This settlement has earned an enviable reputation for its impeccably clean Malvern water, which has been a favourite choice for numerous monarchs over the centuries, from Queen Elizabeth I to Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II.
Great Malvern Abbey
Dating back to the Norman period, Great Malvern Priory is known for its extraordinary stained glass windows, and benefited from successive refurbishments in the 19th century. One of the pioneers of its renovation was Sir George Gilbert Scott, a prominent Gothic Revival architect who helped safeguard many other famous British landmarks such as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and part of St Pancras Station.
The Winter Gardens
A beloved public park, the Winter Gardens has been an acclaimed concert venue for several decades, and is the site of the popular Malvern Splash pool leisure centre. The park also features the famous Malvern Theatre, which first opened in the 1880s and showcased many plays by the distinguished Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw.
The hills
If you're up for a little challenge, consider walking to Worcestershire Beacon, a 425m high hill offering outstanding panoramic views of the surrounding countryside of Worcestershire and Herefordshire.
The hills offer many miles of well-preserved paths, contain some of the oldest rocks in the country, and were a much-loved cycling and walking destination for one of Britain's most eminent composers, Edward Elgar. Consider visiting the Holy Well, which probably contains the world's oldest bottling plant, or enjoy some refreshing snacks and coffee at the historic St Ann's Well Café.
Local day trip ideas:
Learn about the history of the nearby city of Worcester's formidable porcelain industry at the Museum of Royal Worcester, and see the site of the Battle of Worcester, the final battle of the English Civil War. Another fantastic, family friendly attraction in the Malvern area is the Three Counties Showground, which organises numerous major events throughout the year, from the RHS Malvern Spring Festival to the Malvern Autumn Show.
Restaurants and hotels
For some delicious French food, try L'Amuse Bouche Restaurant, or choose the Mackenzie's Diner Restaurant for other superb American-themed dishes. If you're after some vibrant Thai flavours, dine at the Thai Rama Iv Restaurant, or consider The Inn at Welland for some mouthwatering British cuisine in a gastropub setting.
For an affordable venue in a charismatic atmosphere, book a stay at the Foley Arms Hotel or the Mount Pleasant Hotel. Other excellent Malvern hotels include the luxury Colwall Park Hotel, The Cottage in the Wood, and The Abbey Hotel in the centre of the town.
