Celebrate The Rich Heritage This Autumn Around The Malverns

Every September, Heritage Open Days uncover and celebrate the hidden gems of England’s illustrious past. This year (11-19 September 2021) the theme is ‘Edible England’ and amongst town walks, opening up our stunning local churches and constant entertainment from Malvern Theatres, we are honouring the theme with farmers markets, vineyard tours and even a sneak-peak of the hop harvest.

To commence the festivity, the Malvern Civic Society is unveiling a plaque to celebrate Brays department store’s 100-year residency and hosting a talk with Mark Johnson OBE on the Worcestershire regiment.

Some of the beautiful and historic places of worship open for tours include the grade II listed Church of the Ascension, the 12^th Century Little Malvern Priory, Malvern Baptist Church, St James’, Holy Trinity, St Matthias and, of course, Great Malvern Priory. Be sure not to miss a chance to look around these breath-taking examples of the synthesis of architecture and faith.

Another beautiful local building is Council House, open for tours on the 12 September. Previously the home of James Manby Gully known for practising the watercure that Victorians flocked to Malvern for.

The 200-year old Stocks farm are open for a tour during the hop harvest; an unmissable opportunity to experience the world-renowned Worcestershire agricultural industry. If that takes your fancy, make sure not to miss the Frome vineyard tour on the 16^th for an in-depth guide to wine making from grape to bottle.

Kyre Park is stepping back in time to recreate events that would become the Wars of the Roses. You’ll find historical displays and demonstrations; medieval music and dance; as well as soldiers engaging in the Kyre skirmish.

Farmers markets at Priory Churchyard, Teme Valley and Crowcroft are an excellent chance to not only celebrate the wide and varied range of fresh produce grown in our local area, but to meet the farmers and planters who care tirelessly for the delicious food seen here.

Not only are guided walks around town occurring, but make sure to book yourself in for some of the walks detailing the history of Malvern. The Civic Society are hosting a tour of the impact Malvern made in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing (STEM) industries; while Dr Elizabeth Adlam is informing visitors of the trees that were planted on the promenade to welcome those that came to visit for the watercure.

If Malvern’s distinguished history has drawn you here, make sure you also check out the ancient hill forts and stunning views from our area of outstanding natural beauty.