The Severn Valley is a mainly rural area of mid-western England. The valley is formed by the
River Severn , Britain’s longest river. The region’s boundary is not precise but it runs from around 25 miles due west of
Birmingham in the West Midlands. It reaches down as far south as
Gloucester and its northerly point is
Ironbridge . The area to the north of
Bridgnorth is known as the
Ironbridge gorge and has steep sides. The Severn Valley is characterised by a broad riverbed and a fast flowing river that is surrounded by a small flood plain and gently rolling wooded hills. The soft sandstone banks of the Severn in this area make it difficult to build bridges that can bear heavy loads. For this reason the only public road bridges are at Bridgnorth and
Bewdley . This means that there is no way for road traffic to cross the river for a 16-mile stretch. Riverside footpaths run along for almost the entire length of the Severn Valley on both sides, and these include the Severn Way long distance footpath. The valley is host to the Severn Valley Railway steam heritage line which runs from Bridgnorth, Shropshire and to Bewdley, Worcestershire in the
Wyre Forest .
More British Natural features?
Other Worcestershire Naturals
Malvern Hills
River Severn
The River Avon (Upper)
Wye Valley
Vale of Evesham
Clent Hills
River Teme
River Wye