5 Beautiful Countryside Walks Near Malvern (Without the Crowds)

Quiet walks close to Barton Court

Barton Court sits on the western slopes of the Malvern Hills, perfectly place for some of the best walking in the country. Here are a selection of our favourite routes that cater for all ages and abilities.

The Malvern Hills are rightly famous — but some of the most enjoyable walks lie just beyond the busiest paths. Quiet lanes, wooded slopes and open farmland offer equally rewarding views without the crowds. It can be surprising just how crowded the hills canget, especially in good weather.

From gentle rambles through orchards and meadows to longer circular walks with far-reaching countryside views, the area around Malvern is ideal for walkers who prefer space and stillness. Many routes start directly from villages or country lanes, making them easy to combine with a pub lunch or afternoon tea.

For guests staying at Barton Court, these lesser-known walks offer the chance to experience the landscape at its most peaceful — especially early in the morning or on weekday afternoons.

British Camp

1) North Quarry & Worcestershire Beacon Circular – moderate loop with views

🌿 A classic Malvern Hills walk that mixes gentle slopes with expansive views across the countryside.
💪 Distance: ~6.8 km / Time: ~2.5–3 hrs / Difficulty: Moderate.

👉 Map & directions:
• AllTrails — Malvern North Quarry & Worcestershire Beacon Circular — https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/worcestershire/malvern-north-quarry-and-worcestershire-beacon-circular

Why guests love it: A balanced route with some elevation and great panoramas — perfect for a morning or afternoon walk after breakfast at Barton Court.

2) Worcester Beacon Summit + Table Hill Out & Back – shorter peak adventure

🌄 A rewarding walk up to two of the Malvern Hills’ best viewpoints — great for sunrise or sunset trips.
💪 Distance: ~7.7 km / Time: ~2.5–3 hrs / Difficulty: Moderate.

👉 Map & directions:
• AllTrails — Malvern Hills with Worcester Beacon and Table Hill — https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/worcestershire/malvern-hills-with-worcester-beacon-and-table-hill

Why guests love it: Dramatic ridgeline walking with panoramic views at multiple summits — very Instagram-friendly.

3) British Camp Circular – history + countryside vistas

🏞️ A lovely loop that visits the ancient Iron Age hillfort at British Camp with countryside views throughout.
💪 Distance: ~6.9 km / Time: ~2–2.5 hrs / Difficulty: Moderate.

👉 Map & directions:
• AllTrails — British Camp Circular — https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/worcestershire/british-camp-circular

Why guests love it: Combines open ridges, woodlands and a bit of history — lovely for walkers interested in both scenery and stories.

4) Shorter Worcester Beacon Hike – great if time’s tight

👣 Best for guests who want a quick but worthwhile hilltop experience.
💪 Distance: ~3.2 km / Time: ~1–1.5 hrs / Difficulty: Moderate.

👉 Map & directions:
• AllTrails — Worcestershire Beacon Trail — https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/worcestershire/malvern-worcester-beacon

Why guests love it: A focused climb to one of the highest points in the Hills — ideal before lunch or before heading back to explore Malvern town.

5) Easier Access Paths / Black Hill Stroll – gentle elevation, great for all abilities

🍃 Perfect for families, older walkers or anyone wanting a gentler taste of hill walking.
💪 Distance: Variable (short loops possible) / Difficulty: Easy.

👉 Map & directions:
• Malvern Hills Trust – Easier Access Trails (route suggestions and location info) — https://www.malvernhills.org.uk/visiting/walking/easier-access/

Why guests love it: Well-surfaced paths and benches make this a lovely option for scenic wandering — great for a relaxed afternoon.
Tip: It’s brilliant combined with tea or lunch in Great Malvern afterwards.

Practical Tips for Walking in the Malvern Area

For those with mobility issues who would, nevertheless, like to explore the hills, it is possible to hire all terrain mobility scooters from these places:

• Eastnor Deer Park: Offers Tramper hire for exploring their grounds, requiring pre-booking and a small deposit.

• Malvern Hills Geocentre: Helped set up a Tramper for easier access towards the Worcestershire Beacon, bookable for short slots. 

The links to All Trails allow you access to free maps which you can download on your phone and use without an internet connection.

When you walk the hills, please be mindful of the countryside code and shut and gates behind you to prevent livestock getting loose and, if you have a dog, please keep your dog on a lead when near animals.

The weather can change very quickly on the hills. Be prepared with some appropriate clothing and don’t forget to check the weather report before you set off.

If you are staying in the area midweek, you will find the routes a lot quieter.

Take plenty of water, a camera in some form and wear comfy. shoes so that you enjoy the full beauty.