History & Heritage of the Severn Vale
From Tewkesbury to Gloucester and Berkeley – A Riverside Journey Through Time
The Severn Vale is a unique landscape, nestled between the Cotswold escarpment and the Royal Forest of Dean and Leadon Valley. Stretching from Tewkesbury in the north to the Severn Bridge in the south of Gloucestershire, this historic corridor follows the winding River Severn through meadows, orchards and heritage towns.
This picturesque vale is steeped in rural traditions and rich architectural history – from red-bricked farmsteads to centuries-old timber-framed buildings. It is a place where landscape and legacy intertwine, offering a window into Gloucestershire’s past.
Tewkesbury – Medieval Market Town at the Severn’s Edge
At the northern gateway to the Severn Vale lies Tewkesbury, an ancient town where the Severn and Avon rivers converge. Its remarkably preserved medieval layout includes narrow alleyways and striking buildings, with the magnificent Tewkesbury Abbey at its heart. The town was the site of the Battle of Tewkesbury in 1471 – a key moment in the Wars of the Roses, marking it as one of England’s most important medieval locations.
Gloucester – From Roman Glevum to Industrial Port
South of Tewkesbury lies the cathedral city of Gloucester, once the Roman settlement of Glevum. Over centuries, it evolved into a key inland port via the Gloucester–Sharpness Canal, thriving during the industrial era. The legacy of this can be explored at the beautifully restored Gloucester Docks and the impressive Gloucester Cathedral, both cornerstones of the city’s rich heritage. Art lovers can also enjoy the Nature in Art Museum just outside the city.
Berkeley – A Castle, a King, and a Scientific Breakthrough
In the southern reaches of the Vale, Berkeley is home to one of England’s oldest and most dramatic castles. Berkeley Castle dates back to the 11th century and was the scene of the infamous murder of King Edward II in 1327. The town also celebrates the life of Edward Jenner, pioneer of the smallpox vaccine, whose former home is now a museum honouring his legacy in medical science.
Slimbridge – The Global Birthplace of Wetland Conservation
Further south, visitors can discover the pioneering spirit of conservation at the world-famous WWT Slimbridge. Founded by Sir Peter Scott in 1946, it was the first centre of the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust and remains a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Its role in conservation history is global, offering tranquil walks, fascinating exhibits, and family-friendly wildlife experiences all year round.
A Vale of Heritage, Nature and Timeless Discovery
The Severn Vale is a region shaped by centuries of history, framed by natural beauty and infused with rural charm. From the legendary Severn Bore to the grand estates and abbeys that dot the landscape, this is a place where heritage runs deep and discovery is around every corner.
Whether you are visiting for a walk, a historic day out, or a quiet countryside stay – you’ll find the Severn Vale rich in story and spirit.
Explore & Enjoy The Severn Vale!
