moderate
4 hours
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to comfortably manage 3 miles of rolling terrain with intermittent stops.
Trace the steps of literary giants C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien on a scenic 3-mile walk across the Malvern Hills, ending with afternoon tea at a charming Georgian hotel. Walking the Hills’ unique journey blends nature, history, and storytelling in Worcestershire’s striking landscape.
Perched on the edge of the Malvern Hills in Worcestershire, Walking the Hills offers a distinctive journey connecting nature, literature, and local heritage. Their signature experience, Tea & Tales: Walking in the Footsteps of Lewis & Tolkien in Malvern, threads a 3-mile route through landscapes that inspired some of the 20th century's greatest storytellers, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. This 4-hour adventure weaves invigorating walking with cultural depth, appealing to hikers and literature enthusiasts alike.
The Malvern Hills stretch across the border of Worcestershire and Herefordshire, a geological ridge formed from some of the oldest rocks in England, including Precambrian igneous formations that have withstood millions of years of erosion. Their sharp ridges and open summits punctuate the countryside, providing sweeping views across the Vale of Evesham and beyond. The hills are also known for their rare flora, including the fragrant wild thyme and early purple orchids that color the slopes in spring and summer.
Walking the Hills guides bring to life the connection between the natural environment here and the fantastical worlds envisioned by Lewis and Tolkien. Along the trail, participants trace the same hillsides that sparked the imagination behind Narnia and Middle-earth. The walk concludes at a classy Georgian hotel in Broadway, where guests enjoy an afternoon tea complete with fresh scones, jams, and spectacular views over the Cotswolds, lending a perfect mix of relaxation and reflection.
This trip stands apart in the Malvern outdoor scene by blending literary history with accessible outdoor activity. It invites visitors to see the hills through a layered lens—appreciating both their raw natural beauty and their profound cultural echoes. Walking the Hills anchors this experience in a genuine connection to place, offering a heartfelt, well-rounded day out in one of England’s most inspiring countryside settings.
The route covers uneven hillside terrain; ankle support is recommended.
Though tea is provided at the end, staying hydrated on the trail is important.
Malvern Hills weather can change quickly; bring a waterproof layer.
The 4-hour tour balances walking with storytelling and stops; moderate fitness is beneficial.
The Malvern Hills have inspired artists and writers for centuries, their ancient geology shaping a dramatic, unspoiled landscape cherished locally.
Walking the Hills promotes Leave No Trace principles to preserve the fragile hill ecosystems and sustain local wildlife habitats.
Protects feet on uneven and potentially damp trail surfaces.
Keeps you hydrated throughout the journey before afternoon tea.
Allows quick adjustment to changing weather and temperatures.
Capture the striking views and memorable moments along the hills.