Hampton Ferry (River Avon)

The ferry crossing at Hampton is one of those proper old-fashioned bits of the Avon that most people driving through Worcestershire completely miss. You're looking at a small hand-operated or chain ferry that shuffles passengers and the occasional bicycle across the river between Hampton and the opposite bank - the sort of thing that's been doing this job for centuries, though you'd need to check locally whether it's actually operating on the day you visit, as these things aren't always predictable.

It's genuinely worth a detour if you're a walker or someone who enjoys the quieter side of the Midlands. The riverside setting around Evesham is lovely, and the ferry itself becomes a bit of a focal point for exploring the Avon on foot. You could easily spend an hour pottering about the banks, watching the water, crossing back and forth if you've got the energy for it. Not the sort of thing that'll occupy a full afternoon, mind you, but brilliant as part of a longer riverside ramble.

If you're camped at Orchard Blossom or Bredon-Vale just down the road, this is the kind of walk that justifies getting out of the caravan. It's free to use, though donations might be expected - and there's no facilities, so bring water. Best visited when the weather's decent and the water level's behaving itself. Works well for families with older kids who won't get restless after twenty minutes.