It’s always a bit of a relief when Spring is finally in the air, and in The Malverns there’s so much that the whole family can enjoy about this lovely season. Spend time together whether it’s a multi – generational holiday, a family day out or quality time for grandchildren and grandparents – The Malverns has something to offer families of all shapes and sizes. Our town centres offer culture and history as well as entertainment for little ones and have plenty of places to stop to refuel. Across the district our attractions are suited to big groups and families and there is no end to the family friendly festivals and events that take place throughout the spring. So it’s time to shake off the winter cobwebs, get the family together and get outside in The Malverns – read on for our top family day out ideas…
Visit Our Historic Towns
Now that the weather is a little brighter take the day to visit one of our historic town centres: Malvern, Upton upon Severn and Tenbury Wells. Each town has a dedicated children’s town trail which leads around the centres with clues, information and questions. Great Malvern, a Victorian Spa Town located on the slopes of the Malvern Hills, offers quirky independent shopping, a multitude of excellent cafes, tea rooms and restaurants as well as loads to do for the young ones. There’s a fantastic play park in Priory Park that has been recently renovated and next door is leisure centre The Splash – which has also recently been though a refurb. Head to Malvern Link for the Morgan Experience centre as well as another great park with NBA approved basketball court.
Tenbury Wells is a must visit for foodie families, home to plenty of local independent foodie shops and even it’s own chocolate factory – that ought to keep everyone happy!
The pretty riverside town of Upton upon Seven boasts loads of history and plenty of historic buildings to admire. If everyone is up for it you can hire a boat for the day and pop down the river – or spend some time picking out a new favourite toy in Ginger & Pickles Traditional Toys. And, if the sun is out, it’s a lovely and quite accessible walk around the meadows by the river at Upton Ham.
Stroll Down Easy Walking Routes
While we’re known for the amazing, and sometimes quite challenging, walks along the magnificent Malvern Hills, there are plenty of routes around The Malverns that are suitable for those who may not be able to manage the more challenging climbs. See our blog on Gentle and Easier Access Walks in The Malverns. There is also the ability to hire a mobility scooter, or bring your own, to access some of the specially maintained paths along the Malvern Hills.
Take the Children to the Farm Park
Spring is the time for lambs and chicks and visiting these little animals is the perfect activity for multi-generational bonding. Home to the first reindeer born in Worcester, entry to the grounds to meet the alpacas, reindeer, goats and birds is free at the Cob House Country Park. The onsite dog-friendly Mayfly Café comes highly recommended serving stone -baked pizza and plenty of crowd pleasing café favourites. Experience the joy of an alpaca walk at Alpaca Meadows, a great experience for all ages and again there is a lovely café onsite for post walk tea and cake. Top Barn Farm Park is also free to walk round and see the array of animals and they have recently installed a 9 hole crazy golf course, sure to be the source of family fun – and competitiveness!
Explore Houses and Gardens in Bloom
Our historic houses and gardens will be blooming wonderfully this Spring and make a perfect day out – especially as they can accommodate a large group. Little ones will delight in the themed gardens at Ralph Court Gardens and there’s endless entertainment at Eastnor Castle. The kids can experience the tree top walkway and the hugely popular Knights Maze and adults can peek at the lavishly decorated state rooms inside the castle.
Head to Croome National Trust to experience the impeccably landscaped Capability Brown gardens coming to life, see the spooky ruins at Witley Court English Heritage, have a rare chance to see the incredible Art’s and Crafts movement interior of Madresfield Court and see the perfectly crafted Picton Gardens in spring glory.
Where To Stay – Suitable for Families and Big Groups
After all that exploring, its important everyone is accommodated comfortably. There are loads of accommodation options across The Malverns that can house families and large groups.
Try the Scandinavian style lodges at Pitlands Farm Holidays, with eight self-catering holiday properties set in 25 acres of orchards and gardens in the picturesque Teme Valley.
For more luxurious surroundings, if your trip is for a special occasion, try the Hillhouse at The Eades. This large country house sleeps up to 24, with 16 as standard, and is the ideal place to gather together in comfort.
Hotels such as The Abbey Hotel in Great Malvern have flexible family rooms that can accommodate up to 4 people and country house hotel Course Lawn has large rooms with the option for pet friendly and more accessible ground floor rooms.
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