Why visit Malvern?
The Malvern Hills
The handsome town of Malvern sits right on the edge of the Malvern Hills, a scenic stretch of uplands that straddles Worcestershire and Herefordshire (plus a smaller part in Gloucestershire).
Pitching up in this area of outstanding natural beauty means you’re right on the doorstep of hills like the Worcestershire Beacon, a challenging hike with exceptionally rewarding views over the local countryside.
For gentler strolls or picnics in the foothills, there are also the Malvern Commons – flatter, unenclosed areas where the local people continue to exercise their ancient right to graze livestock.
A historic spa town
Malvern blossomed in the 19th century, when well-off lords and ladies flocked here to enjoy the benefits of the town’s healing waters.
The Victorians left behind a lot of top-notch architecture in their bid to make the area an attractive destination. Little details like the ornate floral motifs at Malvern railway station and the landscaped gardens of Priory Park mean that heady Victorian mixture of elegance and optimism can still be felt today.
For a 21st-century ‘water cure’, head to The Malvern Spa Hotel, an upscale hydrotherapy centre on the northern edge of town.
Festivals and fab events
Malvern is also a hub for some of Central England’s most exciting festivals and events.
Just outside town, the Three Counties Showground hosts a huge number of concerts, festivals and exhibitions – whether you’re after dog shows, equine events, vintage vehicles or flea markets, you’re likely to find it here.
Got something in mind already? Use the calendar function on this page to search for campsites with availability near the Three Counties Showground.
Malvern’s top attractions
A day out in Malvern
Start off by getting to grips with the Great Malvern Priory, a gorgeous former Benedictine monastery with almost a thousand years of history to its name. Heritage buffs should stick around and head to the Malvern Museum of Local History, a well-presented collection of local curios that’s housed in the old priory gatehouse.
Malvern is also home to the Morgan Motor Company, a hand-built brand of British sports cars that have been made here since 1909. To see the result of over 100 years of craftsmanship close up, book onto a factory tour and wend your way through each of the company’s workshops.
After the clanks and clangs of the factory floor, relax and unwind a short distance to the south at Little Malvern Court and Gardens, a spectacular historic property overlooking the Severn Valley.
The best things to do within half an hour’s drive of Malvern
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Clive’s Fruit Farm, near Upton Upon Severn (15 minutes’ drive) – pick your own fruit, collect freshly-laid free-range eggs and take the kids off exploring on nature trails.
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Worcester city centre (20 minutes) – stroll around cathedral cloisters, sample locally-made Worcestershire sauce and admire Royal Worcester porcelain.
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The Croome Estate, near Pershore (25 minutes) – spend the day at this National Trust property and explore gardens designed by Capability Brown.
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The International Centre for Birds of Prey, Newent (30 minutes) – learn about raptor conservation with the pros, or take a crash course in the ancient art of falconry.
Delve deeper
Malvern and Edward Elgar
Classical composer Edward Elgar lived in the Worcestershire countryside for many years. Born just outside of Worcester, his best-known melodies are said to have been inspired by the sweeping vistas of the Malvern Hills.
Fancy getting some miles underfoot? Start exploring the 37-mile Elgar Route to discover some of the composer’s favourite haunts for yourself.
Mountain bike trails
This part of Central England is full of brilliant bike routes, but pedalling in the Malvern Hills is a particularly attractive option.
Within the area of outstanding natural beauty, there are three well-signposted circular mountain bike trails that take in natural landmarks like North Hill, Table Hill and St Ann's Well. All can easily be reached from Malvern town centre, so make sure to bring your bike along (or hire one in nearby Ledbury).
River Severn rambles
Malvern is just four miles from the banks of the Severn, making the surrounding area a great base for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding and fishing. Boat hire and leisure cruises are also available nearby in Upton Upon Severn if you fancy something more laidback.
Here's how
Ready to escape to a Malvern campsite? Now it’s time to start thinking about priorities…
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Want to snap scenic shots of the Malvern Hills without risking a flat battery? Opt for one of these Malvern pitches with electricity and keep your smartphone fully charged throughout your stay.
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Bring your dog along to one of these pet-friendly holiday parks near Malvern.
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Keep yourself fed and watered at a Malvern holiday park with a bar.
You can also narrow down your search by other features, themes and facilities using the tick-box filters on this page.
Still looking for your dream Malvern getaway? Broaden your search to all of Worcestershire, or try other scenic parts of Central England like Herefordshire and Gloucestershire.
