Malvern Hills AONB

The Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) stretches for 105 square kilometres across the counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. This is one of a family of 40 such nationally protected areas in England and Wales including the Cotswolds, Shropshire Hills and Wye Valley. A Partnership of national and local bodies exists to help to coordinate activities in the area and to keep it special.

Undoubtedly the most dominant landscape features in the area are the Malvern Hills themselves. These hills rising from the plains below, contain the relicts of varied past cultures and are composed of some of the oldest rocks in England - the product of volcanic activity in the depths of the earth over 600 million years ago.  The hills are managed by the Malvern Hills Conservators, a body which has its own impressive heritage. The Conservators are the second oldest conservation organisation in the country, having been created by their own Act of Parliament in 1884.

The ancient hills and the commons to the east have been grazed for centuries, a practice which has helped to keep the views clear for all to enjoy. Grazing continues to be an important practice in the area and visitors are asked to keep their dogs under control at all times. This is not just for the protection of farm animals but also for the special birds and reptiles who depend on this area and who benefit from the grazing regime.

To the north and west of the main ridge of the Malvern Hills you will find  landscapes of wooded hills, timbered farmlands and forest small holdings. The landscapes here are often of a smaller scale and have a more organic feel than those to the east.  Hedgerows and hedgerow trees are characteristic features.

The designation of the Malvern Hills as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty signifies that the natural beauty of the area - including its landscape, wildlife, geology and cultural heritage - is of national importance and that it is in the nation’s interest to conserve it. If visiting the area you can do your bit to help to keep it special too.

Thanks to the Victorians this part of the country is blessed with train stations - they can be found in Malvern, Ledbury and Colwall - so why not travel to the area by train? Once here you can make use of the Hills Hopper or similar bus services that travel around the AONB and make a great vantage point from which to admire the countryside. By leaving the car at home you’ll be helping to maintain the tranquillity of this special place.

A network of paths, tracks and quiet roads together with areas of open access exist in the area and perhaps the best way to explore is on foot, by bicycle or on horseback? Cycling and walking guides are available from local outlets. Please behave responsibly and follow the Countryside Code. The Malvern Walking Festival (June 8-11 2007) also offers a range of guided walks where you can learn more about the special culture, landscapes and wildlife of the area. 

For a Hills Hooper timetable and for more information about the AONB visit www.malvernhillsaonb.org.uk

For information on the Malvern Walking Festival visit http://www.malvern-hills.info