Three Choirs Way: 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.