4.8
(88)
944
hikers
Three Choirs Way: Malvern Hills
06:41
21.8km
770m
Hiking
The Three Choirs Way: Malvern Hills offers a challenging hike across varied terrain with spectacular scenery. You'll experience continuous ascents and descents along the ridge, providing expansive panoramic views eastward across the Severn Vale and westward towards Herefordshire. This difficult route covers 13.6 miles (21.8 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2530 feet (771 metres). Plan for an estimated duration of 6 hours and 40 minutes to complete this rewarding journey. As you hike, keep an eye out for historical landmarks like the Iron Age hill fort of Herefordshire Beacon, also known as British Camp. The path can be technical and muddy in places, especially after rain, adding to the adventure.
When planning your visit to the Malvern Hills section of the Three Choirs Way, be prepared for a demanding day on the trails. The route is known for its exposed sections, so check the weather forecast carefully before you set out. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, as facilities along the ridge are limited. Consider starting early in the day to allow ample time to complete the full distance before sunset. Parking is available at various points around the Malvern Hills, but specific trailhead access details should be confirmed beforehand.
This section of the Three Choirs Way is part of a longer, historic route connecting the cathedral cities of Gloucester, Hereford, and Worcester. The Malvern Hills themselves are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by ancient rocks and unique geology. The trail follows the undulating spine of these hills, offering a distinct experience compared to the surrounding lowlands. Its prominence in the landscape has made it a significant location for centuries, evident in the ancient earthworks you'll encounter.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
1.24 km
Gullet Quarry
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
2.05 km
Swinyard Hill
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
2.89 km
Clutter's Cave
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
3.16 km
Millennium Hill Stone Staircase, Malvern Hills
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
3.35 km
Millennium Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
3.77 km
Herefordshire Beacon (British Camp)
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
6.37 km
Pinnacle Hill
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
6.83 km
Jubilee Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
Jubilee Hill was named by the Malvern Hills Conservators in 2002 in honour of The Queen's Golden Jubilee. The Duke of York unveiled a plaque at the top of the hill, commemorating its new identity, in 2003
Tip by
7.33 km
Perseverance Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
This hill is a crossing place on the forbiddingly steep ridge of Malvern, for the road breaks across the hills in the narrow gap to the north of the hill, and railway tunnels have been dug beneath Perseverance Hill joining east and west.
Tip by
9.16 km
Summer Hill
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
9.70 km
Worcestershire Beacon Summit and Toposcope
Highlight • Natural Monument
On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Black Mountains plateau in South Wales. To the north west, the Shropshire Hills rise in gentle folds. The River Severn winds its way towards the sea to the east and south. A grand toposcope adorns the summit, enabling you to identify the surrounding landmarks.
Tip by
10.1 km
Stone Compass Rose, Malvern Hills
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
11.1 km
North Hill Summit
Highlight • Natural Monument
The eastern flank of the hill lies directly behind Worcester road in Great Malvern from where its summit is a brisk 15 – 20 minutes steep walk from the town centre via St Ann's road and Happy Valley. A path from the car park in North Malvern follows the lower contour of North Hill to Happy Valley and St. Ann's Well.
Although the flint route from North Wales to Wessex lay to the north of Malvern, there is some evidence to suggest that traders passed over the Malvern Hills. Parts of an arrowhead, scraper and flint flakes have been discovered between the North Hill and Table Hill. A 19th-century guide book describes both a collapsed burial mound on North Hill named the Giant's Grave and a tump on Table Hill. These tumuli may have been connected to the Dobunni settlement in Mathon.
A track that runs along North Hill was known as the "Pyx Path" and was used by the priest from Worcestershire when bringing Sacrament to the hermits that lived in Malvern in the 11th Century. It was also referred to as the "Pixie Path", as it was believed to be used by fairies. The Lodge spring can be found at the foot of North Hill, off Worcester road. The ornamental fountain has a small spout and basin that is similar in design to those at St Ann's Well.
Tip by
21.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
8.45 km
7.86 km
4.02 km
783 m
458 m
227 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
8.51 km
7.64 km
2.83 km
1.22 km
1.15 km
501 m
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Thursday 8 October
18°C
10°C
76 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 30.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of the Three Choirs Way section through the Malvern Hills?
This section of the Three Choirs Way is rated as difficult. It's known for its continuous ascents and descents along the ridge, which can be quite demanding. Hikers should expect varied terrain, including rocky and exposed ground in some areas, and potentially muddy conditions, especially in winter.
What kind of terrain and path conditions can I expect on this route?
The route features an 'up and down' nature with constant ascents and descents. You'll encounter open grassy contours with numerous paths and tracks. Some areas may have rocky, exposed ground. While parts of the broader Three Choirs Way are well-maintained, conditions underfoot on the Malvern Hills section can vary, potentially being technical and muddy, or dry and rutted.
What are the best viewpoints and landmarks along the trail?
The Malvern Hills offer breathtaking panoramic views. Notable points of interest include the Iron Age hill fort at Herefordshire Beacon (British Camp), Clutter's Cave, Millennium Hill, and Jubilee Hill. From the ridge, you can enjoy expansive vistas across the Severn Vale to the Cotswolds and westward towards Herefordshire and the Black Mountains of Wales.
Is the Three Choirs Way in the Malvern Hills dog-friendly?
Yes, the Malvern Hills are generally dog-friendly. However, given the presence of livestock in some areas and the popularity of the trails, it's advisable to keep dogs on a lead, especially near grazing animals or in busy sections. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow the Countryside Code.
What is the best time of year to hike this section of the Three Choirs Way?
Spring and autumn are often considered the best times to hike this route. In spring, you might see drifts of English bluebells, and the weather is generally milder. Autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but the exposed ridge can be hot. Winter can be challenging due to muddy conditions and potentially icy patches on higher ground.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in the Malvern Hills National Landscape?
No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required for individual hikers to access the public footpaths and open access land within the Malvern Hills National Landscape, including this section of the Three Choirs Way. However, specific events or organised groups might require prior arrangements.
How do I access the trailhead for this route, and is parking available?
The komoot tour for this section starts near Hollybush and ends near North Hill. Parking is available at various points around the Malvern Hills, including official car parks managed by the Malvern Hills Trust. It's recommended to check specific car park locations and potential fees in advance, especially during peak seasons. Public transport options to towns like Great Malvern are also available, from where you might connect to trailheads.
Does this section of the Three Choirs Way connect with other hiking trails?
Yes, the Three Choirs Way is a significant long-distance path that intersects with several other regional trails. This section of the route also passes through parts of the Worcestershire Way and the Geopark Way, offering opportunities to explore further afield.
Are there any amenities like cafes or pubs near the trail?
While the trail itself traverses natural landscapes, the Malvern Hills area has several towns and villages nearby, such as Great Malvern, where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. It's a good idea to plan your stops for refreshments before or after your hike, or at points where the trail passes closer to settlements.
What makes the Malvern Hills section of the Three Choirs Way particularly notable?
This section is a highlight of the entire 100-mile Three Choirs Way, offering some of the highest points and most stunning panoramic views. It's characterized by its dramatic 'up and down' ridge walking, showcasing diverse landscapes from open hills to woodlands. The route also features historical landmarks like Iron Age hill forts, adding cultural richness to the natural beauty.
Is this trail suitable for families with young children?
Given its 'difficult' rating, significant elevation gain (~771m), and continuous ascents and descents, this specific section of the Three Choirs Way is generally not recommended for families with young children or those seeking an easy walk. However, the broader Malvern Hills area offers numerous shorter, less strenuous, and more family-friendly walking routes.
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