THE NEIGHBOURHOOD The town of Evesham is most conveniently situated as a centre from which to visit the broad vale and the surrounding hills.

Within a comparatively short distance a great variety may be noticed in the general aspect of the country, and this is due not only to the contour of the surface and the nature of the soil, but also to the manner of cultivation; and, as has already been indicated, to the material employed in the buildings.

The vale itself is sheltered, and the soil productive and capable of high cultivation, consequently the greater part has been utilised for agriculture.

Lately the market-gardening industry, originating possibly in monastic times, has increased enormously, and the appearance of the country for many miles round Evesham has been transformed.

In springtime the effect of the plum-blossom is surprisingly beautiful; and in the autumn a luxuriant effect is given by the heavily-laden trees bending beneath their weight of yellow or purple fruit.