The Worcestershire Way

This varied and inspired walk passes through marvellous landscape, climbing hills, crossing streams, standing up high with miles of glorious countryside stretching all around you, or down in a cool, tranquil valley by the waters edge, being serenaded by songbirds and the bubbling of the water.

The plaintive call of wheeling Buzzards will be your companion as you twist and turn along scenic ridges and through ancient woodlands. Look up and admire them gliding effortlessly on thermals. Along rivers and streams delicate colourful dragonflies hover above the water, and butterflies are feeding on wild flowers that line the hedgerows, meadows and woods.

This much loved walk starts in the fine Georgian town of Bewdley. Climbing the hill at Ribblesford, the route then winds through pleasant countryside to Heightington. From here you will find yourself in glorious remote countryside, with barely a building or road in sight. Narrow lanes, lined with Violets and Primroses in early spring, lead you towards Abberley Hill, though beautiful woodlands. Passing the striking Victorian clock tower, the following climb up the steep Walsgrove Hill will be rewarded with breathtaking views across the Teme Valley.

Old orchards and steep pastures are a feature of the limestone ridges that takes the path to Ankerdine Hill. Hopyards line the route at Knightwick, with oast houses and half-timbered cottages around Suckley as you wander though ancient woodlands, alive with wildlife. Narrow country lanes and high hedges enhance the landscape as you approach Birchwood Common, where Sir Edward Elgar composed much of his music. The Malvern Hills are now tantalisingly close, as you head over Crumpton Hill, though more orchards laden with blossom in spring and apples in autumn. The final climb up North Hill is a fitting climax to a fantastic route, as you stand on the hill and visually retrace the route that you have taken through the hills.

With traditional country pubs dotted along the route and quaint villages and towns offering a variety of services for the walker, whatever time of year you are exploring the Worcestershire Way, it is sure not to disappoint.

Route Information:

Across the west of Worcestershire from Bewdley to Malvern.  

OS Maps:

Explorer 218, 204, 190. Landranger 138, 150.

Buy the Worcestershire Way Walkers' Guide