Upton-upon-Severn stands as an iconic and historically rich market town in the scenic Worcestershire countryside. It proudly hosts the River Severn’s largest marina, Upton Marina, and of course Waterfront Living’s floating home development on Upton Lake. We take a look at the landscape, history, events and river that make up this beautiful part of the UK.
The River Severn
Let’s start with The River Severn. The longest river in Great Britain. From its source in Powys in Wales, to its mouth at the Estuary, the Severn stretches for 220 miles. Its history is an even bigger stretch, we’re talking millions of years, and ice age geology. As recently as the 1900s, people were still theorising about its mysteries and how the river had altered its course and formed a large lake in what is now Shropshire.
It’s in Shropshire that the River Severn enters England. Having flowed from its Welsh source it passes the town of Llanidoes before crossing the border and meandering towards Shrewsbury. Soon it finds Worcester, the next major city it encounters and, after flowing through several villages, the River Severn arrives at Upton-upon-Severn.
A great river requires a great marina and in 1975, Upton Marina was officially established, quickly becoming the largest marina on the River Severn. With easy access to inland waterways, Upton Marina serves as a strategic gateway to various destinations across the country. In 2006 it was acquired by Tingdene Marinas Ltd, transforming it into a four gold anchor marina with excellent modern facilities, serving as an ideal location for Waterfront Living’s floating home development.
Upton-upon-Severn in history
Time was that the bridge at Upton-upon-Severn was the only crossing of the river between Worcester and Tewkesbury. Oliver Cromwell’s army crossed the river here to fight and win The Battle of Upton in 1651. It’s all a bit more peaceful nowadays. But the town hasn’t forgotten its fascinating history. The Tudor House Museum is a fund of information and a great place to visit. Its many collections feature artefacts from domestic life, and the town’s railway history.
Music and Upton-upon-Severn
Upton-upon-Severn is justifiably famous for its music festivals. For three decades or more the town has been pulling in visitors and performers to its famous festivals. Key dates for 2023 include –
Upton Blues Festival, 19-21 July 2024
Apart from up to the minute information on this year’s festival you’ll find a fascinating project for an oral history of the event. And of course full booking details.
The Sunshine Music Festival, 22-25 August 2024
Head over to their website for full details of the stages, the ticket and package options and a complete overview of this brilliant musical event.
But live music doesn’t stop there. Upton is a lively place, and there are lots of bars and pubs that feature live music gigs all year round.
Food and drink in Upton-upon-Severn
Upton-upon- Severn really does have some fine hostelries. Places like the The White Lion Hotel offer traditional fine dining. Established in 1510 this ancient town centre inn has a restaurant and brasserie.
For a different take on food try The Boathouse Tapas Bar with its great range of food and wine. Other treats for the taste buds include The Pudding Shop. You can visit them in their kitchen and you can also order and have puddings delivered by courier. Puddings, delivered to your door! You have to investigate this…
For a different kind of treat it’s absolutely worth sampling Clive’s Fruit Farm. Take your dog, wander through the orchards and savour the delights in the café.
All of this is probably giving you the picture of a town that’s active, and lively. And it’s true. Upton-upon Severn is thriving. But that’s not to say that it’s lost any of the tranquillity for which it’s been loved for so long. This is a culturally diverse, artistically vibrant, place but it’s picturesque too. It offers the best of so many worlds. You can shop, eat, drink and just wander here, or you can pull your boots on and set off into the countryside that surrounds the town. Whether dancing at a vibrant festival or savouring a coffee in a tranquil café, this place offers opportunities for self-discovery and the chance to get lost in the moment.
And there’s always the river
Water, and the river, help define this magical place. It’s why people love to live on the water here. Just by Upton Marina you’ll find a stunning new development of Floating Homes at Upton Lake. Here again the area offers the best of several worlds. It’s a new concept for living on the water. With all the magic of living on a boat as well as all the style and creature comforts of modern living, these fabulous floating homes are for those of us who adore the outdoors but take comfort from a comfortable indoors.
Where else would you find such a stunning combination? It has to be Upton Lake & Marina, in Upton-upon-Severn.
To truly understand how amazing a floating home at Upton Lake is, you should see one for yourself. It gives you a special experience of living by the water that’s unlike any other. Reach out today to set up a time to see it with our friendly team.