Inkberrow

Astwood Bank where the Trail starts is a suburb of Redditch. The name Astwood is derived from Old English for ‘east wood’ - the wood lying in the eastern part of the parish of Feckenham. A settlement of this name grew up in the vicinity of Astwood Court. The development of the village on the higher land along the Ridgeway came later, and the description ‘Bank’ was then added to the name.

The second village to explore is Feckenham. The village has several examples of black and white half timbered buildings and is particularly attractive. There is a nature reserve called Wylde Moor which is a wetland close by which can be visited too.

Moving onto Inkberrow, the village boasts two traditional English pubs: The Bull's Head, an imposing Georgian building on the main road, and the picturesque black and white half-timbered Old Bull, situated in front of the church and by the Village Green. The Old Bulls present day claim to fame is that the fictional "Bull" in the long-running radio serial "The Archers" is based on it. The pub contains several items of Archers memorabilia, following visits by members of the cast. Both pubs serve meals, and the Bull's Head offers accommodation. The Millennium Green at the foot of Church Hill is well worth a visit. Established to mark the Millennium Year, it is managed by Trustees as a natural open space for the refreshment and pleasure of all Inkberrow residents and visitors. It is a tranquil oasis containing interesting flora and fauna, ponds and a restored medieval moat.

This Murder Mystery Trail starts in Astwood Bank and then after a few clues and a play in the play area, Trailers will need to return to their cars and drive to Feckenham and then onto Inkberrow!

The whole Trail will take around two hours, but of course can be done in three parts!

Although the Trail is written to start in Astwood Bank, there is no reason why you can't start in Feckenham or Inkberrow depending on where you want to end up! It is suitable for light pushchairs.