Living in Stourport on Severn

Stourport on Severn’s community spirit is a key part of its appeal. The town has a welcoming and close-knit atmosphere, characterised by volunteer groups, social clubs, and a lively programme of local events. The annual Stourport Carnival and illuminated boat parades are highlights of the community calendar, drawing crowds from across the region and showcasing the area’s riverside heritage.

Regular markets and seasonal fairs reflect the town’s local pride, while community centres and churches act as hubs for activities ranging from fitness classes to music workshops. The picturesque riverside parks and proximity to the Wyre Forest provide ample opportunities for walking, cycling, and outdoor gatherings. Stourport’s attractive public spaces, including the historic canal basins and river locks, encourage residents to enjoy the outdoors and participate in local life year round.

Stourport on Severn is generally perceived as a safe and friendly community. The town’s crime rates are typically lower than those found in larger urban areas, with most incidents relating to minor anti-social behaviour and traffic-related offences. Areas around the town centre can experience increased activity during busy periods, particularly in the summer tourist season, but community policing teams maintain a visible presence.

The local Safer Neighbourhood Team works actively with residents, schools, and businesses to address concerns and promote crime prevention initiatives. Ongoing regeneration projects, particularly along the waterfront and town centre, are designed to support public safety and create welcoming public spaces. Overall, Stourport on Severn is considered a safe environment for families, with ongoing efforts to maintain its positive reputation.

Parking in Stourport on Severn is generally manageable, with various public car parks close to the waterfront, town centre, and major attractions. On-street parking is available in residential areas, though some streets may require resident permits during peak periods. The town is less congested compared to larger Worcestershire towns, but traffic can build up during major events or holiday weekends.

Stourport has easy access to the A449, which links directly to Kidderminster (approx. 15 minutes), Worcester (approx. 25 minutes), and provides a route to the M5 for connections towards Birmingham (approx. 50 minutes via M5/M6). The town’s road network allows for straightforward travel to nearby areas:

• Bewdley: Approx. 10 minutes via B4194 (4 miles)
• Kidderminster: Approx. 15 minutes via A451 or A449 (4 miles)
• Worcester: Approx. 25 minutes via A449 (13 miles)
• Birmingham: Approx. 50 minutes via A449/M5/M6 (27 miles)

Cyclists benefit from several rural and riverside routes, connecting to neighbouring towns and the local countryside.

Stourport on Severn boasts a lively food and drink scene that caters to locals and visitors alike. The town’s historic riverside and canal basins are lined with popular pubs and traditional inns such as The Black Star and The Angel Inn, both of which offer picturesque settings and classic pub fare. There is a good mix of independent restaurants including Italian, Indian, and Chinese establishments, as well as contemporary cafés like The Windlass, which overlooks the canal and is popular for brunches and homemade cakes.

Several takeaways and family-friendly options can be found throughout the town, ensuring there’s something for every taste. For those seeking nightlife in Stourport on Severn, the local pubs host quiz nights, live music, and karaoke, contributing to a relaxed and social evening atmosphere rather than a bustling club scene. In the summer, open-air dining and riverside beer gardens draw crowds, creating a vibrant atmosphere during longer evenings. The Palace Theatre and cinema in nearby Kidderminster offer additional options for cultural entertainment.

School Quality: Stourport on Severn’s primary and secondary schools are well regarded locally and have received positive Ofsted inspections, offering options for all age ranges and ensuring a strong educational foundation for children.

Parks and Green Space: The town provides access to numerous play parks, riverside gardens, and outdoor spaces, including the nearby Wyre Forest for woodland adventures and family walks.

Childcare: Nurseries and childcare providers operate across Stourport on Severn, with several rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, meeting the needs of working families.

Safety: Stourport’s low crime rates, active neighbourhood policing, and community involvement foster a safe, family-friendly environment.

Family Activities: Rivers, boating, leisure facilities, and regular community events ensure that children and parents can enjoy a wide range of recreational pursuits together.

Stourport on Severn is regarded as a pet-friendly location, with many riverside parks and open spaces catering to dog-walkers and animal lovers. The Severn Way and towpath routes are ideal for daily walks, while the nearby Wyre Forest offers extensive woodland trails suitable for pets. Several local pubs and cafés welcome well-behaved dogs, reflecting the town’s inclusive approach to pet ownership.

There are veterinary practices and pet shops cater for animal health and supplies, ensuring that pet care is convenient and accessible. The attitude towards pets in housing is generally favourable, with a number of rental properties and local letting agents accommodating pet owners, especially in family homes and rural properties surrounding Stourport on Severn.

Stourport on Severn offers convenient transport connections both locally and to neighbouring towns and cities. Although the town does not have a railway station of its own, nearby Kidderminster station (approximately 4 miles away) provides direct rail links to Birmingham, Worcester, and beyond. Regular bus services connect Stourport on Severn with surrounding areas including Bewdley, Kidderminster, and Worcester, making public transport a viable option for commuters and students alike.

The town sits conveniently close to the A449, providing efficient road access to the wider Midlands motorway network. The M5 motorway is accessible via Worcester or Droitwich, connecting residents to Birmingham, the West Midlands, and the South West. Birmingham Airport is about 36 miles away by road, typically under an hour’s drive in normal traffic. Stourport is also well-placed for cycling and walking routes along the Severn and through the local countryside.

Typical Commute Times:

• Birmingham: Approx. 50 minutes by car or 1 hour by train via Kidderminster
• Worcester: Around 25 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bus
• Kidderminster: Around 15 minutes by bus or car

Stourport on Severn provides a variety of educational choices for families with children of all ages. The area is home to several well-regarded primary schools, including Stourport Primary Academy, a large co-educational school rated 'Good' by Ofsted in its latest inspection (2019). Areley Kings Community Primary School is another popular option, also rated 'Good' by Ofsted (2019), known for its nurturing environment and community involvement. Wilden All Saints CE Primary School offers a more rural setting and has received positive recognition for its inclusive ethos.

For secondary education, The Stourport High School & VIth Form Centre stands out, providing education for students aged 11 to 18. This academy has been rated 'Good' by Ofsted (2018) and offers a range of GCSE and A-level courses, as well as extracurricular activities that include sports and creative arts. Nearby, Baxter College in Kidderminster is another option for secondary education, also rated 'Good' (2021).

While Stourport on Severn itself does not host a college or university, further education opportunities can be found close by. Kidderminster College offers a wide selection of vocational courses and apprenticeships, and Worcester Sixth Form College is a short commute, providing A-level and specialist post-16 education. For those pursuing higher education, the University of Worcester is within easy reach and provides a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, making university-level study accessible to local students.