The gorgeous little market town with a buzzing high street next to UK's longest river

Straddling the banks of the River Severn, the UK's longest river, sits Bewdley, a Worcestershire town that's as pretty as a postcard. Its timber-framed houses, Georgian facades, and bustling high street draw day-trippers in droves, while riverside pubs, cafes and tearooms tempt them to linger.

Add in the famous Severn Valley Railway, which chugs steam trains through the countryside, and you've got one of the Midlands' most inviting destinations. Markets have always been at the heart of life here. Twice a week, on Thursdays and Saturdays, stalls line Load Street with everything from fresh local produce to everyday essentials, bringing a lively, old-fashioned buzz to the town centre. But in recent years, Bewdley has added something extra: the Bewdley Artisan Market, a quarterly event co-founded by locals Sonia Lloyd and Ellie Hooper.

Unlike the traditional weekly markets, the artisan version focuses on handpicked, high-quality stalls - think fine cheeses, handmade crafts, preserves, artwork, and even live sketching demonstrations.

"We wanted to create something that not only showcased the best makers and producers in the region, but also brought people into town to support our high street," Sonia told the Daily Express.

"Everything is carefully chosen, no duplication, so each stall feels special."

Live music adds to the festival feel, with performers raising funds for local charities.

Sonia said: "It's not just shopping. It's about spending a few hours by the river, listening to music, discovering something new, and being part of the community spirit."

The artisan market has drawn crowds of up to 500 people and around 25 traders at each event, despite challenges the town has faced. Bewdley's iconic bridge, a vital crossing over the Severn, was closed for long stretches during major flood defence works, creating traffic headaches and affecting local trade.

"The market gave people a reason to still come into town, park nearby, and wander through the shops, as well as visiting the stalls," Sonia said. "It was about keeping Bewdley buzzing."

The mayor has been a regular supporter, and the town council has championed initiatives to strengthen the high street.

Ben Hale, Economic Growth Manager at Wyre Forest District Council, said: "Bewdley is thriving with independent traders. We've been working closely with local businesses, including through the 'Beautiful Bewdley' campaign, which promoted events and reassured visitors during the bridge closure."

Ongoing investment is adding to the appeal: new flood barriers have recently been completed, and plans are in place to refurbish Bewdley Museum, one of the high street's focal points.

For Sonia, who has lived in the town for 12 years, it's the mix of tradition and energy that makes Bewdley so special. "Between the weekly markets, the artisan events, the railway, and the river, there's always something happening," she said.

"It's a lovely town, a lovely place to live. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

With its riverside charm, year-round markets, and an ever-growing reputation as a hub for independent businesses, Bewdley proves that small towns can offer some of the biggest rewards.