7 Things to See and Do in Malvern and the Malvern Hills
Country pubs, museums and tranquil gardens – there’s so much more to Malvern than just its famous hills.
This Worcestershire town, an easy escape from Birmingham, is a wonderful place to visit. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, a day of exploring or a fun-filled trip with the kids, there’s an abundance of things to do in Malvern.
Malvern Hills & the Worcestershire Beacon
Most visitors to this part of the country will be taking in the scenic Malvern Hills, but it can be difficult to know which route to take. We’d wholeheartedly recommend the Worcestershire Beacon, a circular walk that takes up to the highest peak. Moderately challenging, this three-hour walk – with fantastic views of Herefordshire and the Black Mountains along the route – starts on the western side of the hills.
Malvern is home to some excellent country pubs, with plenty of choice on all sides of the hills. No matter which route you opt to take, there are some fantastic pub pit stops with sublime views.
1. Little Malvern Court & Gardens
Botanical Garden
For an hour or two of peace and quiet, Little Malvern Court and Gardens should provide the tranquillity you’re after. Nestled on the lower slopes of the Malvern Hills, this prior’s hall, church and picturesque garden date back to the 15th century. It is a fantastic spot to spend a spring or summer’s afternoon, especially when the flowers in the gardens are in full bloom. As well as refreshments, the quaint courtyard tea room offers fantastic views across the hills.
2. Malvern Museum of Local History
Museum
History buffs should head to Malvern Museum, which can be found within the iconic gatehouse that was once the gateway to the Benedictine Priory of Great Malvern . Local history artefacts and art pieces are packed into this relatively small space, which makes it feel larger on the inside than it looks from the outside. Whether you’re into medieval history, the Victorian era or simply want to delve into this town’s past, Malvern Museum covers it all.
3. Great Malvern Priory
Church
Beyond the gatehouse stands Great Malvern Priory. Now a parish church, it was once a Benedictine monastery. Dating back to the 11th century, it boasts 15th-century features including its floor and tiles, as well as England’s largest selection of stained glass from that era. Tthe Grade I-listed priory welcomes visitors to explore the church throughout the week, while a congregation of about 200 people gathers here each Sunday for worship.
4. Ice Quest
Laser Tag
You’re never too old to be a big kid! Ice Quest is Malvern’s one-stop entertainment centre, featuring ice skating, laser quest and escape rooms – perfect for keeping the kids entertained on a rainy day. Large group packages are available whether you want to partake in one or all three of the activities, providing fantastic value for large families and parties.
5. Old Court Nurseries & Picton Garden
Botanical Garden
At Old Court Nurseries and the Picton Garden, a family-run business since 1906, visitors can find as many as 400 different varieties of Michaelmas daisies in the colourful gardens. Many of the varieties you can see are available to purchase either by mail order or directly from the nursery here, so you can plant a memory of Malvern at home in your garden.
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
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