Consider making a move to Droitwich Spa, a picturesque rural area with easy access to Birmingham via regular direct trains from New Street station in just 35 minutes, or a 40-minute drive down the M5 on a good day.

The area has been praised in the Muddy Stilettos 2025 guide, which highlights its affordability, excellent schools, motorway links, and the town’s unique character, with its elegant lido and charming black and white architecture.

With the fastest train journey to London taking only 2 hours and 10 minutes, it’s little wonder why families and commuters are being drawn to this hidden gem.

A Muddy Stilettos spokesperson said: “With an elegant lido, acclaimed schools and a buzzing metro-feel centre, Droitwich is bang on the money for families searching for a rural retreat with a bit of life.

“The Wychavon District often features high in best places to live charts in the UK and is consistently described as a ‘very friendly’ place.

“Droitwich is a picturesque town sprinkled with Georgian and Victorian houses a-plenty if you’re looking for a home with bags of character, some with stunning views over Droitwich Lido Park.

“With great amenities in the centre, close proximity to bigger towns each way, and scenic countryside just minutes away, Droitwich earns its des res status.

“Affordability is a big plus here. Average house prices flirt around £283,515. The majority of sales in Droitwich in 2024 were detached going for £402,211, semis £296,005, and terraced £200,285.”

“The buzzy community life includes the Droitwich Food and Drink Festival in June, the Wychbold summer fete and the Droitwich Spa Santa Sleigh which ‘delivers presents and good cheer to the whole town’ at Christmas.

“For shopping, you’ll find all the high street faves in St Andrew’s Square but there’s independents too.Families love the state schools, which are rated as Good by Ofsted, together with the much-regarded RGS Dodderhill nursery, co-ed prep and girls’ senior school, high-achieving King’s School and popular RGS Worcester.

“The nearby Jinney Ring Craft Centre and Churchfields Farm Shop are well worth a visit for local produce and gifts and the whole family can splash about at aqua-adventure park at Aztec Adventure just down the road.”

The Robin Hood, with its cosy log fires and comfortable sofas, offers a traditional country pub dining experience. The historic Hadley Bowling Green Inn is another great option for eating out, reports Birmingham Live.

For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, the Michelin and Harden Guides recognised Entouraj Indian fine-dining in Cutnall Green is a must-visit. For a laid-back coffee and cake, Park’s Café Bar in the town centre is the perfect spot.

There’s something for everyone in Droitwich Spa it seems.