Worcestershire, a picturesque county within easy reach of Birmingham, has been celebrated in Muddy Stilettos’ new 2026 guide highlighting the best places to live. The guide focuses on family-friendly communities, considering factors such as schools, amenities, local culture, and housing prices.
Topping the list is Bewdley, a charming riverside town set on the River Severn. Known for its strong community spirit, independent shops, artisan markets, and excellent schools, Bewdley offers access to the Severn Valley Railway and West Midland Safari Park. With the vast Wyre Forest nearby—the largest woodland nature reserve in England—it’s a haven for nature lovers. Homes here averaged £323,569 last year.
Bretforton, a quaint village on the edge of the North Cotswolds, offers idyllic countryside living with rose-covered cottages, orchard-fringed paths, and a vibrant village social scene featuring theatre, live music, and festivals. Despite its rural charm, it maintains close links to Broadway and Stratford for additional cultural experiences. Average property prices were £404,773.
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Broadway’s honey-stone high street features independent boutiques, galleries, cozy cafés, and artisan delis that evoke the Cotswold lifestyle. Known for top schools and welcoming pubs, Broadway commands higher house prices averaging £584,051 but delivers a unique blend of countryside elegance and cultural amenities.
Closer to Birmingham, Bromsgrove balances town convenience with surrounding green countryside. Offering numerous cafes, shops, pubs, and quality schools, this lively market town appeals to those seeking a blend of urban buzz and rural calm. Houses here went for an average of £311,237.
Great Malvern, famous for the Malvern Hills’ spectacular views, is a historic spa town that perfectly combines heritage with a vibrant contemporary scene. Featuring independent shops, inviting cafes, excellent restaurants, and a notable theatre, it offers surprisingly affordable housing with an average price of £341,190.
Ombersley, with its charming half-timbered homes, excellent schools, and scenic walking trails, is well-connected by motorway for easy commutes to Birmingham. Known for its family-friendly community spirit and innovative local attractions like a role-play village with a double-decker bus, home prices averaged £536,700.
Tenbury Wells, a colorful market town reminiscent of Dutch scenery, is nestled among hop fields and orchards just over an hour from Birmingham. It is home to the historic Pump Rooms, an art deco cinema and theatre, and a range of independent shops and markets. The average house price here is £320,250.
Upton-upon-Severn completes the list, famed for riverside charm, cobbled streets, and the iconic Pepperpot tower. This lively town boasts excellent schools, a strong community, and a rich live music scene with four annual festivals and numerous pub gigs. Homes sold for an average of £329,674.
Together, these eight locations showcase Worcestershire’s diverse appeal—from vibrant market towns to peaceful rural villages—all offering exceptional lifestyles and a welcoming environment for families.