Worcestershire: Home to the Malvern Hills (mini-Himalayas!)
Worcestershire is one of the many land-locked counties in the West Midlands, known mostly for being home to the Malvern Hills, which are also known as the ‘mini-Himalayas’, and often used as training for climbers attempting Mount Everest.
This friendly county is also home to the Tudor city of Worcester and stunning countryside villages.
Always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe.
The Malvern Hills
These stretch across Worcestershire’s western edge, rising above the landscape. The paths are well-marked, to give ambitious walkers views across to Herefordshire and the Welsh mountains on a clear day.
Although some areas are easy strolls, there are steeper climbs to Worcestershire Beacon, which is the highest point.
The Vale of Evesham
This is ‘blossom country’, where each spring, the area bursts to life with apple, pear and plum orchards.
You can walk the Blossom Trail, and even visit Pershore Plum Festival, which celebrates the fruit harvest, with local food stalls.
Rich in Canals and Rivers
As well as being home to the River Severn, Worcestershire (like all the Midland counties) has a rich network of canals, due to most goods being transported by boat during the Industrial Revolution.
Today, you can amble the towpaths, passing wild meadows, old mills and stone bridges. The Droitwich Canals connect to the River Severn, with historic locks, and waterside pubs for refreshments.
Read our post on how to protect England’s historic canals.
(was) Home to England’s Second Oldest Pear Tree
Worcestershire used to lay claim to being home to England’s second-oldest pear tree. Unfortunately it has since been felled, for the disastrous HS2 high-speed rail project (which Barn Owl Trust says is a ‘very expensive way of killing owls’).
Environmental campaigners would prefer to see the money spent instead on updating rolling stock, and better rural public transport.
The Cathedral City of Worcester
Worcester is a charming blend of Tudor buildings and riverside views. The mighty cathedral overlooks the River Severn (England’s longest) where you can view timber-framed buildings and river views, from a 1000-year old stone building.
If you have the energy to climb the 235 steps to the top! If not, then enjoy some of England’s most magnificent stained glass, with pieces dating from the 14th century to Victorian times.
Nearby market towns are Pershore (known for its summer plums), Droitwich Spa (which sits on ancient salt springs) and Tenbury Wells (which holds a yearly apple and cider festival).
The Village Where The Archers is Set?
It’s rumoured that the long-radio show The Archers is based on a village in Warwickshire. Can you guess which one? Billy Connolly once suggested that we should replace the National Anthem with the theme tune!
One of the actors from The Archers, is the man who says ‘Mind the Gap’ on the London Underground!
Home to Lots of Vegan Farm Sanctuaries
Worcestershire is home to many farm sanctuaries, where abused and neglected creatures live out their lives in peace, cared for by loving volunteers. All struggle financially, so support them by either setting up a giving account (anonymous if preferred) at Charities Aid Foundation.
Or sign up at easyfundraising (nominate your chosen sanctuary, then anytime you buy from participating shops or services, they donate a portion of profits, at no cost to you (loyalty points are not affected):
- Baah-land has over 100 happy residents, and is run on a shoestring budget, by dedicated volunteers.
- The Farm Animal Sanctuary does wonderful work. One pig resident was found by workers on the M42, likely fallen off a trailer, on route to an illegal slaughterhouse.
- Goodheart Sanctuaries is home to over 300 animals in 92 acres of rolling countryside. And two large pools, for rescued waterfowl.
- Hillfields Animal Sanctuary offers refuge for 300 animals, who live out their days free from fear, neglect or cruelty.
Vegan Cooking Classes (near Malvern Hills)
Our Lizzy offers popular vegan cooking classes, which includes bed-and-breakfast accommodation (so you can walk off your dinner, after cooking it!) Prices include tuition, ingredients and a recipe booklet.
There are day courses for traditional or international cuisine, plus courses to make plant-based bread, desserts, picnic lunches and even one on cooking with wild garlic.
Try Vegan Worcestershire Sauce!
Although Worcestershire sauce (the tangy condiment used for tomato juice and vegan shepherd’s pie) was indeed born here, today the main brands are (not local) and made with anchovies (fish). Instead look out for plant-based local brands like Bonsan or Biona.
Or make your own (lasts a few weeks in the fridge). Sterilise bottles in the dishwasher (hottest cycle) or wash and rinse bottles, then boil for 10 minutes, remove with tongs and air-dry on a clean surface.
