Pershore – One of Britain’s ‘Gem Towns’

Heritage Sites 

Pershore Abbey

For more than a thousand years, this historic place of worship has stood proudly above the centre of the town. It had survived three fires, two ferocious storms and an earthquake, not to mention the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII when much of the Abbey was demolished, and it became the parish church that it is today. It was restored in the 1860s by the famous architect George Gilbert Scott, who created the famous lantern tower with its amazing cathedral-like interior space. Today, the Abbey is a beautiful mix of Victorian, Norman, Gothic and early English architecture and remains a key part of Pershore’s character and charm. There’s much to marvel at, so it’s worth a trip to the jewel in Pershore’s crown.

The Almonry 

If you visit the Abbey, make sure you view The Almonry, too. It’s just a short walk from the Abbey and is on the site of the original Almonry. This is where monks gave charity to those in need. The quaint half-timbered building was converted into charitable housing for the poor when the Abbey was dissolved and later became a single dwelling. It was fully restored in the 1970s and is now a listed private house that provides a delightful link to Pershore’s history as you pass.

Pershore Bridge 

The River Avon is a focal point of Worcestershire, and Pershore is home to one of the finest bridges on that famous river. It’s a wonderfully quirky structure, with each of its five arches being a different size and shape and having been finished with differing levels of detail and ornament. It was originally built by monks from the Abbey in the 15th century. Roundheads and Cavaliers clashed here during the English Civil War, after which the bridge was partially rebuilt, explaining its inconsistent shape now. Today, it is a calm, tranquil spot popular with anglers.

Countryside Walks 

Tiddesley Wood 

Worcestershire Wildlife Trust maintains all 185 acres of this ancient woodland. Tiddesley Wood dates back to the last Ice Age, which ended some 11,500 years ago. In spring, the wood supports a carpet of wildflowers, such as bluebells, violets, and cowslip, which, in turn, attracts butterflies and insects and the birds that feed on them. You should look out for rarer plants like herb-paris, butterfly orchids, and dog’s mercury in the darker parts of the wood.

In summer and autumn, the oak, ash, lime, hazel, and wild service trees provide a beautiful shady spot for a stroll while spotting butterflies, hoverflies, and bees. Tiddelsley Wood was the original home of the ‘egg plum’ fruit that made Pershore famous, and a small orchard is maintained near the entrance. Wild plum, pear and crab apple trees may be found growing in the depths of the wood.

There is also free parking, so you and your family can enjoy a day out without having to spend a penny, especially if you pack a picnic.

Pershore Horticultural College 

For a slow afternoon activity, visit the Pershore Horticultural College. It sits amongst 60 hectares, and whilst it’s a place of study, the gardens are open to the public. There is an arboretum and ornamental garden area that you are permitted to take a stroll around. There is also a garden centre and a plant nursery, although the latter is only open to the public on set days of the year.

Bredon Hill

Staying at our Bredon View Holiday Estate, you’ll already be treated to striking views of this famous hill, reaching nearly 1000 feet high. If you want to walk up and around it, the complete route will take you about three hours. Despite the climb, the way is easy-going so is suitable for most people.

From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Vale of Evesham and the Avon Valley, out to the Malvern Hills to the west and the Cotswolds to the east. On a clear day, it is said you can see at least eight counties – some claim you can see as many as 14, so be sure to bring your binoculars! It’s a view that has inspired poets, composers, and writers by the dozen over the years, and you’re sure to find it just as breathtaking. Atop the hill are ancient standing stones, the remains of an Iron Age hill fort, a medieval castle, and an 18th-century folly tower.

Malvern Hills

If the sight of the Malvern Hills from the top of Bredon has intrigued you, you won’t be disappointed as there many miles of footpaths and bridleways that will let you explore this beautiful area. If you want a workout that will really earn you that evening’s dinner, a 10-mile route will take you up and down the crest of the hill range, with fantastic views on each side, and to the summit of the Worcestershire Beacon – the county’s highest point at just under 1400ft above sea level. For those looking for something gentler, there are dozens of shorter circular routes that take in some of the Malverns’ most beautiful villages and scenery.

Confetti Fields

If you visit in late June and early July you must make time for a visit to the Confetti Fields in the village of Wick, just a short distance from Pershore. At the historic Wick Manor, many different types of flowers are grown for turning into confetti and for around a week in early summer the fields are open to the public as the flowers are in bloom. It’s a striking and beautiful site with acres of flowers of different colours – perfect for a walk amid nature and a quick photo to secure the memory forever.

Food and Drink

Pershore Plum Festival 

Worcestershire is famous for its fruit harvests, and Pershore became well-known for its plums, with plum orchards being recorded in the area from medieval times. Pershore holds the Plum Festival each August bank holiday Monday to mark this long heritage. There are various festivities, including a Plum Procession, throughout the town. There is a farmer’s market (usually held on Broad Street), a funfair, live music, boat trips and various plum-themed entertainments. Wearing purple clothing is strongly encouraged! If you’re not visiting while the Pershore Plum Festival is taking place, you can still be sure of finding plums and other fruits for sale, as well as jams, pies, ciders and more.

Shopping

Indoor Market 

With so much local produce in the way of fruit and vegetables, you’re spoilt for choice at the indoor market. Local stallholders sell a range of items, including food and drink, as well as handbags and clothes.

High Street 

Take a stroll down Pershore’s High Street and absorb the well-preserved Georgian architecture. There are countless independent retailers, allowing you to find a hidden gem that will forever remind you of your holiday to the beautiful town of Pershore. And there are plenty of charming cafes for a refreshing drink as you go.

Book a Pershore Holiday Today 

With everything we’ve laid out above, we’re sure you’ll have found something to tempt you to visit Pershore and its fantastic surroundings. There really is something for everyone. And you can add more to that with the relaxing, luxurious homes from home and wonderful onsite facilities we have at Bredon View Holiday Estate. Contact us now to discuss booking your holiday at Bredon View.