Walking in Worcestershire

Worcestershire is a county of gentle rolling countryside, winding rivers and distinctive hill ranges that rise above fertile lowlands. Bordered in part by the Malvern Hills, the Clent Hills, the Lickey Hills and the Cotswolds, and threaded by the Rivers Severn and Avon as well as historic canals, it offers some of England’s most rewarding easy-going walking. From orchard country and hop fields to cathedral cities and quiet market towns, Worcestershire blends natural beauty with layers of history.

Walking in Worcestershire brings together 31 carefully chosen routes that explore the very best of the county. The guide includes 28 day walks from 4 to 17 miles, suitable for a wide range of abilities, plus three multi-day long-distance trails for those seeking a greater challenge. Walkers can follow stretches of the Worcestershire Way, explore sections of the North Worcestershire Path and Wychavon Way, or enjoy scenic towpaths along the Birmingham Canal. With bases such as Malvern, Upton, Worcester, Bewdley, Pershore and Evesham, Walking in Worcestershire makes it easy to plan rewarding outings with excellent accommodation and transport links close at hand.

Designed for all seasons, Walking in Worcestershire showcases landscapes that change beautifully throughout the year. Spring orchards burst into blossom and woodlands are carpeted with bluebells; summer meadows hum with wildlife; autumn paints the hills in copper and gold; and winter offers crisp, clear views from the Malverns and firm footing along canal towpaths when lower fields may be muddy. Alongside natural beauty, the routes in Walking in Worcestershire pass through historic towns such as Worcester and Evesham, notable for battles that shaped the nation, and visit abbeys, priories and churches that reflect the county’s rich heritage.

Most of the 28 day walks in Walking in Worcestershire are circular, making them straightforward to organise, while several linear options are included with convenient transport links. The three longer routes range from 49 to 60 miles and can be completed in up to four days each. These include:

• A four-day canal journey from Worcester to central Birmingham, with suggested overnight stops in Droitwich, Bromsgrove and Alvechurch
• The two-day North Worcestershire Path from Major’s Green to Bewdley
• The two-day Worcestershire Way from Bewdley to Great Malvern

Each stage of these longer walks in Walking in Worcestershire can also...read more...