Visit Tewkesbury

The confluence of the Severn and Avon rivers makes Tewkesbury proper worth a stop, even if you're just passing through Worcestershire. The medieval town centre still feels like something from centuries past - half-timbered buildings lean against one another, narrow streets twist unexpectedly, and there's genuine atmosphere rather than the forced heritage-site feel you get in some places.

Tewkesbury Abbey dominates everything. Built in 1102, it's one of England's finest examples of Norman architecture, and wandering inside you understand why immediately - the soaring columns and sheer scale still impress even now. It's free to explore, which is brilliant. You can spend as little as thirty minutes wandering round or longer if medieval stonework holds your attention. The town saw significant action during the Wars of the Roses, so history types will find plenty to get their teeth into.

Walkers should follow the riverside paths - they're proper lovely, especially where the two rivers meet. Kids won't stay entertained all day, but an hour or two exploring the town and abbey works well before heading to somewhere more hands-on. The caravan parks cluster right here - Tewkesbury Abbey Caravan and Motorhome Club is barely a five-minute walk from the centre, and Millavon Holiday Park is equally close. Croft Farm Water Park two miles out offers more facilities if you need them.

Go midweek if you can. Weekends bring coach loads through, and the narrow streets clog up quickly. Early morning light on the abbey stonework is genuinely stunning.