A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Beautiful countryside, culture and history dating back to the Norman conquest. Worcester is well known for its civil war connections, beautiful cathedral, cricket ground and sauce. Malvern is perhaps less well known unless you're a fan of Morgan cars but as a place to stay for a few days it is hard to beat.
England
City Breaks
Culture
Mar
Jun
Oct
Average group size: 12-14
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
Classed as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,
Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.
Overview
For your break in Worcestershire, you will be based in Great Malvern, nestled beneath the Malvern Hills. This scenic spa town is famed for its priory church and Morgan cars.
Spend the first day exploring the town on a guided morning walk. In the afternoon, venture out onto the Malvern Hills, where you embrace the superb views across the heart of England.
The next day, you will take a short train journey to Worcester. The cathedral is a highlight of your tour here, but there are many other hidden gems waiting to be revealed. You will also take a walk along the River Severn - the lifeblood of the city since its foundation.
For a gentle day’s walking, take the train east to Colwall and stroll back to Great Malvern. This is a classic local walk with views and bucolic scenes aplenty.
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
77414
Visiting two historic cities on a West Country break. Look out for the stark contrast between maritime industrial Bristol and gentile Spa town, Bath.
Welcome to God's country. This is a holiday defined by four fine and contrasting buildings. Harrogate Pump Room, Harrogate Turkish Baths, York Minster and Fountains Abbey. Throw in some fine walking and two guided tours and we have a great recipe for a short break. Enjoy!
Walk highlights of The Geopark Way long distance path from Alfrick to Eastnor.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Meals
Accommodation
Independently arrive at the Abbey Hotel, Great Malvern in the afternoon. Your leader will meet you in the hotel bar just before dinner. Dinner each evening is taken in the hotel restaurant.
Meals
Accommodation
Start your holiday with a Blue Badge guide meeting you at the hotel for a walk around Malvern. The highlight must be the Priory Church; dating back to 1085 it was saved by locals during the reformation when they bought the church from Henry VIII for £20. Quite a bargain! After lunch, take a short stroll out into the Malvern Hills with views across the Heart of England.
This afternoon, there will be a circular walk that takes in North Hill and then swings around under the Worcestershire Beacon, the highest point on the Malvern Hills at 425m. The paths are generally good underfoot.
Malvern is the home of Morgan cars. It may not be to everybody's taste and is not included in the price of the holiday, but for those who are interested Morgan offer a very well thought of tour of the factory. This would need to be pre-booked at www.morgan-motor.com/factorytour/. The obvious time to book would be this afternoon but this would mean missing the walk.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Meals
Accommodation
Take the short train ride into Worcester. Again, your Blue Badge guide will meet us for a guided morning’s walk around this attractive city. Includes is a visit to the impressive cathedral in the heart of the city (a donation to the cathedral is included).
After lunch you will again have time for a local walk, but you may prefer to take in the excellent porcelain museum and other city sites. In the afternoon we plan a walk along the Severn to the Diglis Basin (with its impressive riverside developments), cross the river there and return via Worcestershire’s Cricket Ground. A walk of 4 miles. Alas floods are not an uncommon experience in winter here, hence there maybe times when this walk will not be possible. If there are any issues with flooding, then you can walk along the Worcester to Birmingham Canal. A highlight on this walk is the Commandery, the Royalist HQ during the Battle of Worcester (£5 entry, not included). Both walks are similar distance.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Meals
Accommodation
Today is given over to exploring the local countryside on foot. Start with the short stroll down to Malvern train station to catch a train west to Colwall, the next station down the line. From here you take a classic walk heading generally north back to Gt Malvern. As ever, the Malvern hills offer superb views, particularly from Worcestershire Beacon, the high point of the walk. You are able to walk back to the hotel.
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Meals
Independent departure from The Abbey Hotel after breakfast. Check out is by 11am.
We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and look forward to welcoming you on another soon.
From (GBP)£599
Departure dates for your selected tour
7th Oct 2024 - 11th Oct 2024 (4 Nights)
24th Mar 2025 - 28th Mar 2025 (4 Nights)
9th Jun 2025 - 13th Jun 2025 (4 Nights)
20th Oct 2025 - 24th Oct 2025 (4 Nights)
To reach the hotel…
by car: M5 from The South.
