Attractions and Places To See around Bishampton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Bishampton, Worcestershire, include a charming selection of natural features and historical buildings. This village and civil parish in the Wychavon district offers immediate surroundings rich in village heritage and natural beauty. Visitors can explore local landmarks and viewpoints around Bishampton, as well as natural features near Bishampton walking trails. The area provides a blend of historical sites and preserved natural spaces for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Bishampton
- The most popular attractions is Parsons Folly on Bredon Hill, a man-made monument that is an 18th-century stone tower on a historic hill known for panoramic views across Worcestershire. It is also notable for its Iron Age hillfort and Roman encampment.
- Another must-see spot is Pershore Old Bridge, a historical site that served as a key crossing point for traders between London and Worcester, originally built in the 1400s. This structure has undergone various repairs and rebuilds over centuries, reflecting its historical significance.
- Visitors also love St Mary's Church, Elmley Castle, a man-made monument dating from the late 11th century. This church is appreciated for its character and historic interest, featuring elements from various periods including 13th-century additions and 15th-century alterations.
- Bishampton is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and natural monuments. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient woodlands to significant architectural structures.
- The attractions around Bishampton are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 upvotes and 90 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Parsons Folly on Bredon Hill
Highlight • Monument
The hill was once an Iron Age hillfort, known as Kemerton Camp and it then became an important Roman encampment. In the 18th century, the squire of Kemerton Court erected a small stone tower, Parsons Folly. A number of ancient standing stones also adorn the hill.
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Pershore Old Bridge
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St Mary's Church, Elmley Castle
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St John the Baptist Church, Grafton Flyford
Highlight • Historical Site
The church, with the exception of the 14th-century tower, was entirely rebuilt in 1875, but the old work appears to have been very largely re-used. The modern work is already getting into a very bad state of repair.
The chancel has a 15th-century east window of three lights with a segmental pointed head. In the north wall is a square-headed 14th-century window of two ogee trefoil-headed lights. In the south wall are two square-headed two-light windows and a priest's door, mostly modern. On this side is a single sedile with a cusped head, and near it a pointed piscina with the bowl missing. An internal string-course, largely modern, is carried round the chancel. The chancel arch is of two chamfered orders dying into the wall; the voussoirs are small and regular and are of late 13th or early 14th-century date.
In the north wall of the nave is a pointed 14thcentury arch of two chamfered orders opening into a small chapel with a single-light window on the east and west. Further west is a pointed window of the same date with two lights and a traceried head. In the south wall are two windows, each of two lights and similar to that on the north of the chancel; between them is a plain pointed door. All these features have apparently been restored and reset.
The 14th-century tower is faced with ashlar and three stages high with low diagonal buttresses to the western angles of the ground stage. The tower arch is acutely pointed and of two chamfered orders. This stage rests on a deeply moulded plinth and has a pointed 15th-century west window of three cinquefoiled lights. The second stage is lighted by loops only, but the third stage has a pointed 14th-century window of two trefoiled ogee lights in each face. The parapet is embattled, with carved gargoyles at the angles of the string and panelled and crocketed pinnacles rising above them. From within it rises a low octagonal pyramid of stone capped by a truncated pinnacle set diagonally.
The fittings include a 17th-century communion table with turned legs, a 15th-century semi-octagonal pulpit (on a modern base) having a moulded rail and traceried heads to the panels, and a modern font. In the north chapel is a broken marble monument to Roger Stonehall, who died in 1645. Under the tower are roughly designed paintings on boards of the evangelistic symbols with black letter labels, perhaps of the 16th century; here is also a painted achievement of the royal arms of Charles II inscribed 1687 C.R. In the tracery of the east window are some fragments of 15th-century glass tabernacle work and in the north chancel window are two shields, one with the arms of Mortimer and the other imperfect with those of Beauchamp. In the west window are fragments of white and yellow 15th-century glass in the tracery.
There are five bells, all cast by John Martin in 1676: the tenor is inscribed, 'All men that here my roring sound repent before you ly in ground, M. Robert Baker 1676'; the fourth, 'We wish in heven theer souls may sing that caused us six here for to ring, Amell Doxly, Richard Haynes C.W. 1676'; the third, 'Be it known to all that doth wee see John Martin of Worcester, he made wee 1676'; the second, 'All prayse and glory be to God for ever 1676'; and the treble, 'Jesus be our good speed, God Save the King 1676.'
The plate includes a cup and cover paten, London, 1571, and a plate, London, 1679, inscribed 'Grafton Flyford.'
The registers are in one volume as follows: baptisms 1676 to 1813, burials 1676 to 1812, marriages 1678 to 1777.
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Bidford Bridge
Highlight • Monument
The bridge is wider than a typical packhorse bridge. It dates from the early 15th century but has been repaired many times; in the 16th century stone from Alcester's demolished priory was used. There are eight arches, with cutwaters on the upper side. In 1644, supporters of Charles I demolished the bridge to cover his retreat from Worcester to Oxford - this was repaired in 1650 by Quarter Sessions, for whom Bidford Bridge was a 'county bridge' under its control.
The Heart of England Way walking route uses the bridge.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful medieval bridge over river Avon. Incredibly well preserved given its age.
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Pleasant views of Malvern and the surrounding areas from up there. The folly is ugly as sin but then it IS a folly so... yeah. Not a particularly difficult climb to get up there from either direction.
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The old bridge is picturesque, and its also a great place to while away an hour or two by the river.
