The best walks and hikes around Malvern

Soaring views and stunning summits

Some of the best hiking trails in Malvern lift you out of the pretty town and lead you to the summits of North Hill, Worcestershire Beacon and Summer Hill. The Beacon is the county’s highest point, and rises to 1,394 feet (425 m) above the town, providing exceptional views in every direction. These hills rise abruptly but have a variety of trails, so you can take steep, direct routes or take your time and use the zig-zag trails which are far easier on the legs. 

Once up, you can bag several summits and easily choose to extend your adventure as much as you like. As you can access the hilltop hikes from Malvern’s many districts, it’s easy to create loop walks. Returning via either Malvern Common or Link Common is a lovely way to extend your hike too. 

The Malvern Hills rise like a spine from the valleys on either side and can be seen from considerable distance. Standing atop the Beacon or Millennium Hill further south is one of the best ways to truly appreciate their unique nature. 

History welling up

Malvern is a spa town and has been celebrated for its water for centuries. The Malvern Hills house rocks dating back almost 700 million years, creating an environment perfect for excellent spring water. If you like to link your adventures to local history, then the best hiking trails in Malvern for you swing by St Ann’s Well, one of the most important upwellings of Malvern Water. You’ll find the well building not far from the exquisite Abbey Gateway, the only building remaining from the original Benedictine Monastery and one of the most beautiful parts of the town’s – indeed region’s – architecture. 

Charles Darwin, Lord Tennyson and Florence Nightingale amongst other famous names visited the waters here for their therapeutic benefit, so you’re in good company. Gorgeous Georgian architecture side by side with 17th-century houses and timber-framed buildings combine to make a truly picturesque area.

Starting your walks in Great Malvern’s oldest streets before heading to St Ann’s Well and onwards, up into the vibrant hills, is a surefire way to embark on a fantastic hiking adventure.