Attractions and Places To See around Aston Somerville - Top 20

The area around Aston Somerville is rich in history. You can explore Parsons Folly on Bredon Hill, an 18th-century tower on an ancient Iron Age hillfort and Roman encampment. Another significant site is Broadway Tower, a unique 'Saxon' castle designed in 1794. Don't miss Chipping Campden Historic Market Town with its 1627 market hall, or the impressive 15th-century St Peter's Church, Winchcombe, known for its gargoyles and a unique altar cloth. St Mary's Church in Aston Somerville itself has Norman origins and a 13th-century effigy.

For breathtaking views, head to Broadway Tower, which stands at 1,024 feet (312 m) above sea level and offers vistas stretching into 16 counties. Similarly, Parsons Folly on Bredon Hill provides scenic views across Worcestershire to the Malverns and south into the Cotswolds from its 981-foot (299 m) summit.

Yes, Aston Somerville is situated within or very close to the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), offering rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. You can also visit Aston Springs Nature Reserve, a protected area for British wildlife in woodlands, meadows, and watersides. Bredon Hill, beyond Parsons Folly, is another significant natural feature with hiking opportunities.

Families have several options. Broadway Tower is family-friendly and offers an engaging historical experience. Cotswold Farm Park and All Things Wild Nature Centre (in Evesham) are excellent choices for children, offering animal encounters and outdoor activities. The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway provides a fun outdoor experience for all ages, and the historic villages like Stanton Village and Chipping Campden are pleasant for family strolls.

The region offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find a variety of hiking trails, from easy to moderate, that allow you to explore the scenic surroundings. For detailed routes, check out the Hiking around Aston Somerville guide. There are also options for gravel biking, with routes like the Broadway Village – Snowshill Village loop, which you can find in the Gravel biking around Aston Somerville guide.

Yes, there are several easy walking routes in the area. For example, the Activity Park Playground – Broadway Village loop from Broadway is an easy 3.8 km walk. Other easy options include the View of the Gap – Bluebell Wood loop from Dumbleton and the Grave of Patrick Leigh Fermor – Alderton Hill loop. You can find more details and routes in the Easy hikes around Aston Somerville guide.

Beyond historical landmarks, you can visit The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway for a heritage rail experience. In Evesham, The Almonry Heritage Centre functions as a museum and art gallery. Broadway Museum, housed in the Tudor House, offers insights into local history. St Peter's Church, Winchcombe also offers significant cultural and historical insights into 15th-century architecture and artifacts.

Stanton Village is often described as one of the most beautiful and unspoilt villages in the Cotswolds, with most houses dating back 400 years and built from local stone. It offers a glimpse into traditional Cotswold life away from the busiest tourist spots.

Many of the walking routes and natural areas around Aston Somerville, particularly within the Cotswolds AONB and on Bredon Hill, are suitable for dog walking. While specific dog-friendly facilities vary, the general outdoor environment is welcoming. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near livestock. For specific routes, refer to the Hiking around Aston Somerville guide.

Visitors frequently praise the spectacular views from spots like Broadway Tower and Parsons Folly on Bredon Hill. The historical charm of villages like Chipping Campden and the unspoilt beauty of Stanton Village are also highly appreciated. The rich history, combined with the natural beauty of the Cotswolds, makes for a memorable experience.

Absolutely. St Mary's Church in Aston Somerville itself is a Grade I Listed building with Norman origins and a 13th-century chancel and tower. Further afield, St Peter's Church, Winchcombe is an impressive 15th-century church known for its 90-foot tower, 40 gargoyles, and an altar cloth believed to have been embroidered by Catherine of Aragon.

Aston Somerville is a charming village with historical roots. St Mary's Church, with its Norman origins and 13th-century features, is a central part of the village's history. For more detailed historical information about the church and the village, you can visit the Worcester and Dudley Historic Churches Trust website: worcesteranddudleyhistoricchurches.org.uk.