Every year, thousands of visitors travel west from London to explore the idyllic Cotswolds, drawn to renowned spots like Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water. Yet, just a short distance away, nestled along the banks of the River Avon, lies Evesham—a historic market town that often escapes the tourist radar despite being recently named the second happiest place to live in the UK.
Evesham, located in Worcestershire between Worcester, Cheltenham, and Stratford-upon-Avon, offers a unique blend of centuries-old history, agricultural tradition, and convenient transport connections. This charming town is tucked away from the usual tourist trail, yet brims with character and attractions.
The town’s identity is deeply rooted in its fertile surroundings within the Vale of Evesham, an area famed for fruit and vegetable growing since medieval times. By the 19th and 20th centuries, market gardening became central to Evesham’s economy, with asparagus emerging as the town’s iconic crop. Awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, Evesham asparagus is now acknowledged worldwide, much like Champagne or Cornish pasties.
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The River Avon runs through the heart of Evesham, shaping its history and present-day life. In the past, it was a vital route for transporting goods to and from the region. Today, the riverbank serves as a lively focal point for leisure and community activities, including walking paths, boating, and annual events.
Spring and summer bring vibrant energy to the town. In May, the annual regatta attracts rowing teams and spectators to the Avon, while the July River Festival fills the riverside parks with entertainment, live music, and stalls. Nearby Abbey Park offers a picturesque green space blending modern landscaping with medieval ruins, including the bell tower and remains of Evesham Abbey, founded in AD 701. It’s an ideal spot for family outings and hosts regular evening activities such as guided bat walks.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the Almonry Museum, housed in a 14th-century building. Its exhibits explore the local agricultural heritage and key historical events, including the 1265 Battle of Evesham—a decisive conflict during England’s medieval civil wars fought just outside the town.
In 2025, The Guardian ranked Evesham as the second happiest place to live in Britain, highlighting its strong sense of community, historic charm, and access to green spaces. Despite being overlooked by many, the town offers a diverse array of attractions. On its outskirts, Cotswold Vale Alpacas invites families for alpaca walks and feeding sessions. The Valley, a compact shopping and leisure park, features miniature train rides and water play areas popular with children.
A distinct highlight is the Hampton Ferry, a manually operated cable ferry that has connected Evesham with Hampton village across the River Avon for centuries. For evening entertainment, the restored Regal Cinema—a 1930s art deco gem—provides film screenings and doubles as a cafe-bar, perfect for a relaxing night out.
What makes Evesham truly special is its perfect balance of accessibility and tranquility. It’s about 25 minutes by car from Worcester, roughly an hour from Birmingham, and conveniently located on a direct train line to London Paddington, with journeys typically taking around two hours. The nearby M5 motorway makes Evesham an ideal location for commuters and visitors seeking a peaceful historic town with modern connectivity.