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Malvern, The Vale and Herefordshire’s Black & White Trail - Online Travel Guide
Discover Worcestershire & Herefordshire gems over 143 miles (230 km)
Includes 16 key destinations and 100s of references
Follow in 2 sections, covering the Malverns and Vale of Evesham to the edges of the Cotswolds, and the Black & White Trail through Herefordshire
Plus themed routes include: Elgar Route, Blossom Trail, Civil War Trail, and Herefordshire Cider Route
Historic Heartlands:
Malvern Hills and Vale
+ Black-and-White Villages of Herefordshire Trail
Explore the historic heart of England on a road trip that weaves together some of the region’s most distinctive landscapes and heritage-rich towns. This carefully designed route takes you from the dramatic ridgelines of the Malvern Hills through the fertile Vale of Evesham, past honey-stone Cotswold-edge villages, and into the timber-framed charm of Herefordshire’s black-and-white villages.
Along the way, you’ll pass through three historic counties — Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, and Herefordshire — uncovering a unique mix of rural scenery, cultural landmarks, and centuries-old architecture. Highlights include the cathedral cities of Worcester and Hereford, market towns like Ledbury, Tewkesbury, and Leominster, and picture-perfect stops such as Broadway, Snowshill, Winchcombe, Pembridge, Weobley, and Eardisland.
The route follows themed trails including the Elgar Route, the Blossom Trail, the Civil War Trail, and the Herefordshire Cider Route — offering varied insights into the region’s music, agriculture, political history, and rural life. From springtime orchards and Civil War battlefields to quiet valleys and characterful pubs, this itinerary brings together everything that makes the English countryside so rewarding to explore.
Covering 143 miles (230 km) with a suggested drive time of just over 5 hours, the trip is split into two easy-to-plan sections and includes flexible options for weekend breaks or longer journeys. Whether you're drawn to medieval churches, sweeping hill walks, or local cider tastings, this is a route that celebrates the depth and charm of England’s historic heartlands.
Great Malvern – Discover Edwardian spa heritage, the Malvern Hills, and Elgar’s musical legacy
Upton-upon-Severn, Evesham& Pershore – Enjoy riverside walks, half-timbered buildings, and charming high streets
Fringes of the Cotswolds: Broadway & Snowshill – Follow the Blossom Trail in season and visit honey-stone villages
Winchcombe & Tewkesbury – Explore market towns and medieval architecture, including Sudeley Castle and Tewkesbury Abbey
Ledbury & Hereford – See iconic black-and-white buildings and visit the Mappa Mundi at Hereford Cathedral
Weobley, Pembridge & Eardisland – Drive the Black and White Villages Trail and step into postcard-worthy scenes
Leominster, Bromyard & Worcester – End with antiques, abbeys, and Worcester Cathedral’s riverside charm
Themed Trails – Optional routes including the Civil War Trail, Blossom Trail and Cider Route
Plan with Confidence
All-in-One Online Platform
Structured by Section
Flexible Itinerary Options (3–14 Days)
Customisable Directions
Create a Printable Shortlist
Enrich the Journey
Signposted Attractions & Experiences
Historical & Cultural References
Multi-Device Access (mobile, tablet or desktop)
Hidden gems and off-the-beaten track
Explore with Ease
Map with Pinpoints
Self-Guided Walking Tours
Travel, Directions & Parking
Public Transport Information
Overnight Stay Options
Highlights included in this Malvern Hills, The Vale and Herefordshire’s Black and White Trail Travel Guide
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![Malvern Hills]()
Malvern Hills
Exploring the Malvern Hills is an essential addition to your road trip itinerary. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on scenic trails that wind through this picturesque landscape, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the Malvern Hills cater to all skill levels.
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![Herefordshire’s Black and White Trail]()
Herefordshire’s Black and White Trail
A scenic driving route through Herefordshire’s prettiest villages, the Black and White Trail showcases centuries-old timber-framed buildings, traditional pubs, and quiet countryside charm. Discover gems like Weobley, Pembridge, and Eardisland, where history and heritage meet rural beauty. Image copyright: Visit Herefordshire
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![Worcester Cathedral]()
Worcester Cathedral
Visiting Worcester Cathedral on your road trip offers a captivating journey into centuries of history and architectural splendour. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of its Gothic architecture as you explore the majestic interior, adorned with stunning stained glass windows and ornate tombs. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply seeking a moment of peace, Worcester Cathedral is a must-visit destination on your road trip.
