ONE thing we can all agree on is that 50p nowadays cannot buy you much (and I would bet 50p on that).

But one thing it can buy is a small rowing trip across the city's River Severn where passengers can admire the best view in Worcester. 

The Cathedral Ferry has been rowing people across the river in Diglis for over 600 years and has been a charitable cause for the past 40 by raising funds for the likes of Acorns, Maggs Day Centre, and St Richards Hospice.

Worcester News: The Cathedral Ferry runs across the weekends.The Cathedral Ferry runs across the weekends. (Image: Newsquest)The small journey, which only takes a matter of minutes, has been acclaimed for its relaxing atmosphere and the best view of Worcester Cathedral which most visitors happen to miss.

So, I decided to kick up my feet, change my usual riverside walk, and take a ride on the Cathedral Ferry.

Today (Saturday) marks the first day back of the service this year as the boat is put to bed over the winter months. 

Worcester News: ALL ABOARD: Barney Burnham and Aidan Binding. ALL ABOARD: Barney Burnham and Aidan Binding. (Image: Newsquest)I was greeted by my ferry person, Aidan Binding, and Doris - the wooden boat and faithful team member who takes passengers on their journey across the river.

As soon as the boat left the Cathedral steps, I instantly felt lifted and relaxed. 

The river had provided a moment of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

The rhythmic push from the boat as the ores hit the water provided a sensation of ease and tranquillity.

Worcester News: STUNNING: The ferry provides beautiful views of the cathedral. STUNNING: The ferry provides beautiful views of the cathedral. (Image: Newsquest)Halfway across, amid the swans, passengers can see the length of the river, taking in Worcester Cathedral, the busy South Quay, and the historic Worcester Bridge.

"It is one of the best places to see the Cathedral because you're in the water," said Mr Binding.

"There is a different type of noise when you are in the water and I think you are more attuned to nature as you are sitting here.

"If there is a game on in New Road, you will sometimes even get the occasional burst of applause. 

"The swans will come up and greet you - it is lovely."

Worcester News: The plaque on the cathedral walls pays tribute to the ferry's long history. The plaque on the cathedral walls pays tribute to the ferry's long history. (Image: Newsquest)It is understandable that each summer, people pay the 50p charge to ride the rustic old rowboat.

Visitors are not just getting the sensation of ease and amazing views but are rowing in the same footsteps as their ancestors. 

You can't get much for 50p but what it does get you is an experience that provides more than the silver heptagon resting in your back pocket.