Malvern

Be Inspired...

Your first, far-off view of 'The Malverns' tells you that you are approaching an area with a difference - unusual and intriguing. They are the centre piece of a wonderful region stretching from lowland, riverside Upton upon Severn to Malvern itself, and up the River Teme's winding course through northwest Worcestershire's hills to delightful Tenbury Wells.

Perhaps it was the pure water of the Malvern Hills springs that first attracted the iron-age builders of The British Camp (Herefordshire Beacon), and then, hundreds of years later, the founders of Malvern's two medieval priories. Certainly it was those waters that made Malvern a 19th Century spa, with the elegance to become a place of culture, attracting people like Sir Edward Elgar and Bernard Shaw. From the hills you will see some of England's grandest views, eastwards towards the Cotswolds, northwards to Shropshire and westward to the misty mountains of Wales.

Within Malvern itself there is plenty to do below are some ideas.

St Ann's Well The well waters of Malvern are many - but often well-concealed. St Ann's Well (where you can enjoy a peaceful break with delicious refreshments) and Holy Well, are tucked away in valleys. But in and around the Malverns are many more springs, some well restored like the Beauchamp Spout in Cowleigh Road or the well known fountain, Malvhina, at Belle Vue Island and others more obscure. Finding them makes an interesting treasure hunt.

Great Malvern Priory How about a visit to Great Malvern Priory? It is a cathedral-sized wonder of English medieval architecture, with many treasures to reveal; massive Norman pillars, a huge famous east window, misericord seats carved with lively and entertaining scenes, tiles in many designs, manufactured by the monks.

Malvern Theatres and Priory Park Music and theatre are Malvern traditions. You will find them alive and well in the Malvern Theatres Complex which overlooks Priory Park. This Edwardian building has recently been transformed into one of Britain's most enjoyed and popular provincial cultural centres. The theatre's West End style and atmosphere helps the management attract big names and top-class drama, ballet and opera companies throughout the year. As for music, the Forum Theatre's superb acoustics and seating enhance the quality of its programmes. And the cinema now has frequent showings of less-available films from all over the world, as well as current releases.

The Abbey Gateway Malvern's other medieval jewel is the Abbey Gateway, which is home to Malvern's Museum. It is small but filled with exhibits on every aspect of Malvern's history and development; geology, intriguing insights into the 19th Century, era of the water cure and items from Malvern's famous defence research establishment, where historic wartime radar was developed.

Elgar Route For a tour with a purpose, around some of Malvern's loveliest parts, follow the Elgar Route, to places loved by Edward Elgar. The route is well marked and a leaflet from any of the districts Tourist Information Centres adds to your enjoyment.

Malvern is an unconventional shopping centre, thanks to its hillside setting. There are bookshops - both new and secondhand for you to browse in. There are antique dealers, as well as auctions from time to time, not to mention quality furniture, fashion and food. The Malvern lifestyle attracts artists and craftspeople, so you will find some delightful works on show and in shops and galleries. But the best way to appreciate what Malvern has to offer is to visit and explore - there is much to find.