The Malverns
The Malverns are famous for the dramatic ridge of hills that are
the predominant feature of the South Worcesteshire landscape and
are formed from some of the oldest rocks in the World (650 million
years old igneous rocks).
The Malvern Hills form a striking
landmark rising above the flat Severn Plain. The name 'Malvern' is
derived from the Celtic term for 'bare hill', which tells you
something about the geology of the 9 mile range. Walks to the
ridge can be as gentle or strenuous as you like, the views are well
worth the effort though, it has been claimed that you can see 15
counties from the summit of Worcestershire Beacon. The Malverns are
made up of a number of Parishes located around the
Malvern Hills and include Great Malvern, Malvern Link, West
Malvern, Malvern Wells and Little Malvern.
The hill's beauty inspired Sir Edward Elgar to compose 'Pomp and
Circumstance' (Land of Hope and Glory). Now if the area can
inspire a man to write such a tune, imagine what the scenery is
like!
It is not just Sir Edward Elgar that has been inspired by the
untamed beauty of the magnificent slopes. Many famous writers
and musicians have been motivated by the scenic beauty and
atmosphere provided by the Malvern Hills. Famous writers
include C.S Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkein, William Langdon and W.H. Auden.
Malvern is also home to the English Symphony Orchestra.
Malvern is also famous for its water. Hydrotherapy treatment
started in Malvern in the late 18th Century and became fashionable
when the likes of Queen Victoria and the poet Tennyson took to the
waters. Today the water is known as Queen Elizabeth II's
favourite.
Much of Malverns ornate architecture dates from the Victorian
period. Nowadays visitors from all over the world still come
to enjoy the spectacular views and pleasant walks and to take the
waters that run freely from the various springs dotted around the
hills.
There is so much more to Malvern than just the hills, water and
Elgar. Malvern's town centre is dominated by the ancient Priory
with its fabulous collection of medieval tiles. The Morgan
Sports car is still built by hand here and tours can be organised
for groups.
Malvern can also boast a first class theatre that stages many
West End productions before they reach the West End!
Many famous inventions and products have originated from
Malvern, a selection of them are on display in Malvern Museum which
charts the towns many achievements, for example did you know
scientists based in Malvern developed RADAR, LCD and thermal
imaging?
The Autumn in Malvern Festival is a renowned series of artistic
events held annually in the surroundings of the glorious Malvern
Hills. Some of the most prestigious musicians, poets, writers, film
makers and other artists perform during October every year. Please
visit www.malvernfestival.co.uk
Markets
Malvern Country
Market
Location: Lyttleton Rooms,
Church Street, Great Malvern
Days: Friday
Times: 9.00am – 11.00am
Closed for two or three weeks after Christmas
Website: www.country-markets.co.uk
Malvern Farmers'
Market
Location: Abbey Road,
Malvern
Dates: 3rd Saturday each month
Times: 9am – 2pm
For further information on any of the Worcestershire Farmers'
Markets contact:
Tel: 07795 656148 / 07795 656149
Website: www.wfmg.co.uk
Malvern Tourist Information
Centre
21 Church Street
Malvern
WR14 2AA
Telephone: +44 (0)1684 892289
Fax: +44 (0) 1684 892872
E-mail: malvern.tic@malvernhills.gov.uk
Website: www.visitthemalverns.org
Opening Times:
Daily 10am – 5pm (Close at 4pm on Sundays November – March
only)
Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day.
