Defined by quintessential country romance, the county of Worcestershire is full of timeless charm. A heavenly destination for year-round retreats, it beckons to all those seeking escapism in darling settings. Uncover the region’s untold allure with moments immersed in its most mesmerising landscapes and gems, from stately manors ensconced in greenery to breathtaking hills crested with Iron Age forts.
Pursue daydream adventures with our curated guide to some of the best places to visit in Worcestershire…
Hanbury Hall
The Grade I listed Hanbury Hall is home to a magnificent country house and garden in the heart of rural Worcestershire. Dating back to the early 1700s, this regal idyll was built by lawyer, Thomas Vernon, and was designed to host resplendent summer parties. Today, the manor is looked after by the National Trust and sets the stage with formal gardens recreated in the original vision of Landscape Architect and Royal Gardener, Geoge London. Walk in the footsteps of 18th-century aristocrats and glimpse into the life of Georgian high society with a visit to the house, its gardens, orangery, orchards and walled garden. To refuel, you can also find The Courtyard Kitchen and The Stables Café onsite for a range of delicious refreshments and repasts.
Malvern Hills
The Malvern Hills stretch between the counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire and beckon with a wealth of walks for wanderlust pursuits. Whether you are seeking short strolls through verdant commons or undulating walks over sun-kissed summits, this stunning realm has something for everyone. Uncover the majesty of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and follow one of the trails weaving through the landscape. As well as the area’s rich wildlife and fascinating geology, the Malvern Hills are also home to significant cultural sites, such as the iconic hillforts, Midsummer Hill and British Camp, two complex Iron Age hillforts dating back to 500BC. British Camp can be enjoyed as part of an especially breathtaking 3.5-mile circular route to Swinyard Hill.
Witley Court Gardens
Embrace the nostalgic charm of Witley Court Gardens. First constructed in the 1600s, this grand manor was developed over the following four centuries to become one of the great country houses of England. Encompassed by sweeping landscaped parkland, Witley’s mansion was famed for its opulent and lavish parties and attracted Royal visitors over the years, including King Edward VII. Sadly, in September 1937, a fierce fire swept through the building, destroying huge swathes of its central block and eastern wing, transforming the manor into the romantic ruin you see today. Walk up the restored driveway of the estate and see the remains of Witley’s striking Italianate architecture, as well as its manicured grounds and wilderness areas.
Broadway Tower
One of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds, Broadway is one of the best places to visit in Worcestershire for seekers of storybook moments. Making the village all the more enchanting is the nearby Broadway Tower, a fairytale folly residing at the top of the Cotswolds escarpment. Enjoy one of the most scenic walks in the Cotswolds to reach the top of Middle Hill and Broadway Tower. Upon arriving at the summit, you can climb the stairs of the tower on select days to find an alfresco viewing platform, where views across 16 counties unravel across the horizon. Pack a delicious picnic to savour at the foot of the tower on balmy afternoons and admire the sweeping panoramas as a soul-stirring backdrop.
Worcester Cathedral
Painting the skyline over the glistening River Severn, Worcester Cathedral makes for a captivating sight. Originally founded in 680AD, the cathedral was home to a community of Benedictine monks and was one of the most important places of worship in the country. Reconstructed in stages between the 11th and 16th centuries, it weaves together various styles of Norman and Gothic architecture and is renowned for a number of famous features, such as a Norman crypt and chapter house. It also contains the resting place of King John, the King of England from 1199 to 1216 and brother of Richard the Lion Heart. Take part in guided tours and climb the tower for an unforgettable twist to your visit.
Avoncroft Museum
Embark on a spellbinding journey through time at Avoncroft Museum. One of the most bewitching places to visit in Worcestershire, this open-air museum extends across 19 acres of rural realms with a patchwork of wildflower meadows, historic gardens and fruit orchards. Peppered across the site are more than 30 buildings and structures spanning 700 years of local culture and architectural history. Explore the museum at your leisure, weaving between walls and the passages of bygone eras and learn about the area’s heritage. With each building a unique thumbprint of time, it’s hard not to let the mind be captured by stories of old and the lives intertwined with each structure during thought-provoking discovery at Avoncroft.
