Malvern has enough attractions with the
Malvern hills, the sheer beauty of the countryside, interesting local history
and events for the whole family. The star attraction for many is the almost
living presence of Elgar. Here you can share the inspirations which
produced some of the finest English music of all times.
Steep and hilly Malvern, Worcestershire, lies in an area of great natural beauty. The famed Malvern hills, riddled with walks and a launching pad for hang-gliders, provide a well-loved summer playground for outdoor enthusiasts .
The distinctive Malvern's dominate the relatively flat landscape for miles around so don't let mention of steep hills be an instant turn-off. Delightful market towns and hamlets are within easy reach and harbour idyllic, traditional English pubs; a good excuse for a relaxing lunch of homemade food. Malvern Showground is frequent host to agricultural, antique and craft fairs plus other attractions. Many big names in entertainment relish the opportunity to tread the boards in Malvern's thriving and intimate theatre. History buffs have plenty to get their teeth into from the Iron Age fort on the Malvern's to the atmospheric ancient Abbey, with what little remains of its surrounding monastic buildings. There are also many grand edifices from the prolific building expansion of the late 18th and19th centuries, some of which were later converted for use as boarding schools or, more recently, into apartments. Not least is the surrounding rolling, pastoral countryside which still epitomises in many minds the essence of England. No wonder Elgar was so inspired!
As if that is not enough to attract summer visitors, it also has Elgar. Sir Edward Elgar (1857-1934) was born in Broadheath, around 3 miles from Worcester. Music was part of his life from the start, his father had a music shop and tuned pianos. He taught himself to play a wide variety of instruments and as a composer, he remained largely self-taught. Full details of Elgar's life and music, are found in the pages of the Elgar Society.
Elgar has a long association with Malvern, he lived and taught music there. Inspired by the beauty of the surroundings and his love for Caroline Alice Roberts, a rather special pupil who became his wife in 1889, he composed Salut d'Amour, one of the really great pieces of romantic music. Inspired too by those around him, he composed the Enigma Variations (Variations on an Original Theme), a musical pen portrait of 14 friends and a dog! Perhaps the best known and best loved piece is his Pomp and Circumstance incorporating Land of Hope and Glory. Where would 'Last night of Proms' be without it?
Special breaks are often available so it pays to check but it is easy enough to organise your own, including a walking tour of Malvern to visit places associated with Elgar. Malvern is hilly and it always seems surprising that so many people decide to retire there. Expect plenty of ups and downs but it is worth the small effort to see the magnificent 11th century Priory church and the house where Elgar once lived and the school where he taught. If in doubt, reception at any of the hotels is well versed in Elgar and is certain help out with directions.
Check out these breaks and make your own arrangements directly.
Worth visiting also is Elgar's birthplace which is now a museum. It is located in Broadheath, on the outskirts of Worcester and just a short drive from Malvern. The museum is open daily 11am - 5pm.
For further information and events check out Malvern Hills Tourism
Elgar apart, Malvern is well worth a visit, summer or winter.
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