Pershore: Abbey, fruit-growing heritage and riverside scenery

Explore Pershore through its Abbey and Georgian architecture, its plum and fruit-growing heritage, and the paths along the River Avon. If you are looking for a hotel in Pershore, these highlights can help you plan your stay: would you like to see historic buildings, experience a seasonal festival, or spend time on paths and in green spaces? The town offers something to discover for each of these interests.

The Abbey and Georgian architecture

Pershore Abbey brings together Norman, Early English, Decorated Gothic and Victorian architecture. Guided tower tours include the bell chamber, but not the Ringing Cage. Whether the tours take place depends on the Abbey’s current arrangements; check before your visit. Pershore Abbey Church is also a place with a long history: fragments of the original Saxon building have been found there. The church is also the starting point for a pilgrimage to Worcester along St Kenelm’s Way.

Georgian architecture is also part of the townscape. Broad Street is lined with fine Georgian houses; Pershore is also notable for its Georgian façades and many listed buildings. The town also has a covered market. As the market’s offerings may change, check what is available if you are planning a visit specifically for it.

Cultural offerings and events

The Pershore Heritage Centre in Pershore Town Hall has more than 2,000 square feet of wall and floor space for exhibitions. Number 8 offers films and live events featuring music, theatre and comedy. There are also creative courses and exhibitions of art and designer crafts at The Foyer. The auditorium has 250 seats; there is also a combined café-bar, gallery and event space. The cultural programme ranges from exhibitions and courses to films and live performances.

Plum heritage and seasonal dates

Pershore has been associated with plums since the Middle Ages and is known for its fruit growing. At the Pershore Plum Festival, visitors can taste different varieties of plum and buy freshly picked fruit. The programme also includes live cookery and gardening demonstrations. These offerings are seasonal and may change from year to year. The Plum Fayre and Farmers Market take place on the August Bank Holiday Monday; check the dates for the relevant year if you would like to plan your trip around them.

Riverside scenery, park and walks

The River Avon runs parallel to Pershore’s High Street. In Abbey Park, you can view the wetland habitat from a carved boardwalk; there is also a children’s playground. A wide variety of fruit trees have been planted on the west side of the park. Avon Meadows offers a different view of the landscape: the area comprises 24 hectares of flood meadows, with ponds and shallow pools surrounded by reed beds. A central boardwalk and footpaths provide access for walks.

For a riverside walk, the Pershore Bridges Circular Walk follows the River Avon. The route is fully waymarked, mostly flat, and runs along field edges and the riverbank; it has no livestock gates. If you would rather be out on the water, take a look at the activities of the Worcestershire Kayak and Canoe Club at Pershore Riverside Centre on the River Avon. Boats and equipment are available to hire during club activities. The programme is run by volunteers, and participation is organised through the club.

Getting there by train

Pershore railway station is operated by Great Western Railway. A service run by this company from London Paddington to Hereford stops at Pershore. As routes and stopping patterns can change, check the current timetable before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Harvington, Hadley, Strensham, Clifton Upon Teme, Broadway, Worcester, Great Witley, Offenham.

For the broader travel overview: Worcestershire.