The Tudor House
Worcestershire is adored for its history and many of its beautiful buildings date back centuries. One such abode is The Tudor House, residing in the heart of the county’s cathedral city of Worcester. Easily recognised with its winsomely sloping roof, dark lead windows, and decorative timbering, this 16th-century house is beloved for its characterful features and handsome façade. Wander along Worcester’s oldest street to find The Tudor House and step inside to explore its museum, open on select days throughout the week. Peruse the interesting curios and displays inside the museum to unwrap an array of tales, before heading back outside and meandering along the city’s cobbled streets to a favourite café or bistro.
Arley Arboretum & Gardens
For the seekers of adumbral strolls, Arley Arboretum is a dream destination. Residing on the banks of the River Severn close to the picturesque market town of Bewdley, this historic estate encompasses one of the oldest arboretums in Britain and is sown with more than 300 species of trees. Tread footsteps along flowing pathways through native and exotic plants, shrubs, and trees and bask in serene moments in the restored Italian gardens. A particular highlight, a walk along Arley’s laburnum arch is a must. Flowering in May and June each year, this magical archway runs for 65 meters and is the longest of its kind in Britain. Follow its sun-dappled corridor to arrive at the other side and take in the glorious views of the Severn Valley.
Harvington Hall
Harvington Hall in Chaddesley Corbett is a picture of untouched splendour. A moated Medieval manor house with roots dating back to the 13th century, the hall has a deep and compelling history that spans hundreds of years. Among its many chapters, Harvington Hall is perhaps most renowned for its protection of priests during the persecution of Catholics by Queen Elizabeth I. In fact, the hall features around seven priest hides (that have been found) – the most numerous of any house in England. These were believed to have been designed by Jesuit builder, Nicholas Owen. Take a guided tour of Harvington’s rooms and learn about its many secrets and tales, and admire the collection of rare Elizabethan paintings.
Clent Hills
For those pursuing outdoor adventures, the miles of footpaths and bridleways of the Clent Hills promise unmissable moments in nature. Reaching across 440 acres, the area is adorned in woodland, heath, and grassy hills that rise hundreds of meters above the surrounding landscapes. Don the cosiest walking attire and hike to the top of the 316-meter Walton Hill to discover the highest point in the hills. On clear days, panoramic vistas overlook the rural surrounds as far as the Cotswolds, Shropshire Hills and even Wales. As you explore the Clent Hills, look out for highlights such as the stately Hagley Hall and its 18th-century follies, and the Four Stones on Adam’s Hill.
Greyfriars House and Garden
Unveil the ages and uncover the chronicles of Greyfriars House and Garden in Worcester’s city centre. Created by a wealthy merchant in the late 1400s, this Medieval marvel has survived hundreds of years of life, intermingling trade, politics, and domesticity. Altered and extended over its existence, Greyfriars retains its beautiful Tudor façade and exudes timeless charm. Visit the house and its secret gardens during city escapades and step into an otherworldly realm where the past and present seamlessly combine. On sunny days, you can take a seat in the Italianate walled garden outside and relish flavourful fare from the onsite Old Oak Café.
Wyre Forest
Wyre Forest is the biggest woodland National Nature Reserve in England and one of the most enthralling places to visit in Worcestershire. Flee reality through its sylvan swathes and enjoy a range of things to do, from leisurely walks along woodland trails and cycle journeys beneath emerald canopies to Go Ape Tree Top Adventures. Especially beguiling, a 2-mile walk leads wayfarers through the woodland to the ‘Valley of Giants’, where the reserve’s impressive Douglas Firs tower above the pine-needle-coated floor. To satiate your appetite after hours in the fresh air, visit the Wyre Forest Café to select something delicious, from seasonal lunches and homemade bakes to warming, barista-crafted beverages.
Feeling inspired for a wanderlust sojourn? Uncover our collection of luxury cottages in Worcestershire.
