Malvern is a spa town in Worcestershire, England and it is located at the foot of the spectacular Malvern Hills. Whether you are intending for your children to be day pupils or boarders, living in Malvern is a great option for your family.
Malvern was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1959. Pupils who attend either Malvern College or The Downs Malvern are lucky enough to enjoy the vast beauty that surrounds them through our many outdoor pursuits and activities. Families who live close by are lucky enough to be able to do the same.
There are many things to see, experience and enjoy in the area, with many families who move to Malvern staying here for many generations.
In recognition of this, The Sunday Times Best Places to Live List 2023, sponsored by Halifax, included Great Malvern on its latest prestigious list. The “dramatic views of the hills” and “well-kept town centre” were cited as two of the reasons that secured the town its place.
Surrounded by rolling hills, but with easy access to the cosmopolitan cities of Worcester, Birmingham and Gloucester, Malvern really does have it all.
A town steeped in history
Malvern’s status as a spa town comes from the Malvern Spring Water and it is known for its purity – the water has been known to be a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II.
We are in an area with a rich heritage, having been a favourite place of Charles Darwin, Florence Nightingale, opera singer Jenny Lind and renowned composer Sir Edward Elgar. Its beauty and tranquillity have also inspired many authors and poets over the years, including C.S. Lewis (an Old Malvernian), J.R.R. Tolkien, W.H. Auden and William Wordsworth to name but a few.
Perhaps inspired by the legacy laid before them, the community in Malvern has an artistic nature and creative talent, and the town regularly celebrates with festivals and events.
Transport links
Surrounded by rolling hills, but with easy access to the cities of Worcester, Birmingham and Gloucester, Malvern really does have it all. We benefit from a regular direct train service to London Paddington as well as good motorway links.
What is it like to live in Malvern?
You can’t talk about Malvern without mentioning the sheer beauty of the area – it really does have to be seen to be believed. Indeed, in 2009, the UK charity ‘The Ramblers’ voted the view from the top of the Malvern Hills as one of Britain's best. Local residents can enjoy all this countryside and fresh air right on their doorstep.
What is there to do in Malvern?
This peaceful area has a vibrancy that means you’ll never be short of an activity to do:
- Walk the Hills: Whether you are seeking an exhilarating climb or a gentle stroll, the walks around Malvern are breath-taking.
- Malvern Theatre: Catch the latest shows here as the theatre regularly hosts leading productions from the West End.
- Shopping: Indulge in some retail therapy at the area’s many independent boutiques and shops.
- Get outdoors: Whether you’re interested in cycling, paragliding, climbing, horse riding or golfing, there’s an outdoor pursuit for everyone in Malvern.
- Sample our culinary delights: The area caters for all palettes and tastes, from fancy gastronomy, award-winning restaurants, vineyards, cosy pubs, eclectic pizzerias, tea rooms, cafes and lively bars.
- Follow in Elgar’s footsteps: The landscape around Malvern held much inspiration for Sir Edward Elgar’s compositions. Follow the well-trodden ‘Elgar Route’ to visit some of his favourite haunts and scenic views.
- Book a tour of the Morgan Factory: See where the iconic sports car is built or book a 'Morgan Experience' and have a test drive (you could even see the spot on the College campus where the prototype car was developed).
- Enjoy the local culture and traditions, through festivals, fairs, concerts and agricultural shows.
Are you considering moving to Malvern? Get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable Admissions team and they will be able to help you organise a visit to Malvern and a tour of our school.