Pictures of Droitwich Spa
About Droitwich Spa
It is unsurprising that this delightful town was the most frequently mentioned town in the Domesday Book, for at that time Droitwich was England's major salt producing centre. Salt continued to be produced here and the medieval period saw Droitwich as the only industrial specialist in the Midlands, it is salt production that brought stability and prosperity to Droitwich. The town continued to flourish and the Norman period gave Droitwich the beautiful church of St.Augustine, a handsome church that contains many relics from the past.
One of the most famous buildings in Droitwich is at the northern end of the town. The great mansion, now known as the Chateau Impney, was built by John Corbett, the son of a Black Country barge owner, born in 1817. John rose to become an industrial giant, fondly referred to as the 'Salt King' and he is said to have built the house in honour of his Wife, who is believed to have been educated in France. The mansion built in red brick and buff stone is an architectural triumph of Louis XIII style. It is a house of quality, with tall turrets, wide windows, sweeping staircases and, it is set in magnificent parkland. It is a place well worth a visit if only to stroll in the grounds and admire the glorious open views. John Corbett became MP for Droitwich, he was a benefactor and champion of Droitwich and it is said that at the time of his death in 1901 that he owned half of the town.
Another 'must' to be visited in Droitwich is the magnificent church of the Sacred Heart. Built of red brick in true Basilica style, with elegant columns, the church is a masterpiece of style inspired by the beautiful city of Ravenna. The interior is entirely adorned with mosaic made from millions of glass tiles. Over 100 religious figures are depicted including St.Richard of Droitwich, Bishop of Chichester. This church has an elaborate beauty and a magical atmosphere, it is a constant source of fascination that at times is quite simply overwhelming.
Many people attend Droitwich for the healing properties in the waters. The first Royal Brine Bath was built here in the 19th-century when they became famous for treating many medical conditions. The baths closed in the 1930's but a new Brine Bath Complex was opened in 1985 and is popular amongst sports men and women as well as the general public
Droitwich in spite of it's industrial history has a quiet air of gentility and there are many lovely Victorian and Edwardian properties to be seen in and around the town. In recent times there has been a great deal of development, fortunately the new build blends harmoniously with the old and so Droitwich retains it's charm. It is a delightful town to visit, there is excellent shopping and some good restaurants and inns. Local attractions include the National Trust properties of Hanbury Hall and Hawford Dovecote.
