As the saying goes, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong kit. And if there’s one thing we have learnt from travelling with small children, it’s to come prepared for all eventualities. Thanks to the huge boot in our Adamo 75-4I, we have more than enough space to pack everything but the kitchen sink when we head away, which, given the inclement weather that has coincided with our latest adventure, is just as well.

Not only does it offer plenty of space, as we have discovered, it makes for a great drying room thanks to the heating vent, allowing us to dry various coats, shoes and boots at the end of each day. It might seem like a small detail, but it’s hugely important when travelling through colder, wetter months to have the ability to get everything dry at the end of the day so that we are ready to go again the following day. There’s nothing worse than having to put on damp, cold coats and boots, something we don’t have to worry about now.

Anyway, that’s enough about the wonders of the Adamo boot. Let’s take more of a look at why The Malverns make for a wonderful location for a short break, even as the nights draw in and the days become a lot cooler, and sadly a bit wetter too. Here are our top picks for a range of activities to suit all ages and interests.

Anyway, that’s enough about the wonders of the Adamo boot. Let’s take more of a look at why The Malverns make for a wonderful location for a short break, even as the nights draw in and the days become a lot cooler, and sadly a bit wetter too. Here are our top picks for a range of activities to suit all ages and interests.

On the other side of the hills from Malvern itself lies arguably one of England’s most beautiful vineyards, the Coddington Vineyard. Dating back to the early 1980s and family-run, they offer fantastic tours, showcasing both; the vineyard and their delightful wine. This is most definitely one for when the weather is fine when you can sit and enjoy a nice glass of crisp, cold white wine in the late afternoon sunshine.

For those who prefer to explore a region on two wheels, there are some wonderful rides, both on and off-road, to be enjoyed in and around the Malvern Hills. The paths that lead up to Worcestershire Beacon are entirely rideable on a gravel or mountain bike, even if a little steep in the outset while you get out of Malvern and offer brilliant views (weather permitting) across to the Black Mountains in one direction, and across to Herefordshire in the other.

Nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills sits the enchanting Eastnor Castle, offering intriguing activities for visitors of all ages, especially children, and is a firm favourite when we visit the area. With activities including the Knights Maze, a treetop walkway, an adventure playground and a junior obstacle course. There’s more than enough to keep little ones entertained. The castle is surrounded by an arboretum full of spectacular trees and is also home to a vast lake that you can walk around. Adults and children alike will delight at the homemade cakes and ice-creams on offer in the team room.

You don’t have to be a lover of classical music to enjoy this circular loop through the region that inspired one of England’s greatest composers; Sir Edward Elgar. The Elgar Route takes in a symphony of sights through the ‘land of hope and glory’ and makes for a lovely drive or bike ride, with several noticeable stop-offs along the way, including his birthplace in Lower Broadheath. Both Worcester and Malvern make for ideal lunch stops, where there are a host of excellent independent eateries.

Malvern is home to a true British icon, the Morgan Motor Company, and it’s here at their site on Pickersleigh Road that automotive thrill-seekers and travellers alike can now enjoy the Morgan Experience Centre. Visitors can take a guided factory tour and see how these beautiful cars are lovingly made, as well as either hiring cars which drive themselves or sign-up for one of the guided drives to not only enjoy their Plus Four car but the best roads in the area.

Walk or mountain bike, the choice is yours, but whichever way you get to the top of the highest point of the string of hills that form the distinctive ridge behind Malvern, of which Worcestershire Beacon is the highest, it’s well worth the effort. There are many routes to the summit, but the most convenient, both for parking and post-walk food and drink, starts at the foot of St Ann’s Road and heads sharply upwards, from where the walk is well-signed to the summit. There are also several circular loops you can walk to explore the full length of the ridge.

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