Malvern Hills

Dramatic hills offering stunning views across three counties, the Malvern Hills are perfect for hiking and are steeped in history and legend including Arthurian connections. The market town of Great Malvern at their base offers Victorian charm and cultural attractions.

Things to do

• Hike the Malvern Hills Ridge — Walk the dramatic ridge path from North Hill to End Hill, taking in views across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, and Herefordshire on clear days.
• Visit Great Malvern Priory — Explore this magnificent Victorian-era priory church with stunning stained glass windows and a fascinating 900-year history.
• Tour Malvern Theatre — Catch a performance or take a backstage tour at this historic Edwardian theatre that has hosted major premieres including works by Elgar.
• Walk to Beacon Hill — Climb to the summit of Beacon Hill for panoramic views and visit the Iron Age hillfort remains at the top.
• Explore Malvern Water Heritage — Learn about the Victorian spa water industry at visitor attractions and sample the famous Malvern Spring Water that has been bottled here since the 1600s.
• Visit Elgar Birthplace Museum — Tour the cottage where composer Edward Elgar was born and discover artifacts from his life and musical career.

Food to try

• Malvern Spring Water — Sample or purchase bottles of the naturally filtered spring water that has been a prized commodity since Victorian times, available at local shops and restaurants.
• Local Worcestershire Produce — Seek out dishes featuring Worcestershire apples, pears, and the famous Worcestershire sauce in local restaurants and farm shops throughout Great Malvern.
• Traditional Afternoon Tea — Experience Victorian-style afternoon tea at one of Great Malvern's established hotels or cafés, reflecting the town's historic spa culture.
• Herefordshire Beef and Cider — Try local beef dishes prepared with regional cider, celebrating the agricultural heritage of the surrounding countryside.

Local customs & good to know

• Plan for Weather Changes — The hills are exposed and weather can change rapidly, so bring waterproof layers and appropriate footwear even on seemingly sunny days.
• Respect Hill Access — Most of the Malvern Hills are accessible via public footpaths and common land, but stay on marked trails and respect private property boundaries.
• Experience Victorian Heritage — Great Malvern's architecture and attractions reflect its 19th-century heyday as a fashionable spa town, so take time to appreciate the period buildings and refined atmosphere.