Canal Boating Article: Droitwich
Visit Droitwich from the following marina(s)
Droitwich is situated on the banks of the River Salwarpe in the county of Worcestershire. Salt was extracted in Droitwich as early as Roman times and the natural spring brine is ten times stronger the sea water. It is no surprise therefore that during the Roman occupation the town was known as Salinae. During the mid 19th century John Corbett turned Droitwich into a fashionable spa, he was a salt king and a member of parliament and promoted Droitwich as a health resort.
Droitwich became famous as a Spa town but unlike other Spa towns you did not drink the spa water, which is almost saturated brine, the benefits were derived by swimming and floating in the concentrated salt solution at the town's brine bath. The brine is so salty that the Dead Sea is the only other natural source of salt water able to equal its strength and density.
Vines Park - Set between the Droitwich Canal and the River Salwarpe this pretty park is on the site of the former brine works. Look out for the mosaics which where created by local school children to commemorate the salt workings.
Heritage Centre - Discover the unique exhibitions which are devoted to the long and fascinating story of the only salt-water spa-town in Britain. Experience a truly fascinating exhibition which brings alive the history of radio and enjoy the excellent "hands on" display which will fascinate all radio enthusiasts.
Jinney Ring Craft Centre - Set in landscape gardens visit the collection of 200 year old barns which have been converted into a number of craft studios. From glass-blowers to painters to violin makers to a millinery a host of craftsmen and woman work from the centre. Browse in the gift shop for many unusual and interesting gifts or eat in one of the centres restaurants.
Chateau Impney - Built by John Corbett, a local Salt Barron, in 1875, as a present for his French-born wife who was homesick for her native France. Enchanted by Versailles and the French Chateau in the Loire Valley he decided to build ta copy of a palace in the heart of England. If it looks familiar it is because for many years the nightly Soap - Crossroads used the entrance area as a set.
Hanbury Hall - Built in 1701 by Thomas Vernon this beautiful William and Mary style house is now owned by The National Trust. Stroll around the stunning gardens which include a parterre, fruit garden, grove, orangery, orchard and bowling green. Take home a Hanbury-grown plant for your own garden and enjoy a cuppa and a slice of home-made cake in the open-air cafe.
Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings - Opened in 1967 this open air museum has historic buildings spanning over 700 years. These buildings have been rescued and rebuilt on this picturesque site. Visit the interesting buildings which include a Victorian Mission church, a Windmill and a 1946 Prefab.
Due to subsidence caused by the brine extraction the buildings on the High Street are very wonky adding character to the town. Droitwich shopping is mainly focused in the town centre around the Square which leads to the shopping centre. Droitwich also plays host to regular farmers markets which are held in Victoria Square.
