Discover the best things to do in Bewdley, Worcestershire
Local attractions near the Running Horse Inn
There are so many enchanting things to do in Bewdley that we couldn’t resist hand-picking some suggestions. With its gorgeous Georgian architecture and lovely riverside location, Bewdley really is a dreamy destination for a few days away.
Worcestershire offers so much in the way of fun days out, including safari adventures, rides along the heritage railway, and plenty of local history to uncover. And after you’re done exploring, you’ll be able to settle down in the cosy bar at the Running Horse Inn with your favourite pint and some home-style classics. Perfection.
Severn Valley Railway
For a unique experience that’s also incredibly scenic, take a ride along the Severn Valley Railway. This heritage railway route meanders through 16 miles of charming countryside between Worcestershire and neighbouring Shropshire.
You can begin your railway adventure in Bewdley or nearby Kidderminster. There’s a variety of experiences to choose between too, including short journeys to Highley station where you’ll be able to explore the station’s historic Engine House.
Alternatively, you could enjoy a full day out on the tracks with a Freedom of the Line ticket, which lets you hop on and off the steam train at your leisure. Feeling thirsty after all that fun? The Running Horse Inn is the perfect pub near the Severn Valley Railway for a refreshing drink and a bite.
West Midland Safari Park
Perhaps one of the best things to do in Bewdley, Worcestershire is a day out at the West Midland Safari Park. It sits right on the edge of the village and is a magical destination for animal lovers. The park is home to over 160 different species from around the globe, which you can catch a glimpse of on a two-hour safari drive.
Hop in your car and follow the four-mile route through various habitats, spotting all kinds of extraordinary creatures as you go. Highlights include the Kingdom of the White Lions, the Land of the Wild Dog and the Wild Asia area, where you can glimpse rare armoured Indian rhinos.
You can also go on a safari walk to get a little closer to the enclosures, or check out the onsite theme park that’s packed with exhilarating, animal-themed rides.
Wyre Forest
This Forestry England-run woodland is a fantastic spot for a leisurely Sunday stroll. You’ll find Wyre Forest just a short hop west of Bewdley town centre and it’s actually the largest woodland reserve in England.
As well as uncovering this majestic forest on foot via one of many scenic walking trails, you’ll have a host of outdoor activities at your fingertips. Swap hiking shoes for riding boots on a guided horse trek through the trees. Bring your bikes and embark on a leisurely cycle ride. Or challenge your balancing skills at the forest’s Go Ape centre. With or without kids, we think it’s one of the best things to do in Worcestershire.
Bewdley Museum
If the town’s Georgian heritage has captured your attention, take a stroll down the road from the Running Horse Inn to Bewdley Museum. This free local history museum is awash with brilliant displays, vintage photographs and ancient artefacts that paint a vivid story of the town’s past.
Step foot into a 19th-century slaughterhouse, visit Bewdley’s historic town jail cells or see what it was like to hunker down in a Second World War air raid shelter. The museum is also brimming with brilliant artwork featuring the town and surrounding countryside throughout the centuries.
Finally, why not finish off your visit with a stroll through the museum’s walled sensory garden that’s bursting with fragrant herbs. All in all, this is easily one of the top things to do in Bewdley.
Witley Court and Gardens
An afternoon spent strolling through Witley Court and Gardens should definitely be on the cards if you’re searching for things to do in Bewdley and the surrounding area.
Standing in the shadow of Witley Court’s grand facade, you can almost imagine revellers in ball gowns and top hats gracing its opulent halls. That’s because this now-ruined mansion was once the site of many parties during the Victorian and Edwardian periods – and it still retains much of its romantic charm today.
Despite being the victim of a huge fire during the 1930s, this English Heritage house is eerily beautiful, with landscaped gardens that are vibrant with blooms during the spring and summer months.