7 Best Walks Near Upton-upon-Severn
Upton-upon-Severn sits in genuinely good walking country. The town itself lies directly on the Severn Way, a 220-mile riverside path running the length of the River Severn, and the Malvern Hills are only a short drive away if you want to trade flat riverside paths for proper hill views.
Whether you've got twenty minutes or a full afternoon, here are the best walks in and around Upton-upon-Severn.
Best Walks in Upton-upon-Severn
1. The Severn Way Through Upton
Upton-upon-Severn sits directly on the Severn Way, a long-distance path that follows the River Severn from its source in Mid Wales all the way to Bristol. You don't need to walk anywhere near the full 220 miles to enjoy it, even a short stretch along the riverbank through town gives you an easy, flat walk with genuinely lovely views back across the water.
The path crosses at Upton's own bridge, so it's easy to pick up right from the town centre without needing to drive anywhere first.
2. Upton-upon-Severn Circular Walk
For something a little longer, this circular route starts from Banwell Park Sports Ground on Old Street, crosses countryside out to the isolated church at Queenhill, then joins the Severn Way to follow the river back into town. It's a good mix of open countryside and riverside walking, and it's detailed in full, including a downloadable map, on Walking Britain.
Worth noting: the route starts near the town centre, which can get busy during Upton's festival weekends, so it's worth picking a quieter date if you'd rather avoid the crowds.
3. Upton-upon-Severn to Tewkesbury
If you're after a proper one-way walk rather than a loop, the stretch of the Severn Way heading south from Upton toward Tewkesbury is a good option, with wide, open riverside pastures and views out toward both the Malvern Hills and the Cotswolds on a clear day. It's a longer undertaking than the other walks here, so it's best suited to those happy to arrange transport back, or make a full day of it.
Best Walks in the Malvern Hills
A short drive from Upton, the Malvern Hills offer a completely different kind of walking, proper hill terrain, panoramic views, and waymarked routes for pretty much every ability. The Malvern Hills AONB is the official source for route maps, dog walking guidance, and accessible trail options.
4. Malvern Hills Circular
Starting from Priory Park in Great Malvern, this is one of the most popular routes in the area, climbing up past the Holy Well (said to be the source of the first bottled water in the UK) and on toward Worcester Beacon, with sweeping views across the Severn Valley for most of the climb.
5. British Camp and Herefordshire Beacon Loop
This shorter, well-loved route takes in the earthworks of an Iron Age hill fort at British Camp, with fine views in every direction from the top of Herefordshire Beacon. It's a good option if you want a genuine hill walk without committing to a full-day route.
6. Worcestershire Beacon Loop from Great Malvern Station
This route climbs to Worcestershire Beacon, the highest point in the Malvern Hills, and has the advantage of starting right from the train station if you'd rather not drive. The climb is a proper one, but the views from the top, across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, and beyond, are some of the best in the area.
7. Gentler and Accessible Options
Not every walk here needs to involve a hill climb. The Malvern Hills AONB maintains a set of Easier Access trails specifically for those looking for something gentler, along with guidance for walking with dogs. These are worth checking directly on the AONB's walking pages before you visit, since routes and access can change from time to time.
Between the river paths through Upton itself and the hills a short drive away, there's a genuine variety of walking here, whatever kind of day you're after. If you'd like to see more of what the area has to offer beyond walking, our guide to 10 Things to Do in Upton-upon-Severn covers the rest.
And if all that walking has you thinking about what it would be like to have views like these on your own doorstep, every day, you can find out more about life at Waterfront Living, just outside the town.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you walk from Upton-upon-Severn to the Malvern Hills?
The hills are a short drive away rather than a direct walk from the town centre, but they're close enough to easily combine with a visit to Upton itself.
Is the Severn Way walk suitable for beginners?
Yes, the sections of the Severn Way through and around Upton are flat and well-waymarked, making them a good option for less experienced walkers or anyone after a gentler route.
Are the Malvern Hills walks dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the Malvern Hills, and the AONB provides specific guidance on dog walking and access on its website.
What is the highest point in the Malvern Hills?
Worcestershire Beacon is the highest point, reachable via a circular route starting from Great Malvern train station.
How long is the Severn Way?
The full Severn Way runs 220 miles from its source in Mid Wales to Bristol, though the stretch through Upton-upon-Severn can be walked in short, easy sections.
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