The Marches

Introducing The Marches

Perhaps it’s the crisp ciders and mellow ales enjoyed after a long day’s hill-walking, or the warm glow from eating fine foods fresh from the surrounding fields. Possibly it’s the sensation of exploring border villages that seem to have been slumbering since the Middle Ages. Or maybe it’s the time spent patiently pondering life as you potter along behind tractors on winding country roads. For whatever reason, the Marches is a beautiful corner of England that imbues a rare sense of peace and perspective.

It wasn’t always so tranquil here. For centuries the untamed border with Wales reeled with ferocious fighting for control or independence, and the rippling hills are scattered with castles and ruins that testify to the tumult of times past. Today, however, the unhurried pace of rural life is addictive, and a wonderful balance between Welsh and English cultures has been struck. It’s a region where you can be assured of a warm welcome, a wealth of simple country pleasures and a fine time romping around the surging hills and lush farmland by foot, pedal or four wheels.

Seriously beautiful Shropshire is home to enchanting Tudor capital Shrewsbury; a remarkable World Heritage site at Ironbridge Gorge; an epicurean enclave at historic Ludlow; and soul-restoring scenery in the south Shropshire Hills. Further south, sleepy Herefordshire boasts lovely landscapes that uncoil along the canoe-friendly meandering River Wye and fairy-tale black-and-white villages, while Worcestershire has its historic capital, dignified Victorian hill resorts and the dramatic Malvern peaks.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009