Malverns Tourist Information and Travel Guide

The Malverns and Malvern Hills

The Malvern Hills are one of the most distinctive natural features in Great Britain, as well as being the source of the water that the Queen drinks.

Consisting of a range of hills in the English counties of Worcestershire, Herefordshire and a small area of northern Gloucestershire. They have been designated by the Countryside Agency as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Malvern Hills are a famous beauty spot, with scenic views over both Herefordshire and Worcestershire. The Hills run north/south for about 13 km (nine miles), in between Great Malvern and the village of Colwall, and overlook the River Severn valley to the East, with the Cotswolds beyond. The highest point of the hills is the Worcestershire Beacon at 425 metres (1395 feet) (OS Grid reference SO768452). The hills are famous for their natural mineral springs and wells, and were responsible for the development of Great Malvern as a spa in the early 19th century.

There are two passes through the hills, the Wyche cutting (Wyche means salt) and the A449 road just north of Herefordshire Beacon. The Herefordshire Beacon is also known as the British Camp, as the remains of an iron age hill fort can be found at the summit.

The hills were a great inspiration for the truly English composer, Sir Edward Elgar. His many hobbies included golf and cycling and whilst living in Herefordshire composed some of his most inspirational music. A statue is planned to honour his memory and you can follow the Elgar Route to experience what he enjoyed.

For more information about the see - Malvern Hills.

The Malverns and Malvern Hills in the
County of Herefordshire