Come and enjoy the fruits of the Teme Valley for your next UK break. In this green valley, on the banks of the River Teme, you will find mixture of a slow pace of life and an abundance of orchards and hop fields.
The “Little Town in the Orchard”
Despite being only around 40 miles from the busy streets of Birmingham, Tenbury Wells is something of a hidden emerald in the region. Having been aptly described as “My Little Town in the Orchard” by Queen Victoria, in late summer the fields that surround the riverside town of Tenbury Wells are heavy with apples, pears, quince and plum trees. This wealth of produce makes the Teme Valley famous for its yearly holly and mistletoe sales, as well as for producing delicious cider and real ale.
Tenbury is nestled between Worcestershire, Shropshire and Herefordshire as well as being in close proximity to other historic towns like Ludlow and Malvern. In the town itself you will find an eclectic mix of architecture from the 1860’s ‘Chinese-Gothic’ style ‘Pump Rooms’ to the part-medieval bridge over the river. As you mooch around the town find out more about Tenbury’s history by taking the Hidden Tenbury QR Trail. Along the way you will be able to browse a selection of quirky independent shops, or pop in to one of the towns cosy black and white timber-framed pubs.
You certainly won’t go hungry in this abundant valley. Stock up on snacks at Mr Thom’s finest chocolate and sweets shop and Hamper Fayre in Tenbury or pause for some tea and cake in the the Spotty Dog Tea Room. Chill out after the days excitements with tapas and drinks at Unwined or, for a real treat, indulge in the valley’s finest local produce at Michelin star restaurant Pensons.
Things To Do in the Teme Valley
There is something for everyone within a short drive of Tenbury. Cider and beer lovers can sample local ales, fans of history and horticulture can visit the National Collection of Clematis at Burford House Gardens and those looking to explore the outdoors can walk or cycle the Teme Valley Trail. See attractions location in Tenbury Wells and the Teme Valley by clicking here.
Visitors in search of magnificent historical landmarks can take a short trip to Ludlow Castle, Worcester Cathedral or Witley Court. Just 20 minutes drive from Tenbury Wells, Witley Court (English Heritage) offers glorious gardens and a wilderness play area for little ones to enjoy the fresh air. Stay all day and see the romantic ruins themselves and the Italianate Baroque paintings at Great Witley Church, mercifully spared from the fire that destroyed the main building.
There are such a lot of beautiful historic house and gardens within an hour’s drive of Tenbury. Any lover of the old English countryside will be spoilt for choice. On the doorstep is Kyre Park Gardens – a ‘Capability’ Brown parkland with a newly opened antique barn and bistro and 14 miles away are the stunning ‘Capability’ Brown gardens at Berrington Hall. Explore all this great mansion has to offer, or simply lay down your picnic blanket and see if you can spot the elusive herons nesting.
For bigger days out for the family it’s not far to the West Midlands Safari Park where you can see a range of animals including adorable red pandas. Or take a trip on the Severn Valley Railway where you can ride a steam train through the rolling hills and quaint villages along the River Severn. You can hop on and off the beautiful locomotives and explore the area, or sit back and watch the lovely countryside pass you by.
Get stuck into history with the selection of museums and Victorian village at Ironbridge. This World Heritage Site will make you feel like a time traveller as you explore Blists Hill Victorian Town.
Where To Stay in the Teme Valley
After a long day, rest your feet in a chocolate box cottage B&B or a luxury Georgian hotel. Or, for a more thrifty break, camp or caravan where you, and the kids, can ditch the iPads and get back to nature. Use our handy accommodation finder to book the perfect lodgings for your holiday.
Main Image copyright: Wigley Orchard (Hoseasons)