Exit Junction 8 and take M50 to Junction 1. Take A38 for 3 miles and turn left onto the A4104. At Upton-upon-Severn, turn right at the mini roundabout towards Great Malvern and after about 2 miles turn left onto the B4211, marked Great Malvern. Once through Barnards Green, take the third exit at the roundabout up the hill into Barnards Green Road. Turn left at the next traffic lights and then as the road bends sharply to the left, turn right into Abbey Road.
M5 from the North. Exit Junction 7 and follow the signs for the A449 marked Malvern. After approx. 8 miles you will pass the Malvern Link Common on your left, you need to turn left at the traffic lights into Graham Road marked Malvern Theatres. Go straight over two sets of traffic lights, pass Malvern Theatres on your left, then as the road bends sharply to the left, and turn right into Abbey Road
by rail: Great Malvern Station is situated on the Intercity Rail Network between Paddington and Hereford. The station is situated less than one mile from the Abbey Hotel.
Taxis from Great Malvern station. With Malvern Taxis (Tel: 07775 060704), will cost approximately £3.50-£4.00. It is only a two minute taxi ride to the hotel.
The Abbey Hotel is right in the centre of the small town and is situated next to the Priory Church and Theatre.
You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation: www.rome2rio.com
The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk
Please check the time of dinner on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the hotel bar half an hour before dinner (approximately 7pm) for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
The four-star Abbey Hotel in Great Malvern lies in the heart of traditional English countryside, at the foot of the ancient Malvern Hills, making it an excellent base for our explorations along the Geopark Way.
Unique rooms with high-speed Wi-Fi have everything you need to unwind, including coffee and tea-making facilities, satellite TV channels and room service. Enjoy seasonal British and Mediterranean cuisine in the refurbished Priory View restaurant, with views over the Vale of Evesham, or take a drink at the bar.
Guests also have access to the local leisure centre, a two minute walk away, with a swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room.
Trip Information
Classed as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,
Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks.
The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we have included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
When budgeting for your holiday, you will need to consider drinks, non-included entrance fees, optional excursions you may choose to participate in locally and any souvenirs or additional services such as laundry.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
To reach the hotel…
by car: M5 from The South.
Exit Junction 8 and take M50 to Junction 1. Take A38 for 3 miles and turn left onto the A4104. At Upton-upon-Severn, turn right at the mini roundabout towards Great Malvern and after about 2 miles turn left onto the B4211, marked Great Malvern. Once through Barnards Green, take the third exit at the roundabout up the hill into Barnards Green Road. Turn left at the next traffic lights and then as the road bends sharply to the left, turn right into Abbey Road.
M5 from the North. Exit Junction 7 and follow the signs for the A449 marked Malvern. After approx 8 miles you will pass the Malvern Link Common on your left, you need to turn left at the traffic lights into Graham Road marked Malvern Theatres. Go straight over two sets of traffic lights, pass Malvern Theatres on your left, then as the road bends sharply to the left, and turn right into Abbey Road
by rail: Great Malvern Station is situated on the Intercity Rail Network between Paddington and Hereford. The station is situated less than one mile from the Abbey Hotel.
Taxis from Great Malvern station. With Malvern Taxis (Tel: 07775 060704), will cost approximately £3.50-£4.00. It is only a two minute taxi ride to the hotel.
The Abbey Hotel is right in the centre of the small town and is situated next to the Priory Church and Theatre.
You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation: www.rome2rio.com
The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk
Please check the time of dinner on arrival at the hotel, and aim to be in the hotel bar half an hour before dinner (approximately 7pm) for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
Accommodation is on a half board basis with buffet breakfasts and dinners taken at the hotel. Picnic lunches are not included.
Footwear
Good quality waterproof walking shoes or trail shoes with a thick, moulded sole with a good tread and a low heel are likely to be all that is required for these holidays. If you are a frequent walker and are comfortable in good quality hiking sandals, these may be adequate for some walks. You can wear lightweight walking boots if you prefer.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally, we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for United Kingdom
No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.
Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or try to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
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