Holiday rentals in Malvern Hills District

Dividing the counties of Worcestershire and Herefordshire, the beautiful Malvern Hills region promises stunning landscapes, traditional towns, and a rich musical and literary heritage. The dramatic scenery has inspired creatives for centuries, including an acclaimed English composer who was born here. Today, a thriving creative scene offers music and arts festivals throughout the year, including the Ledbury Poetry Festival.

The Malvern Hills have been inhabited for millennia, thanks to the purity and availability of the water in the area. The region rose to prominence with the popularity of “water cures” in Edwardian and Victorian times. In their heyday, the Malvern Hills were a national healing and wellness destination. Today, the natural spring water of the area is still known for its purity, and there are several luxury spas offering restorative treatments. The hills also offer scenic walking routes — gentle strolls and exhilarating climbs alike.

Photographers and artists flock here at various times of year to capture the mist that hangs in the valleys and the stunning sunsets over the rolling Herefordshire countryside.

The Malvern Hills are known for typical British weather, with warm summers and cold, wet winters. If you’re planning to make the most of the many walking routes in the area, you’re better off planning your visit for the spring and summer months. Visit in May for the Royal Horticultural Society’s Malvern Spring Festival, a celebration of the wildlife, flowers, and crafts of the local region. In June, the Royal Three Counties Show is a large festival of agricultural and farming heritage with food fairs, farming displays, and entertainment for all ages. In mid-July, Malvern Hills hosts the UK’s biggest free blues festival in Upton, with performances across various venues.

Taking to the hills in colder months requires sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing, but paying a visit to a local pub for a hearty lunch is a popular way to warm up.

Paragliding

The Malvern Hills attract hang gliders and paragliders from across the country. For incredible thrills and views across the hills, experienced paragliders can take off from Pinnacle Hill. If you’re new to the sport, be sure to book with a qualified pilot for a tandem flight. If you’d prefer to watch, there are plenty of cafes and bars at street level with commanding vantage points.

End to End Walk

This spectacular 9.3-mile trail across the top of the Malvern Ridge includes the chain’s main summits. Starting from Chase End and finishing in North Hill, the route has some particularly challenging sections, making it unsuitable for novice hikers. Be sure to arrange transport to the start or finish of this linear route, and don’t forget to pack your sandwiches.

Witley Court

Once a magnificent stately home and royal party destination, Witley Court was destroyed by fire in 1937. The remaining ruins make for a unique day of exploration. The dramatic architecture is teeming with memories of the former residents, while the immaculate gardens and enormous fountains make a lasting impression. The estate offers a wilderness play area, a shop with an array of heritage-inspired food and drink, and the opportunity to spot great crested grebes.