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The folly itself actually looks like it really is an industrial tower housing mobile phone equipment, but the views are very good. Nearby is the Elephant Stone - it looks like an Elephant kneeing down. Not far from the Cotswold Stone drystone wall is the circular stone that marks the very top of Bredon Hill.
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Good parking, half a dozen spaces on Woollas Hill, near Deer Park centre. Views on way up to Folly are spectacular. Good to get the climb out the way early with gentle, long descent in to Broadway.
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Quiet Anglican church with some gorgeous mosaics inside. Nice brown signpost on the nearest A-Road, so you won't miss the turn.
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St Mary's Church is a delightful little church full of character and historic interest, set in the picturesque Worcestershire village of Elmley Castle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Bishampton?
Bishampton and its surroundings offer several significant historical sites. You can visit Pershore Old Bridge, a key crossing point for traders since the 1400s. Another notable site is St Mary's Church, Elmley Castle, a delightful church with elements dating back to the late 11th century. Within Bishampton village, explore the historic St. James Church with its 15th-century tower, the Bishampton War Memorial, and numerous 17th-century cottages, including the impressive Manor House built in 1629.
Where can I find natural beauty and viewpoints near Bishampton?
For natural beauty and panoramic views, head to Parsons Folly on Bredon Hill. From its summit, you can enjoy magnificent views across Worcestershire to the Malverns and the Cotswolds. Closer to the village, you can explore the small but dedicated Bishampton Nature Reserve, which preserves natural habitats, or Shorthorn Wood, a 10-hectare wood managed for biodiversity between Bishampton and Throckmorton.
Are there any ancient woodlands or nature reserves to visit?
Yes, Bishampton is close to several natural areas. The Bishampton Nature Reserve, located at the end of Moat Farm Lane, is dedicated to preserving local flora and fauna. Additionally, Grafton Wood Nature Reserve is an ancient semi-natural broad-leaved woodland, jointly owned with Butterfly Conservation, known for its brown hairstreak butterflies and diverse wildlife. Shorthorn Wood also offers an amenity for walkers, horse riders, and cyclists.
What outdoor activities and trails are available near Bishampton?
The area around Bishampton is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the 'Yeald Wood – Rous Lench Church loop' or the 'Muddy Cattle Path Crossing – First View of Bredon Hill loop'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the 'Seaford Ford and Footbridge – Rise & Grind Bishampton loop' and various MTB trails, including those around Bredon Hill. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, road cycling guide, and MTB trails guide for Bishampton.
Are there hiking trails suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, the hiking trails near Bishampton cater to various skill levels. You can find easy routes like the 'Rous Lench Church loop' (around 5.5-5.9 km) or more moderate options such as the 'Yeald Wood – Rous Lench Church loop' (around 8.5 km) and the 'Muddy Cattle Path Crossing – First View of Bredon Hill loop' (around 8.1 km). These routes offer a mix of terrains and distances for different preferences. Explore more options in the hiking guide for Bishampton.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Bishampton?
Several attractions near Bishampton are suitable for families. Pershore Old Bridge is a historical site with a popular picnic spot nearby, making it great for a family outing. St Mary's Church, Elmley Castle, and St John the Baptist Church, Grafton Flyford, are also considered family-friendly historical sites. For nature lovers, Grafton Wood Nature Reserve offers an engaging experience to explore ancient woodlands and spot butterflies. The nearby Inkberrow Millennium Green, with its wildflowers and ponds, is another lovely natural spot for families.
What is the best time of year to visit Bishampton for outdoor activities?
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring nature reserves are generally most enjoyable during the milder months of spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons typically offer more pleasant weather for walking and appreciating the natural beauty of the area's woodlands and viewpoints.
Are there places to eat or stay in Bishampton after exploring?
Bishampton village has options for refreshments. The Dolphin Inn, now housing "Ounce at the Dolphin," is a vital social hub offering quality food in a pleasant environment. While specific accommodation details are not provided, The Dolphin Inn serves as a good spot for a meal or drink after a day of exploration.
What makes Bishampton's local churches historically significant?
The local churches around Bishampton hold considerable historical significance. St. James Church in Bishampton features a 15th-century tower and 17th-century bells, with parts rebuilt in the 19th century. St Mary's Church, Elmley Castle, dates from the late 11th century and showcases additions and alterations from various periods, including 13th and 15th-century work. St John the Baptist Church, Grafton Flyford, though largely rebuilt in 1875, retains a 14th-century tower and reuses much of its old work, including 15th-century windows and 17th-century fittings.
Can I find information about the history of Bishampton village?
Yes, Bishampton has a rich village heritage. A heritage tour of Bishampton highlights its 17th-century cottages, the impressive Manor House (1629), Court Farm, the School House, and the former Baptist Chapel. Many of these buildings are listed, reflecting their historical importance. The Bishampton History Society has also undertaken projects, such as the restoration of the Bishampton War Memorial, preserving the village's past.
What are some unique local landmarks in Bishampton village itself?
Within Bishampton village, you can discover several unique landmarks. St. James Church, with its distinctive 15th-century tower, is a central feature. The newly restored Bishampton War Memorial is a significant point of interest. The Dolphin Inn, a historic pub, has been a social hub since the early 1800s. Additionally, the former Bishampton Chapel, built in 1844, and numerous listed 17th-century cottages contribute to the village's charm and historical character.
Most popular attractions around Bishampton
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