In Severn's HEAVEN

Enjoy a laid-back staycation on Britain's longest river

- CHRIS MORLEY

Stepping on board the Edward Elgar feels like travelling back in time. The handsome, S four-star vessel - at 88ft-long, the largest on our inland waters - is a floating hotel on the River Severn, where it sails up and down stream, stopping to explore historic and cultural hotspots. Far from the noise, bustle and light pollution of the daily grind, life's more simple pleasures - such as watching kingfishers dive from the riverbank - are the order of the day.

Timeless charm

I've joined the Severn Vale Discovery cruise, a 90-mile journey over six nights, tracking the distant line of the Malvern Hills. The boat is spacious (there's a bar, dining room and saloon, plus open viewing decks), and has all you need for a comfortable stay, including Wi-Fi, air con and en suite cabins. But in other ways it's delightfully old-fashioned. There's no TV, although there are shelves of books and games, and a quirky commentary crackles into life at points of interest along the way.

With a maximum of 22 guests and a friendly crew of five, there's a relaxed, informal feel. And while there's always someone to chat to, there's plenty of space to curl up on your own, should you prefer.

Moving history