The beautiful English county as pretty as the Cotswolds but so much cheaper

Just 30 miles away from the Cotswolds is a pretty cathedral city with all the charm of its neighbour but without the crowds and the exorbitant house prices. According to property website Rightmove the average price of a house in the Cotswolds last year was £448,306 but in Worcestershire that fell to £328,832.

Worcester itself is an historic city that blends a slower city pace of life with plenty of rural charm. It is easily accessible to the surrounding countryside. Estate agents Chancellors describe the city as being "located along the River Severn and bearing a rich tapestry of history dating back to Roman times."

It said: "Renowned for its significance in the English Civil War, the city played a pivotal role during this tumultuous period. Worcester Cathedral stands as a testament to its medieval heritage, while the city's growth as a centre for glove-making and porcelain production contributed to its economic prosperity in the 18th and 19th centuries.

"Today, Worcester remains a vibrant city blending its historic past with a modern outlook, captivating visitors and residents alike with its diverse heritage and cultural significance."

As well as Worcester Cathedral, the city boasts plenty of striking architecture, like the Commandery and the Guildhall. Further afield, there are numerous parks, gardens and riverside walks.

Worcester has good transport links, with train services to Birmingham and London, and easy access to the M5 motorway.

Estate agents Chancellors said: "Compared to larger cities, Worcester often presents a more affordable cost of living. Housing prices and everyday expenses are generally reasonable, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain often associated with metropolitan areas.

"The city prides itself on its educational offerings, making it an ideal location for families. With a range of reputable schools, both state and private, and the esteemed University of Worcester, families find ample opportunities to provide quality education for their children. Accessible green spaces, recreational facilities, and a range of healthcare services contribute to residents leading healthy and active lifestyles."

For nature lovers the county boasts the Malvern Hills, offering spectacular views and scenic walking routes. Composer Edward Elgar and author CS Lewis are two other famous exports of the area. Lewis would frequently walk in the hills with his friend JRR Tolkien, and Elgar sought musical inspiration here. "The trees are singing my music," he once said to a friend, "or have I sung theirs?"

Other outdoor attractions in the county includes Arley Arboretum & Gardens with its diverse collection of trees and plants; similarly there is Bodenham Arboretum and Worcester Woods Country Park. The county is also home to the West Midland Safari Park.

Worcestershire has plenty of pretty villages to give the Cotswolds a run for its money. Ombersley is famed for its black and white timber-framed buildings. Other charming villages include Inkberrow known for its chocolate-box cottages and Bredon nestled at the foot of Bredon Hill.

Malvern is a spa town at the foot of the Malvern Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Again property is generally cheaper in Malvern that the Cotswolds despite offering beautiful scenery and a good quality of life to its residents.

The Financial Times reported: "The Malvern Hills may lack the kudos of the Cotswolds, but this designated area of outstanding natural beauty that straddles the counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and northern Gloucestershire has good schools and beautiful homes, and you can buy more for your money.

"Malvern itself is a former spa town that grew rapidly after the railway arrived in 1860. As a result, there is no shortage of imposing Victorian villas, which were once guesthouses or B&Bs but have now been converted into large family homes with much appeal for Londoners seeking greener pastures."