Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop
Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop
4.0
(1)
12
runners
Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop
01:13
9.45km
370m
Running
Jog this difficult 5.9-mile loop over Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill for panoramic views and a challenging 1208-foot elevation gain.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Train Station
Get Directions
2.49 km
Earnslaw Quarry Lake
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
4.21 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
5.73 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
9.45 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.21 km
1.99 km
1.94 km
1.67 km
1.35 km
127 m
122 m
Surfaces
3.83 km
2.28 km
1.64 km
901 m
456 m
302 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Saturday 22 August
23°C
8°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to jog the Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop?
This challenging loop typically takes around 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete by jogging, covering a distance of approximately 9.45 kilometers. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
Is the Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop suitable for beginner joggers?
No, this loop is generally considered difficult for jogging. It features significant elevation changes, including steep ascents and descents, and requires a very good level of fitness. It's not recommended for beginner joggers.
What is the terrain like on this route?
The terrain is varied and demanding, featuring steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and gentler grassy sections. You'll encounter paved, unpaved, natural, and gravel surfaces. Some sections have a steep one-in-five gradient. Sure-footedness is essential due to the changing surfaces and inclines.
What can I see along the Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop?
The route offers breathtaking panoramic views. You'll pass the highest point in Worcestershire, the Worcestershire Beacon Summit and Toposcope, and the second-highest, North Hill Summit. On clear days, you can see across the Severn Valley, the Cotswolds, and even the Black Mountains. You'll also pass the Earnslaw Quarry Lake.
Where can I park for the Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop?
While specific parking spots aren't detailed, the loop typically starts from Great Malvern. There are various public car parks available in and around Great Malvern, which serve as good starting points for exploring the Malvern Hills.
Is the Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Malvern Hills trails. However, as this route is within the Malvern Hills National Landscape, it's important to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, especially near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons.
What is the best time of year to jog this route?
The best time to jog this route is during spring, summer, or autumn when the weather is generally milder and the views are clearer. On a clear day, the panoramic vistas are spectacular. Winter jogging is possible but requires appropriate gear for potentially icy or muddy conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Malvern Hills National Landscape?
No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the Malvern Hills National Landscape or to jog this specific loop. The area is managed by the Malvern Hills Conservators, one of the world's first organized conservation groups, ensuring public access.
Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the Worcestershire Beacon and North Hill Loop intersects with several other official trails. Significant portions of the route follow sections of the Three Choirs Way (Malvern Hills), Three Choirs Way (Worcester to Gloucester), Malvern Hills Long Mountain Bike Trail, Malvern Hills Medium Mountain Bike Trail, and the Geopark Way.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the trail for refreshments?
Yes, as the loop starts and ends near Great Malvern, a historic spa town, you'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the town center. These offer excellent options for refreshments before or after your jog.
What historical significance do the Malvern Hills hold?
The Malvern Hills are rich in history. They are composed of some of England's oldest rocks, approximately 600 million years old. The area features Iron Age hill forts, and the Worcestershire Beacon was historically used for beacon fires. Great Malvern itself was a popular Victorian spa town, known for its spring water, with relics of this era still visible.
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