Castlemorton: Rebels, Ruins, and Raves

Nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, Castlemorton is a quintessential English village where ancient history and modern rebellion collide. While it may look like a quiet pastoral escape, this parish has hosted everything from medieval sieges to the largest illegal rave in UK history.

5 Fascinating facts about Castlemorton

1. The Rave that changed The Law

In May 1992, the tranquil Castlemorton Common was transformed into a “mini-city” of 20,000 to 40,000 people. This week-long free festival became the most famous illegal rave in British history. The national outcry was so intense that it led directly to the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994, which famously gave police powers to stop gatherings featuring music “characterised by the emission of a succession of repetitive beats”.

2. A Fortress in the Fields: Castle Tump

Long before the “repetitive beats,” the village was defined by Norman might. Just south of the church lies Castle Tump, a 12th-century motte-and-bailey castle built by the Folliott family. Today, you can still see the impressive earthworks, including a 6-metre-high mound and medieval fishponds that are still visible in the landscape.

3. St Gregory’s: A Church With Scars

The Grade I listed St Gregory’s Church is a treasure trove for history buffs:

  • Norman Art: Look for the rare 12th-century Agnus Dei (Lamb of God) stone carving in the north doorway.
  • Civil War Siege: During the English Civil War, Royalist soldiers were besieged in the church tower by Parliamentarians. Legend says the attackers burned the church seating to smoke the soldiers out, forcing a desperate surrender.
  • The Three Fonts: The church oddly contains three different fonts, including a rare Saxon font originally from Deerhurst.

4. Rare Giants of the Common

The Common is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and for good reason. It is one of the last strongholds for the native black poplar, Britain’s most endangered native timber tree. In 2026, the Malvern Hills Trust continues intensive conservation work to preserve these “water-loving giants,” some of which are over 200 years old.

5. From Hollywood to Common Land

The village’s rugged beauty has not gone unnoticed by filmmakers. The 2015 World War II film Our Father used the common’s expansive, unenclosed landscape as a primary filming location, proving that Castlemorton’s unique character continues to inspire long after the ravers moved on.

Whether you’re visiting for a quiet walk among the ancient poplars or to stand where a cultural revolution once roared, Castlemorton remains one of the most fascinating corners of Worcestershire.

Plan your Swallowfields Retreat escape today.

  • 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…

    Learn more
  • 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!

    Learn more
  • 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.

    Learn more
  • 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

    Learn more