Pershore Civic Society Discovers the Hidden History of Bewdley

Nineteen members of Pershore Civic Society crossed Worcestershire on Thursday 3rd September 2026 for an entertaining and informative afternoon exploring the historic town of Bewdley.

The visit was hosted by Richard and Sue Perrin of Bewdley Civic Society, who provided members with a fascinating insight into some of the buildings, personalities and architectural details which have shaped the town over the centuries.

The walking tour began in Load Street at the bronze statue of Stanley Baldwin, three times Prime Minister and perhaps Bewdley’s most famous son. From there the group visited St. Anne’s Church before continuing along Load Street, where Richard encouraged everyone to look more closely at the historic buildings lining this impressive street.

Among the features highlighted were the numerous former carriage entrances which survive between buildings, together with fine architectural details which can easily escape the attention of the passing visitor. The variety of buildings and their changing uses provided a reminder of Bewdley’s long history as an important market and trading town on the River Severn.

The party then made its way along the High Street, stopping at the Catholic Church where members were welcomed by Deacon John O’Brien. He explained the interesting history of the building, which was originally constructed as a Presbyterian church before later becoming a Roman Catholic place of worship.

Religious history formed an important theme of the afternoon. The group also encountered buildings associated with Bewdley’s Baptist, Methodist and Quaker communities ,demonstrating the strong Nonconformist traditions which once formed an important part of the town’s social and spiritual life.

Continuing through the historic streets, members stopped to admire Stanley Baldwin’s birthplace before descending Lax Lane, passing the Bewdley Brewery and making their way towards Severn Side South. Here the River Severn provided an attractive backdrop and a reminder of the river’s fundamental importance to Bewdley’s history, prosperity and distinctive character.

After an afternoon spent exploring streets, churches and buildings, the tour concluded in the Museum Café, where members enjoyed very welcome tea and cakes.

Pershore Civic Society expressed its warm thanks to Richard and Sue Perrin for their generous hospitality and for sharing their enthusiasm and detailed knowledge of their town.

The visit provided another excellent example of the value of links between neighbouring civic societies – discovering the history on our doorsteps while exchanging ideas about celebrating and protecting the distinctive character of Worcestershire’s historic towns.

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