Pictures of Stourport-on-Severn

About Stourport-on-Severn

This delightful riverside town gained acclaim when it was created a canal port in the year 1766 following the opening of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal, built by James Brindley. Up until now barges regularly plied the River Severn, brim full with goods from Bristol, destined for the Midlands. The opening of the new waterway, cemented navigation between the Rivers Severn and Trent, thus spreading even further the new prosperity enjoyed by riverside towns. History records the damage the coming of the railways caused to these towns when the Barges were put out of business and the canals fell into disrepair. Fortunately, Stourport-on-Severn, has survived as the only example of a purpose-built river port in England. It remains today as a glowing tribute to the brilliance of James Brindley and is a lively venue for all those who love and enjoy river-life.

Boating enthusiats flock from all over to explore and enjoy this wonderful stretch of tranquil waterway. Here there is mile after endless mile of green and reed fringed banks, enlivened by the twittering of ducks, moorhens, herons and other riverbirds who survive along the thickly shrouded banks. Swans provide a graceful splash of white as they float between gaily coloured craft. Fishermen, smile on this peaceful scene as they caste a line in search of a good catch, it is a soul searching landscape where river and sky blend together, creating a giant canvas.

The town itself shows many handsome buildings of note-these include the old Areley Inn, built in 1772 to accommodate merchants and river travellers, it is now the Tontine Hotel. The Clock Warehouse, is the home of Stourport Yacht Club and a centre for the basins, while York House, overlooking the docks of the upper basin, was once the home of Aaron York, a local boatbuilder. This property was completely refurbished at the turn of the century and put to good use as a medical centre. Just a short distance away is the parish church of St.Bartholomew's at nearby Areley Kings, it is of Norman origin and is quite beautiful with many reminders of an ancient past.

Overall, this town is delightful, with a good mix of old and new it offers something for everyone. Hartlebury Castle is but a short distance away and the Severn Valley Steam Railway delights young and the not so very young, whilst the West Midland safari Park offers an interesting and fun time for all the family. It is though and perhaps always will be, the fascination of the glorious River Severn that will call you back, time, and time, again.