The Severn Vale is steeped in history with wonderful waterscape
The Severn Vale, situated between the Cotswold scarp and the Royal Forest of Dean and Leadon Valley, extends from Tewkesbury in the north to the Severn Bridge in the southwest of Gloucestershire. This region weaves a tapestry of historical significance and agricultural heritage along the winding River Severn. Orchards and meadows grace the picturesque vale, adorned with red-bricked structures, some boasting half-timbered architecture steeped in history.
At the northern tip rests Tewkesbury, an ancient town where the Rivers Severn and Avon converge. Its unchanged layout from the Middle Ages presents a stunning medieval townscape with fine buildings and narrow alleyways. Tewkesbury Abbey, dating back to the 12th century, presides over the town, while historical events, like the pivotal Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471, mark its past.
Further south, Gloucester thrived as an inland port through the Gloucester-Sharpness Canal, fostering trade during the 18th century. Berkeley, nestled in the southern plains, houses the historic Berkeley Castle and the Edward Jenner Museum, paying tribute to the renowned doctor's smallpox vaccine discovery.
Wildlife flourishes, showcased at the Wildflife & Wetlands Trust in Slimbridge. WWT Slimbridge is a renowned wetland reserve, boasting diverse habitats and avian species, it's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering serene walks, informative exhibits, and interactive experiences amidst its tranquil marshes and wetlands.
