The Malverns

Pretty Great Malvern is a largely Victorian town, but its history stretches back much further. The Great Malvern Priory is a wonderfully restored, Grade-I listed building with a history beginning in 1085. It operated as a priory for over 450 years, and today is a parish church. It has many interesting architectural features, including a well-preserved collection of medieval wall tiles.

Croome Court is an 18^th century, Grade-I listed mansion which lies at the heart of magnificent parkland. These grand landscapes were ‘Capability’ Brown’s first commission, and there are wonderful views over the Malverns. Croome has an eclectic and intriguing history, having served variously as a stately home, a secret wartime airbase, and as the UK headquarters of the Hare Krishna movement, before being restored by the National Trust in a project beginning in the 21^st century.

Madresfield Court is an interesting and ancient moated property. Home to the Lygon family for almost 900 years, this stunning architectural masterpiece hosts fine collections of paintings and furniture, and was significant during the Arts & Crafts movement.

The recently refurbished Museum of Royal Worcester is the world’s largest collection of Worcester porcelain. The ‘Behind the Scenes’ talk provides an insight into the history of production here, via audio recordings and archives.

Hanbury Hall is an elegant William and Mary-style property nestled in the heart of rural Worcestershire. Offering a window into life at the turn of the 18^th century, it is filled with wall paintings that demonstrate the birth of Georgian society. The original formal gardens designed by George London have been impeccably restored, and complement the landscaped gardens and parkland.

Hellens Manor is an ancient home dating back to the 11^th century, packed with period artefacts. It boasts grand interiors, including beautiful historic textiles which have been carefully restored by volunteers from The Arts Society.