26/05/25 - Alfrick to Leigh, Worcestershire

From Barn to the Bank House 

Today's walk comes courtesy of Christopher Sommerville, walk correspondent in The Times. A couple of weeks ago, there was a route in remote Worcestershire. 

The walk is all green lanes, agricultural countryside and the banks of Leigh Brook. Very remote, so not surprising that the only other humans encountered were also using Sommerville for bank holiday inspiration.

Alfrick Church

The key point of interest is Leigh Court. A manor house, a Tithe barn and a Church. 

Both the barn and the church open for exploration. Who wouldn't want to poke their nose into one of the finest examples of medieval carpentry?

The Church is filled with C17th memorials and a Norman font.

From 1325 - one of the largest cruck-framed buildings in the land

Norman Font at Leigh

Of all the memorials, I was most struck by this happy chappie

Alfrick is home to 528 souls. For entertainment, they have a community shop and a village hall. The only pub, The Swan, closing down in 2000 and now a private residence. Information scarce, but I did find this 1950s photo of the locals and a bar manager, a Mr Barker, who was still running the pub as Worcestershire oldest landlord until his death in 1997.

Time Gentlemen Please

In the mood for pub archaeology, I consult the Historic Inns Book. The Bank House Inn is just a mile away from the Tithe Barn. It's still a going concern, but not as described in the 1960s. Its a quite horrible golfing hotel. I was unsure if the original building even still exists. If it does, it has been swamped by dormitories of hotel rooms and function suite or two.

Scampi in a basket always a winner

Travel Tavern Vibes

Of course, I ventured in. An unmanned reception desk and bewildering signage, where it looked best to follow the directions to the Sportman's Bar. Unmmaned. Saved me from myself and ordering an Estrella Galicia. The only vaguely interesting drink on.

Walk Details

Distance - 7.5 Miles

Geocaches - 2

Walk Inspiration - The Times