Berth 6 on Upton Lake, Upton-upon-Severn Home on Water

Okay, so you know how most “unique” hotels are just regular places with quirky wallpaper? Well, Berth 6 on Upton Lake is actually the real deal – it’s literally a floating home moored right on the water in Upton-upon-Severn. I mean, when you wake up here, you’re genuinely on the River Severn, not just looking at it from some overpriced waterfront room.

The whole setup is pretty brilliant, honestly. You’re staying in what’s essentially a well-appointed houseboat that’s permanently moored along East Waterside – and if you know Upton at all, you’ll appreciate that this puts you right in the thick of things without the tourist circus you get in places like Stratford. The morning sounds are incredible: water lapping against the hull, swans doing their thing, maybe a narrowboat chugging past if you’re up early enough. There’s something genuinely soothing about the gentle rocking motion, though I’ll admit it takes about twenty minutes to get your sea legs when you first board. The interior doesn’t feel cramped like you’d expect – whoever designed this really understood how to use space efficiently. Big windows everywhere, so you’re constantly reminded you’re on the water, and the furnishings strike that perfect balance between nautical charm and actual comfort. You know what I loved? The little details that show someone really thought this through – proper reading lights, enough plug sockets (thank god), and a kitchen that’s actually functional if you want to grab supplies from the Co-op down the road.

Location-wise, you’re basically in the heart of Upton-upon-Severn, which means you can walk to the White Lion or the King’s Head in about two minutes – perfect for dinner since cooking elaborate meals on a boat, while possible, isn’t exactly why you’re here. The Pepperpot (that’s the weird Tudor tower thing) is right there too, so you’ve got your Instagram shot sorted. Parking’s straightforward along the waterside, and honestly, the whole check-in experience feels refreshingly personal compared to the usual hotel desk routine. The 9.1 rating makes total sense once you’re there – it’s not trying to be fancy, it’s just genuinely different and really well executed. Fair warning though: if you’re someone who needs absolute silence to sleep, the occasional late-night reveler walking along the waterside might wake you up, but that’s village life for you. I’d definitely book this again, especially in summer when you can sit on the deck with a drink and watch the river life go by.