The thriving village of Welland lies south east of the magnificent Malvern Hills in Worcestershire, with a Post Office, village shop and its very own family-run vineyard, producing award-winning wines which can be purchased directly from the owners. Castlemorton Common provides many lovely walk and cycle rides, part of which is a designated SSSI due to its vast array of wildlife, flora and fauna. The beautiful Worcestershire town of Malvern dates back to the Bronze Age and is situated on the eastern side of the dramatic Malvern Hills. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the hills form a nine mile range of ancient rock, which offers 100 miles of footpaths and bridleways with natural springs and long distance views in all directions. The town holds antiques fairs, WI country markets, farmers’ markets and many auctions throughout the year, as well as the Great Malvern Food Festival in June. The Malvern Theatre welcomes productions from the West End and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Fishing and river cruises are available nearby and there are National Trust properties and gardens to visit in the area. Malvern has many individual shops, cafes, art galleries and restaurants, a luxurious spa, and is also home to the Three Counties Showground. Malvern is the home of the Morgan car, which makes this area popular with enthusiasts. The pretty town of Upton upon Severn lies on the banks of the River Severn and boasts a variety of delightful 17th century buildings and attractive shops, including The Pudding Shop, traditional inns and cafes and its very own museum. It also plays host to many annual festivals, including Jazz, Folk and Blues Festivals, as well as the Sunshine Music Festival. This small, thriving town has its own marina, a vineyard and a well-stocked farm shop at the local fruit farm, plus the town’s medieval church, which is now a Heritage Centre, is topped by a striking 18th century cupola, known locally as The Pepperpot. The picturesque Forest of Dean, with its range of attractions, is only 30 miles away, and the cathedral city of Worcester and waterfront city of Gloucester are also close by.
