Elgar Route

Introduction

Sir Edward Elgar is renowned as England’s greatest composer, but not many people know the magnificent landscape around The Malverns inspired so much of his music.

Whether you’re a classical music fan or just like touring spectacular scenery and learning about iconic heritage, the Elgar Route will allow you to tour some of England’s finest land – the Land of Hope and Glory.

ELGAR ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS

The Elgar Route takes in a symphony of sights, including Elgar’s favourite haunts and the amazing scenery which inspired so much of his music, including the following locations.

• The Firs: Elgar’s Birthplace in Lower Broadheath
• The Victorian town of Great Malvern with Malvern Theatres (formerly the Winter Gardens), Great Malvern Priory (also, check out the medieval stain-glass), Elgar statue, Elgar murals and much more!
• Explore the Malvern Hills with our Elgar-themed walks, including Worcestershire Beacon, British Camp, from The Firs: Elgar’s Birthplace and Worcester city centre.
• Visiting Elgar’s grave at St. Wulstan’s Church
• Viewing commemorative plaques displayed on Elgar’s former residences’
• The riverside town of Upton upon Severn
• The historic city of Worcester. Don’t miss Worcester Cathedral and it’s ‘Elgar’ window.

There is also chance to enjoy additional locations off the beaten track, such as Madresfield Court, Spetchley Park Gardens, Witley Court (English Heritage) and the village of Longdon.

Check out our events page to find out where you can watch a classical music performance around The Malverns.

Check out where to stay for a short break or longer holiday to really appreciate the Elgar Route and the landscape which inspired Elgar.

Route Start – The Malverns

Start the route on the outskirts of Worcester, in Lower Broadheath, with a visit to Elgar’s birthplace at The Firs (now owned by the National Trust). Then, head off to Great Malvern where you’ll be able to take in the sights of the historic town.

Pay a visit to Malvern Theatres – formerly the Winter Gardens – marvel at the magnificent medieval stain-glass in Great Malvern Priory, walk around Priory Park with it’s marvellous trees and visit the Elgar statue located next to the Enigma Fountain at the top of Church Street.

Once you’ve enjoyed the lovely town centre of Great Malvern, head up to the Worcestershire Beacon before walking the peaks to admire the wonderful view of British Camp full of ‘Pomp & Circumstance’ in the distance.

Alternatively, head out in your car once more and drive up into the Malvern Hills along Wyche Road and Jubilee Drive, onto British Camp and then climb to the top of the historic hill-fort. Once at the top of the Malvern Hills, you’ll understand why this landscape inspired Elgar so much!

After a walk up to the top of the Malvern Hills taking in the spectacular views and amazing scenery, head out towards Malvern Wells to pay your respects at Sir Edward Elgar’s grave situated in St. Wulstan’s Church graveyard.

You’ll then drive past one of Elgar’s former homes before heading out towards the riverside town of Upton-upon-Severn, a great place to stop for a bite to eat and a walk along the riverside.

Worcester

Your next stop will be the historic city of Worcester after passing close to another one of Elgar’s former homes – Napleton Grange near Kempsey.

Once in the Faithful City, embark on an Elgar walk through the historic streets and admire the intricate Elgar memorial window on the north aisle of Worcester Cathedral. You’ll also be able to view another statue of the man himself in Cathedral Square.

Other city attractions to visit with an Elgar connection include The Guildhall, which is an impressive Queen Anne building dating back to 1722 and No 10 High Street, the former Elgar Brothers’ Shop.

Visit St. George’s Roman Catholic Church in Sansome Place where Elgar succeeded his father as the organist and see a commemorative plaque outside the Alice Ottley Girls School, now part of the Royal Grammar School on The Tything, where Elgar was a violin teacher.

Take Part

So, take part in the Elgar Route and enjoy a musical meander across the county celebrating the life of Worcestershire’s most famous son.

To find out more information about the Elgar Route, please download the Elgar Route leaflet or use our route map below.

Why not hire a Morgan sports car and tour the Elgar Route in style?