Coast’s Choice: Worcestershire
This week’s Coast’s Choice is focussing on places to visit in Worcestershire – a county steeped in history with interesting landscapes and a thriving local food and drink culture. Here are our team’s favourite places to visit:
The Commandery
This Grade I listed building might have been constructed in the 12th century, but its architecture has been influenced by a variety of different eras from the medieval to Victorian periods.
A tour of the building will bring to life its glorious history and the people that have inhabited it over the past 800 years. Visitors can explore six periods of its existence and find out stories of romance, society, war and power.
The Commandery is open Monday-Saturday between 10.00am and 5.00pm and from 1.30-5.00pm on Sunday. Admission is free. Click here to find out more.
Nearest caravan site: 1.6 miles
Hanbury Hall & Gardens
Worcester MP Thomas Vernon constructed Hanbury Hall in 1701, and the William and Mary-style property boasts some of the most interesting architecture and formal gardens within the county.
Among the highlights of the house itself are a gothic corridor, staircase lined with original paintings by Sir James Thornhill and the striking formal dining room. Visitors are invited to listen to records on the gramophone in the 1920s sitting room or play a tune on the main hall’s harpsichord.
The 20 acre grounds recreate Hanbury Hall’s heyday, as the intricate 18th century inspired gardens include a fruit garden, bowling green, orangery and grove.
Hanbury Hall & Gardens are open every day except Thursday and are free to enter for National Trust members. Non-member tickets cost £8.50 for adults and £4.50 for children. Further details are available via the official website.
Nearest caravan site: 6.5 miles
Malvern Hills
For breathtaking natural beauty, look no further than Malvern Hills. Its eight mile ridge has been likened to a miniature mountain range and contains some of the country’s oldest rocks. Thousands of ramblers flock to the area each year, both to explore the 3000 acres of slopes or traverse their way up to the highest peak, Worcestershire Beacon. Click here to look at a selection of walking routes in the area. Many outdoor activities are also on offer including hang gliding, horse riding, mountain biking, fishing and bird watching.
Camping is not permitted on Malvern Hills, however Kings Green caravan park and Blackmore Park campsite are located close by.
Top Barn Farm
Top Barn Farm is a fantastic place for a day out if you have a young family. There are lots of barnyard animals – and more exotic creatures such as alpacas – and visitors are encouraged to pet the bunnies, take part in feeding sessions and help collect hens’ eggs.
A tractor trailer will form your transport around the farm, while afterwards you can admire the home-grown produce in the farm shop or pick your own strawberries during the summer months.
The farm is just the start, however: Top Barn has a huge range of activities suitable for all ages, from trips along the river to archery, windsurfing, orienteering and mountain biking.
There is a caravan site at the venue that includes toilet/showering facilities, 6amp electric hook ups, coffee shop, shop and butchery and a marquee for hire during the summer. Click here for contact details if you wish to make a booking.
Worcester Cathedral
No visit to Worcestershire is complete with out visiting the county town’s ornate cathedral. Built in 1084 and dedicated to Christ and the blessed Virgin Mary, it contains the royal tombs of King John and Prince Arthur.
Visitors can wander round the cathedral’s medieval cloisters, ancient crypt and 12th century chapter house, in addition to admiring its vast Victorian stained glass windows. During the summer, the cathedral tower is open for those who want to enjoy views over the city.
Entry to Worcester Cathedral is free of charge. Visit the website for further information.
Nearest caravan site: 1.7 miles
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