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![Black and White Tudor building]()
Black and White Tudor buildings
Be sure to include Worcestershire's Black and White Tudor buildings trail on your road trip itinerary. These historic structures, with their distinctive timber-framed facades, offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich architectural heritage. Wander through picturesque villages and quaint streets to check out the Black and White Tudor buildings which are sure to leave a lasting impression on your road trip adventure.
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![Cathedral City of Hereford]()
Cathedral City of Hereford
A historic cathedral city on the River Wye, Hereford blends medieval charm with vibrant market town energy. Home to the famous Mappa Mundi and a striking 11th-century cathedral, it’s the cultural heart of Herefordshire — perfect for a relaxed wander, riverside views, and discovering centuries of heritage. Image copyright: Visit Herefordshire
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![Broadway & Cotswolds]()
Broadway & Cotswolds
Head to the fringes of the Cotswolds where Worcestershire and the Cotswolds meet at the northern edge of the Cotswolds. Explore the picturesque village of Broadway nestled in the e Cotswolds. Wander along its charming high street lined with honey-coloured stone buildings. Admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from Broadway Tower, and immerse yourself in the quintessential English countryside charm of this historic village.
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![Market & Riverside Towns]()
Market & Riverside Towns
Dotted along gentle rivers and nestled in green valleys, the market and riverside towns of this region offer a laid-back charm and rich local character. Expect lively markets, historic high streets, waterside walks, and a warm welcome — from the timbered beauty of Ledbury to the riverside calm of Upton-upon-Severn. Perfect for a leisurely stop or a deeper local experience. Image copyright: Visit Herefordshire
Point-to-Point Guide and Plan, More Than Just a Map
Our guides are built for road‑trippers who want to go beyond some pins on a map - with flexible, curated itineraries designed to help you explore with purpose and make the most of every moment.
From 3‑day getaways to 2‑week adventures, we provide a point-to-point plan to cherry-pick from, not just how to get there. This is not just a map; it’s a thoughtful guide for a meaningful way to explore with loads of extra travel information.
Digital & Accessible – Read anytime on phone, tablet or desktop for 12 months.
Flexible Itineraries – Plan trips from 3 to 14 days with mix-and-match options.
Curated Highlights – Signposting to attractions, experiences and overnight stops.
Travel and Transport Information – including by car, parking, public transport, and air.
Maps and Route – Google Maps point-to-point, plus references and pre-populated customisable routes.
Online access - nothing to download
Local & Practical Tips – Includes self-guided walking tours, hidden gems and references.
Linked for Ease – Click straight through to bookings and local info.
Printable Shortlist – Save and print your personalised itinerary.
Member already? Access via the member’s login
Plan Your Malvern and Herefordshire Road Trip
This 143-mile (230 km) route is one of the most scenic and culturally rewarding road trips in the West Midlands. It combines outstanding natural beauty with deep-rooted history, guiding you through the dramatic slopes of the Malvern Hills, the fertile Vale of Evesham, and the timeless villages of rural Herefordshire. From cathedral cities to countryside lanes, this trip reveals a quieter, more characterful England — ideal for travellers seeking local stories, striking views, and off-the-beaten-path charm.
Starting in the historic spa town of Great Malvern, the route flows through orchard-rich landscapes, blossom-lined lanes, and market towns full of medieval, Georgian, and Tudor architecture. With detailed guides to 16 key locations and suggested routes that suit both weekend getaways and longer two-week journeys, this digital travel guide is designed for maximum flexibility and ease.
Whether you're drawn to music history along the Elgar Route, springtime walks on the Blossom Trail, a deep dive into Civil War sites, or sampling local traditions on the Herefordshire Cider Route, this guide brings it all together in one place — no downloads, no apps, just clear, curated planning support.
Road Trip Highlights at a Glance:
143 miles (230 km) total route, split into two easy-to-navigate sections
Includes 16 key stops across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, and Herefordshire
Covers cathedral cities, Cotswold-edge villages, and historic market towns
Themed trails include the Elgar Route, Blossom Trail, Civil War Trail, and Cider Route
Flexible itineraries from 3-day escapes to full two-week slow travel options
Ideal for couples, heritage travellers, walkers, and culture lovers
Explore medieval churches, timber-framed villages, castles, and countryside pubs
Best enjoyed in spring or autumn, but beautiful year-round
No apps or downloads required — online access with printable maps and destination insights
Every great road trip begins with an idea — a place that pulls you in, a view you can’t stop thinking about, or simply the urge to get out on the open road. You can dip into fresh inspiration, find experiences to excite you, look for the kind of vehicle that suits your style of travelling, and get practical road trip planning tips to make planning simple rather than stressful. However you like to explore, you’ll find everything you need to start turning your trip into something memorable.
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