Ashleworth

The main reason to visit is Ashleworth Quay, a remarkably well-preserved Tudor riverside warehouse from the 15th century and one of England's finest surviving examples of its kind. It reflects the village's historical significance as a medieval trading hub, and the National Trust runs the site, allowing you to see firsthand how commerce operated along the Severn in those times.

St Andrew's church, the village church, deserves a visit for its medieval wall paintings, which came to light during relatively recent restoration work. Beyond these specific attractions, Ashleworth's real appeal lies in its atmosphere—it's somewhere you can wander along the riverbank, watch the water move, and actually feel distant from the busier corners of the Cotswolds. The riverside setting also makes it convenient for visiting Gloucester's cathedral and museums, or venturing into the Forest of Dean, both easily accessible by car.

The village itself has limited places to stay, so you'll want to base yourself in nearby Gloucester or in larger towns like Cheltenham, around half an hour away, where you'll find all the accommodation and services you need.