Upton upon Severn is a delightful riverside town in Worcestershire with a historic centre full of pretty black and white buildings. Known for its position on the river, giving it historical significance as a trading port and strategic crossing, today it is a thriving modern town. Visit for the quirky, independent shops, fantastic pubs, friendly restaurants and packed festival calendar. Read on for the top 10 things to do in Upton upon Severn…
Boats on the River Severn
To fully take in the beautiful riverside and greenery, why not try a whole different perspective. Severn Expeditions Day Boat Hire offer motor boats that you can hire for a self-guided tour. You don’t need any previous experience or a license, the company are experienced in training people with all you need to know on the day. An exciting opportunity and unexpected way to appreciate an area of stunning natural beauty.
Severn ExpeditionsShopping
Upton boasts an amazing variety of independent retailers along its banks. From vintage furniture and homewares to traditional toys, railway models, and everything in between; the unique finds are second to none. Not to mention the stunning timbered buildings dated from the 17th century and welcoming hospitality establishments for food and drink along the riverside.
Shopping upton upon severnPubs and Restaurants
Historically, Upton was known for being home to an extraordinary number of pubs per capita. Serving a population of just 2000 in 1822, there were a record 17 taverns and inns! Today that number is only 8, but the population remains nearly the same. So enjoy some of the produce from local breweries or a classic favourite in these gorgeous dark-timbered buildings, including Ye Olde Anchor Inn.
If you’re feeling hungry, there is plenty of pub grub on offer but also The Boathouse Restaurant on the riverfront, Mojitos Rum Bar and Pizzeria and a selection of Indian restaurants to choose from. Download the list of Upton upon Severn eateries here.
Bars & RestaurantsThe ‘Pepperpot’ Upton Heritage Centre
The oldest building in Upton, The ‘Pepperpot’, is the remains of a 13th century church. Its iconic gilded crown and imposing architecture can be seen for a way around and is an emblem of Upton upon Severn. The attached gardens include gorgeous floral displays from the Upton in Bloom campaign, overlooking the river. It is also home to the Tourist Information centre with smiling staff to assist with any queries, map books and gift shop. For further information on the history of Upton, you will find an exhibition including touch screen displays.
The ‘Pepperpot’ is open Friday and Saturday in the winter months and Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the summer months.
The PepperpotGreen Spaces
Upton Ham Reserves is a Site of Scientific and Special Interest (SSSI) and is beautiful natural meadow with a range of local flora and fauna. Due to the river Severn bursting its banks with in a natural cycle, silt is distributed by the waters producing a highly enriched and fertile soil. Walks through the meadows are a lovely outside activity for the whole family.
Each year Upton enters the Royal Horticultural Society’s various categories and has many awards to show for it. The volunteers work tirelessly to produce some of the finest floral displays in the country. Throughout the town, displays and planters can be found and are an unmissable sight when you visit during Upton in Bloom.
Upton Ham WalkUpton Bridge
Upton blossomed as a town due to its importance as one of the only river crossings on the Severn for many miles. Its position in trade evolved into a strategic one during the Civil War. The bridge was a key element in a skirmish not long before the Battle of Worcester; although not the modern structure that you will see today. The original bridge created a shoal underneath, grounding boats as they tried to pass by. So the modern bridge was constructed a few yards upstream as to avoid this issue.
Festivals
The riverside town of Upton upon Severn prides itself on the great selection of Festivals it produces. Over 30 years Upton upon Severn has established a reputation for attracting visitors to its wide variety of music festivals; with Blues, Jazz, Folk, Rock and Chill music all on offer. These festivals are well supported by the town centre with its venues, traditional pubs, cafes and selection of quirky independent shops.
A Short Distance Away
National Trust at Croome
Croome is Lancelot “Capability” Brown’s first complete landscape design with a grand Bath stone mansion house, built so the windows have the best vistas of the landscaped parkland. Complete with follies designed by the the renowned Neo-classical architect Robert Adam, a stream with regular sightings of the resident otters and St. Mary Madeline church. Also on site is an RAF Museum and children’s pay area, National Trust tea room with scrumptious cakes and thirst-quenching refreshments. Visit on certain dates in the summer months and you can access The Walled Gardens at Croome. Please note this is additional charge and owned privately.
Clive’s Fruit Farm
Pick your own fruit from the trees and shrubs at Clive’s Fruit Farm. Walk through the Worcestershire countryside, taking in the sun and vines and hand pick your own tasty fruit. It’s a fun day out for the whole family, not to mention the farm shop, butchers, café, child’s play area and wildlife trail.
What’s New in Upton upon Severn
Mini Golf at Café No 8
Having opened its doors to hungry guests last winter Café No 8 on Upton’s New Street is branching out into new territory. Customers can now relax after their meal with a game of mini golf in the sunny courtyard. Specialising in quality cooked breakfasts, including a fantastic full English (as well as its vegetarian counterpart), and delicious lunches including salads, sandwiches and cream teas the café has a great reputation for being welcoming and child friendly. Ace!
