Welcome to Evesham, a charming market town in Worcestershire, England, nestled on the northern edge of the Cotswolds. With a rich history dating back to the days of Evesham Abbey, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this picturesque town. From historic landmarks to scenic river views, Evesham has something for everyone. Join me as we delve into the top 15 best things to do in Evesham and uncover the hidden gems of this beautiful town.
Discover Evesham’s Rich History
Evesham is a town steeped in history, with remnants of its past scattered throughout the town. Here are some must-visit historical sites in Evesham:
Almonry Museum: Step back in time at the Almonry Museum, housed in the 14th-century almonry of Evesham Abbey. Explore 12 rooms filled with artifacts from the Battle of Evesham and learn about local history through interactive displays.
Evesham Abbey Tower: Marvel at the imposing Evesham Abbey Tower, a remnant of the Benedictine abbey that once stood in the town. Climb the tower for panoramic views of Evesham and the surrounding countryside.
St Lawrence’s Church: Visit the historic St Lawrence’s Church, a defunct church with a fascinating history. Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and attend a concert to experience the acoustics of this ancient building.
Explore Evesham’s Natural Beauty
Apart from its historical attractions, Evesham boasts stunning natural landscapes that are worth exploring. Here are some outdoor activities to enjoy in Evesham:
Abbey Park: Immerse yourself in nature at Abbey Park, the grounds of Evesham Abbey. Take a leisurely stroll along the River Avon, relax by the water play fountain, and enjoy a boat trip on the river in the summer.
Blossom Trail: Witness the beauty of spring in the Vale of Evesham on the Blossom Trail. Drive along country lanes lined with blooming fruit trees and marvel at the orchards bursting into a riot of pink and white blossoms.
Hampton Ferry: Experience a unique mode of transportation at Hampton Ferry, a pedestrian cable ferry that crosses the River Avon. Take a scenic walk to the ferry and enjoy the picturesque views of the countryside along the way.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Evesham
Evesham is a great destination for families, with a variety of attractions that cater to all age groups. Here are some family-friendly activities to enjoy in Evesham:
Evesham Vale Light Railway: All aboard the Evesham Vale Light Railway for a scenic journey through the countryside. Ride on a steam or diesel locomotive and disembark at Evesham Vale Station for a relaxing picnic in the orchard.
All Things Wild: Embark on an animal-themed adventure at All Things Wild, a family attraction with indoor and outdoor activities. Explore life-sized dinosaur models, interact with lemurs, and enjoy hands-on experiences with farmyard animals.
Evesham River Boat Festival: Join the festivities at the Evesham River Boat Festival, a two-day event filled with fun activities for the whole family. Watch the illuminated flotilla, enjoy live music, and sample delicious food from local vendors.
Indulge in the Arts and Culture of Evesham
Evesham is not just about history and nature; the town also offers a vibrant arts scene for visitors to enjoy. Here are some cultural attractions in Evesham:
Regal Cinema: Catch a movie with a twist at the Regal Cinema, a beautifully restored Art Deco theater. Watch blockbuster films, comedy shows, and live music performances in a unique setting that harks back to the golden age of cinema.
Evesham Arts Centre: Immerse yourself in the arts at the Evesham Arts Centre, a volunteer-run venue for drama and performing arts. Attend a play, musical, or comedy show and support the local arts scene in Evesham.
The Fleece Inn: Step back in time at The Fleece Inn, a National Trust pub with a history dating back to the 1400s. Enjoy a pint of local ale and discover historical artifacts, including pewter ware rumored to have belonged to Oliver Cromwell.
Uncover Hidden Gems of Evesham
Beyond the popular attractions, Evesham is home to some hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path places to explore in Evesham:
Middle Littleton Tithe Barn: Delve into Medieval life at the Middle Littleton Tithe Barn, a National Trust site with a fascinating history. Marvel at the architectural beauty of this 12th-century barn and learn about its role in storing produce for Evesham Abbey.
The Valley: Discover a unique shopping and leisure destination at The Valley, a sprawling site with a mix of country park, garden center, and adventure playground. Shop for outdoor gear, take a leisurely stroll, and let your kids play in the castle-like playground.
All Saints’ Church: Visit All Saints’ Church, a Grade I listed parish church with a stunning Perpendicular Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate carvings and stained glass windows, and explore the churchyard shared with St Lawrence’s Church.
Evesham may be a small town, but it is brimming with history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or art enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Evesham. So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to uncover the best of Evesham in Worcestershire, England.
Remember, the next time you’re in Evesham, don’t forget to visit these top 15 attractions for an unforgettable experience!