Inkberrow, a village in Worcestershire, has been crowned the second prettiest place in the West Midlands, according to a list compiled by Love Exploring. Bournville, the famous chocolate-box village, took the top spot.
What Makes Inkberrow Stand Out
Love Exploring praised Inkberrow for its 'chocolate-box' cottages with steeply pitched roofs, exposed beams, and warm stone walls set in manicured gardens. The village is also known as the inspiration for Ambridge, the fictional setting of BBC Radio 4's long-running drama The Archers. The resemblance includes the Old Bull Pub, which mirrors the fictional Bull pub in the show.
Other contenders for the title included Kinver in Staffordshire, famous for its rock houses, and Berkswell in Warwickshire, known for its medieval charm and Norman crypt. However, Inkberrow's unique blend of literary heritage and natural beauty secured its position at number 23 on Love Exploring's list of the prettiest places in England.
Top Attractions in Inkberrow
Visitors to Inkberrow can explore several notable sites:
- The Old Bull Inn: A 16th-century coaching inn serving real ales and home-cooked food, believed to be the inspiration for The Archers' Bull pub.
- St Peter's Church: A 12th-13th century parish church with a striking spire and historic stained-glass windows.
- The Old Grammar School: A well-preserved 16th-century building adding to the village's historic character.
- Inkberrow Millennium Green: An eight-acre public space with a medieval moat, fishpond, wildflower meadows, and views stretching to the Brecon Beacons.
- Gannow Wood: Known for bluebells and wild garlic, along with wildlife like owls and kingfishers along the River Arrow.
Why Inkberrow Is a Great Base
Inkberrow's location makes it ideal for exploring Worcestershire and beyond. Nearby attractions include Coughton Court, a National Trust property with ties to the Gunpowder Plot, and the Heart of England Forest. The village is also close to Evesham, the Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon, and the Vale of Evesham. Walking and cycling routes abound, with links to the Malvern Hills, Clent Hills, and Broadway Tower Country Park.
According to Love Exploring, 'Inkberrow is celebrated for its chocolate-box cottages... If their quaint, symmetrical design reminds you of a story, you’d be correct: Britain’s longest running radio drama, The Archers, is said to have been inspired by the village.'
Full List of Prettiest Places in England
Love Exploring ranked 48 locations across England, with Bournville leading in the West Midlands. Other notable entries include Clovelly (Devon), Ilam (Staffordshire), Castle Combe (Wiltshire), and Haworth (West Yorkshire). Inkberrow was the only Worcestershire village to make the list.
