A "DISJOINTED town, not always immediately inviting," is how the writers of the world's biggest-selling travel book describe Worcester.

Lonely Planet's new guide to Britain has criticised planners and angered tourist chiefs, who claim the city now attracts 2.5 million people each year.

The book warns visitors of a "bewildering number of name changes" as they head north along the High Street after a "dismal 15-minute walk" from Shrub Hill station.

The decision to demolish Sir Edward Elgar's Victorian music shop is also described as an "extended moment of ill-considered town planning".

The Faithful City is also accused of being caught in a time-warp when it lists the names of the most popular nightclubs.

"Many of the clubs in town have the sort of names that make you wonder if the 1980s are back (perhaps they never left Worcester) such as Tramps and Images. Torch is probably the safest bet, although a train to Birmingham might be wiser still".

But tourism chief Andrea Watkins doesn't think the criticisms will stop people visiting.

"The majority of our tourists indicate they would like to return, which is always a good sign. Our biggest market tends to be the over 45s.

"I don't really think that's the age group targeted by this guide.

"As for the attack on the 80s-style night-clubs I think Worcester has always had a reputation for a lively night scene."

The "impressive" Cathedral doesn't fail to live up to its reputation and the Tudor building which houses the Commandery Civil War museum is said to be "splendid" in the guide.

Witley Court is also better received and is described as the "most venerable and romantic ruin in England".

Visitors are recommended to take a trip to the derelict stately home, which stands in newly-restored gardens originally designed by William Nesfield.

The adjacent church, however, is compared to a "music hall" as regular classical concerts are held there throughout the year.

Elsewhere in Worcestershire, Great Malvern is said to look like "one of the central Welsh spa towns with a mini version of Gloucester Cathedral, with lots of cedars, pines and monkey puzzle trees".

As the town - famous for its spa water, Morgan cars and public school, says the guide - is built on the side of the famous Malvern Hills, visitors with heavy bags are told to "watch out".

The Vale of Evesham, which includes the "quiet market town of Evesham" and Pershore, described as a "backwater town of graceful Georgian houses" are both recommended to be visited in the spring, when the fruit trees are in blossom.