Worcester

Rolling hills stretch endlessly beyond Worcester's southern reaches, where the Malvern Hills rise like sleeping giants from the Worcestershire countryside. This WR8 postcode sits at the foot of some of England's most ancient landscape - geological formations that predate the Alps by hundreds of millions of years.

Perseverance Hill and Jubilee Hill offer cracking views across the vale, though it's Pinnacle Hill that really delivers the goods on clear days. The climb's worth every step. Down in the valley, Worcestershire Golf Club provides a gentler way to enjoy the scenery, its fairways carved between the undulating terrain.

Colwall station keeps you connected to the wider world, with regular services into Worcester proper and beyond to Birmingham. But honestly, you might not want to leave. The surrounding woodlands - Hanway's Coppice, Pen Coppice, and the sprawling Blackmore Wood - create a proper green corridor that's brilliant for walking.

Langdale Wood holds particular charm in autumn, when the canopy turns copper and gold. The Stone, a rather mysterious historic site, sits quietly among these ancient trees, its origins lost to time but its presence undeniably atmospheric.

New Pool provides a focal point for wildlife watchers, though don't expect dramatic water sports - this is countryside living at its most peaceful. The Church of the Good Shepherd anchors the local community, a modest but lovely building that fits perfectly with the area's gentle character.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense here. You're close enough to Worcester for proper shops and restaurants, yet far enough out to wake up to birdsong rather than traffic. The Malvern Hills stretch endlessly in both directions, offering different walks and viewpoints every day of your stay.