6 Things To See & Do In And Around Malvern

Malvern is perhaps best known for being a spa town and for the Malvern Hills, a beautiful range in Worcestershire that dominates the skyline. The Malvern Hills are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and if you take a walk there, it’s easy to see why.

As well as hill walks with expansive views, Worcestershire is packed full of charming rural finds, from quaint tea shops and country parks, to beautiful architecture.

Swallowfields Glamping area landscapes
beautiful scenery across Castlemorton Common

1. Spectacular Views Without Too Much Effort

We think the walk up to British Camp and back is a classic British hill walk. It’s a little strenuous in places, but the views are well worth it! If you love a walk with a view, you’ll find that this is a highly rewarding walk and once you reach the Hereford Beacon you’ll be rewarded with the best possible views as this marks the highest point of the Malvern Hills.

The tops of the large grassy hills are a great place to stop for a picnic and the walk is very family friendly too. You’ll find the paths here clear and easy to follow, making navigation a cinch and once back at the start point at British Camp carpark, you’ll find it’s a great place to reward yourself with a well-deserved ice cream and refreshments.

See our preferred Malvern Hills walking route here.

Walking in the Malvern Hillswalking on the Malvern Hills

2. Observe A Piece of British History

History buffs will love seeing clear evidence of the ancient Bronze Age hillfort which accounts for the distinctive tiered shapes dug into the Malvern hills. This mighty hillfort is without a doubt one of the most spectacular in Britain, and even if history isn’t your thing, it makes for an impressive site.

Numerous finds from the Neolithic and early Bronze age have been found here and there is a rich history associated with not just British Camp, but at sites throughout the Malvern hills including Clutter’s Cave and Midsummer Hill to name but a few.

3. Enjoy Charming Victorian Architecture

Head into the town of Great Malvern which lies at the foot of the Malvern Hills. It’s a designated conservation area thanks to the special architectural and historic interest in the area.

The town centre is very compact, making it ideal for exploring on foot and it’s also very pretty, full of Victorian architecture with lots of lovely places to shop or grab a bite to eat or drink.

4. Get Crafty at The Hop Pocket

The Hop Pocket is a rural shopping village packed full of independent retailers selling a vast selection of beautiful artisan goodies. You’ll also find a superb farm shop, craft shop, a garden centre and the Hop Pocket Wine Company shop is well worth a visit.

For families, there is plenty to keep the kids entertained, including climbing frames and slides set within a large fenced grass area for running around and doing what kids do best!

Find out more about The Hop Pocket.

Alpacas at Cob BarnAlpacas at Cob Barn

5. Family Fun at Cob House Country Park

Cob House Country Park makes for a great family day out where you’ll find beautiful parkland and lakes to explore.  For kids, there’s a parkland trail and wildlife pond and they’ll love feeding the animals which include Reindeer and Alpacas.

Refreshments are available at the Mayfly Cafe which includes delicious locally made ice cream and the afternoon tea is pretty good too.

Be sure to check out the Cob House Country Park website as they often have special events on.

Worcestershire Countryside
Worcestershire countryside

6. Pick Up Delicious Produce at The Worcestershire Farmers Market

Support the local economy and pick up some delicious treats from the Farmers Market, where local growers sell direct to the public.

You’ll find everything from beautiful plants to tasty produce, though do check the farmers market calendar first as the date of the market varies month by month.

  • WELLBEING BREAKS

    Malvern has long been associated with healthy living, ever since it originated as a spa town. Many benefits have been linked to its spring water, as well as people. Charles Darwin, Queen Victoria and Florence Nightingale are all said to have enjoyed its therapeutic qualities.

    It’s a legacy that’s lived right on to this day and one we wholeheartedly embrace. Not only are we fortunate to be nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, we live and breathe nature and its many benefits.

    There’s no pounding the treadmill at Swallowfields, just beautiful walks with wonderful vistas provided by nature. Come visit our retreat and enhance your wellbeing in the best way for you, from reading a book and taking naps in your own hammock to cooking on a campfire and enjoying spa treatments. Our world awaits you…

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  • FAMILY BREAKS

    Nothing beats a great family break! When you laugh so much your sides hurt and enjoy yourself so much, you’re thinking, talking (and giggling) about it for many weeks to come.

    Swallowfields is geared up for families. You’ll find that all of our safari lodges, which easily sleep six people, are located on a child-friendly site. There are also plenty of things for the whole family to see and do too.

    Take a wander in our lovely wildflower meadow, toast marshmallows on the camp fire, explore the Malvern Hills and beyond and check out our Adventure Castle and Nature Hideout! You can even bring the dog too!

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  • ACTIVITY BREAKS

    You just bring yourself, we’ll point you in the direction of the action! And there’s lots of it!

    Maybe you want to challenge yourself and try something different, like paddleboarding or kayaking, or perhaps you want to practice your favourite hobby, such as mountain biking or hiking?

    There are lots of things to do all around Swallowfields and, when you’re back at your lodge, there’s a relaxing hot tub waiting for you.

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  • DOG FRIENDLY BREAKS

    We’re animal-lovers here at Swallowfields and we understand that your dog is a big part of your family, so why leave them behind?

    They’ll be right at home in our pet-friendly safari lodges. There’s oodles of room for them, their bed, bowls and fave toy! All that we ask, is that you keep them on a lead when walking around on-site and don’t leave them unattended.

    For just £25 per dog, per stay*, you can make sure the entire family get their hands (and paws) on our wonderful glamping experience! Oh, and don’t forget to ask us about our complimentary doggie essentials pack too!

    * Maximum of two dogs per lodge

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