is highly prized by collectors. They are located on Severn Street, a site they have been at for over 160 years. There is a museum, the Museum of Worcester Porcelain, a factory shop, where you can pick up a few bargains, a theatre where visitors are shown the history of the pottery, and the Manufactory, where visitors are shown what like would have been like for potters many years ago. The tours of the faculties are popular among visitors.
Spetchley Park & Gardens are located close to the city of Worcester. Almost hidden away from the road, these gardens have been looked after with great care by generations of the Berkeley family. The features include a great collection of plants from all over the world. There are primroses and daffodils among many others. The gardens can be viewed at your own leisure, they are a great calming influence that represents somewhere to getaway from it all and relax in beautiful surroundings. Picnics and afternoon tea are also popular here with visitors.
Arts enthusiasts can go to the Evesham Arts Centre, which has a wide range of arts related shows on offer. These include films to rock and brass bands to ballet to plays and musicals. In addition there is also stand up comedy and poetry, there are a wide range of shows so whatever your preference chances are there is a show that it appeal to nearly all tastes. There is also a bar here to enjoy refreshments at, the Arts Centre is located a short distance from Evesham town centre.
Worcestershire has one of the most popular family attractions in the West Midland Safari & Leisure Park. It is located in rural Worcestershire, the Park covers an area of nearly 200 acres that incorporates a four mile self drive safari where you will see many interesting animals, including a pack of African Wild Hunting Dogs in their own reserve, a stunning display of very rare White Tigers, Giraffes, the Rhino family and a herd of elephants, among many others. With so many species to see you are sure to entertain the whole family for the day. Adventure seekers can go to the Leisure Area that contains a wide array of family fun rides, is sure to excite the whole family. There are places to have great picnics along with places to eat and souvenir shops. This attraction continues to prove a big hit with visitors.
Visitors in search of a traditional English pub can try the Anchor Inn, a village pub set in the picturesque surroundings of the countryside. The building dates back to the 17th Century and features original exposed beams and a large open fireplace. This helps to retain an authentic village pub atmosphere. There is also an A La Carte Restaurant and Lounge Bar providing the very best in traditional English food and includes fine wines and real ales. This friendly pub and restaurant provides a nice place to experience the authentic village pub and enjoy the friendly welcome of the locals.
The Old Rectifying House Restaurant and Music Bar is located on the north parade overlooking the river Severn in Worcester. The brasserie restaurant uses locally sourced and organic produce wherever possible. There is also a lounge bar upstairs that gives a wonderful view of the river Severn, you can enjoy the view whilst choosing from an extensive bar and wine menu that includes cocktails and continental beers. There is also garden and terrace where guests can enjoy the relaxed ambience whilst enjoying their meals and drinks.
Nightclub fans can try Tramps Nighclub located in the heart of Worcester city with 4 rooms that each has its own music and style. There are regular visits from DJs and celebrities, so you never know who you could bump in to here! There are plenty of cocktails on offer here for cocktail fans and the themed nights involve lots of fun and frolics with a wide range of music being played to suit most tastes. There is a garden where clubbers enjoy summer BBQs in a chilled out atmosphere.
Worcestershire offers a number of attractions for tourists, whilst it may be famed for its cathedral, Worcester sauce and porcelain, a closer look shows there is a lot more besides. The central location mean it is relatively easy for visitors from the north and south of the UK to get to, whilst international visitors have Birmingham Airport from which to approach the county. The rural landscape and lovely countryside makes for scenic touring of the county for visitors to enjoy.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.