The Malvern Hills rise sharply from the Worcestershire plain, a nine-mile ridge of ancient pre-Cambrian rock that feels far wilder than its gentle height (the highest point, Worcestershire Beacon, is just 425 metres) might suggest. The walking is excellent — the ridge path runs the full length with panoramic views in every direction, from the Cotswolds to the Black Mountains of Wales.
The hills are closely associated with Edward Elgar, who grew up in the area and whose music is said to capture the landscape's character. The Elgar Birthplace Museum at Lower Broadheath is worth a visit. The town of Great Malvern, nestled at the base of the hills, is an attractive Victorian spa town built around its famous spring water — the wells are still public and locals still fill their bottles.
The Malvern Hills are an easy day trip from Birmingham or Worcester and make a refreshing contrast to the Midlands' urban sprawl. The hills are best in spring, when the gorse blooms yellow, or on a clear autumn day when the views stretch for miles.