Medieval riverfront town that’s known as the ‘fruit and veg basket of England’
A SMALL riverfront town in the UK has two rather unusual attractions that tempt tourists – including a festival dedicated to a vegetable.
Located in Worcestershire, Evesham is often overlooked compared to other nearby destinations like Stratford-Upon-Avon and Warwick.
One of Evesham’s most celebrated events is the annual Asparagus Festival, a tribute to the town’s long-standing association with this prized vegetable.
Evesham is famed for producing some of the finest asparagus in the country, often referred to as “Gras” by locals.
The festival, which typically takes place in late spring, features a host of activities including asparagus-themed cookery demonstrations, farm tours, and a lively market where visitors can sample and purchase the freshest produce.
One highlight of the festival is its auction, where bundles of the coveted vegetable are sold to the highest bidder, often raising significant sums for charity.
Avocados aside, the town is well known for all kinds of fruit and veg, as for hundreds of years the Vale of Evesham has been seen as ‘the fruit and vegetable basket of England,’ according to Visit Worcestershire.
If a springtime visit isn’t on the cards, then Brits may want to explore Evesham in August when the medieval festival, the Battle of Evesham takes place.
The battle was fought in 1265 and was a pivotal clash between the forces of Prince Edward (later King Edward I) and the rebellious barons led by Simon de Montfort, Earl of Leicester.
Because the battle had a lasting impact on English history, the town commemorates the historic event each year.
Enthusiasts and history buffs from across the country gather to witness the dramatic recreation of the battle, complete with authentic costumes, weaponry and tactics of the period.
The reenactment is accompanied by a medieval festival, featuring jousting, archery displays, and a bustling medieval market.
Evesham’s next medieval festival will take place in 2025 on the first weekend in August, and it’s even free to attend.
Away from the unusual festivals, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Evesham.
One of the features of the town centre is its Bell Tower, which is actually the remains of Evesham Abbey.
Visitors can also explore the Almonry Museum, housed in a 14th-century building and showcases the town’s history and development from the prehistoric period to the 20th century.
There’s also Abbey Park – an award-winning park that features beautifully landscaped gardens and the remains of Evesham Abbey.
On the outskirts of the town, there’s Evesham Country Park, which has scenic walking trails, a miniature railway, and a garden centre.
Evesham is also home to an Art Deco cinema called the Regal Cinema where live performances often take place.
Another place where visitors can keep warm from the cold is the Red Lion Pub, which dates back to the 1700s.
Evesham is an hour’s drive from Birmingham.
Best staycation locations for 2024
Bristol
The arty harbour city was the top spot on the list and is bursting with culture and trendy cafes scattered along the River Avon.
A bubbling hub for creatives, Bristol is the birthplace of street artist Banksy, and you can admire some of his best early works on a free walking tour.
2. Hull
The Humberside port city started to get recognition last year, and it has a thriving nightlife scene – if that’s something you’re after.
The old town is crawling with history and classy buildings, whose walls have many stories to tell and The Deep is a fascinating aquarium attraction.
3. Isles of Scilly
Just off the Cornish coast, it’s easy to see why the archipelago made it into the top three.
Here, you can expect golden sandy beaches where you will be able to spot dolphins beyond the shoreline, as well as seafront pubs serving up hearty grub.
Another tiny village in the UK has been compared to a retro 1940s film set.
And an abandoned village in England only opens to tourists once a year.