Winter Coombe

Valley in Worcestershire Malvern Hills

England

Winter Coombe

A449 at Wayend Street Credit: Peter Whatley

Winter Coombe is a picturesque valley located in the county of Worcestershire, England. Nestled in the heart of the Malvern Hills, it offers visitors stunning natural beauty and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The valley is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, with a rich variety of plant species thriving in its fertile soil. Lush meadows, ancient woodlands, and babbling brooks create a harmonious blend of landscapes. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the numerous footpaths that crisscross the valley, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills and countryside.

Historically, Winter Coombe has been inhabited for centuries, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. The valley's fertile land has attracted farmers and agricultural communities throughout the ages. Traditional stone cottages and farmhouses dot the landscape, preserving the area's rural charm and character.

In addition to its natural beauty, Winter Coombe offers a range of recreational activities. Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, while nature lovers can indulge in birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The valley also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating the local culture and traditions.

Visitors to Winter Coombe can enjoy a peaceful retreat in one of the charming bed and breakfasts or self-catering cottages available in the area. The nearby village provides amenities such as quaint pubs, cafes, and shops, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all.

Overall, Winter Coombe is a hidden gem in Worcestershire, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rural heritage, and outdoor activities. Whether seeking a quiet getaway or an adventure in nature, this valley provides an idyllic setting for visitors to relax and reconnect with the great outdoors.

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Winter Coombe Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.027785/-2.3504279 or Grid Reference SO7636. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A449 at Wayend Street

Peter Whatley

Hollybush Hill from the A438

Peter Whatley

Roadside cottages near Hollybush

Peter Whatley

A438 at Hollybush

Peter Whatley

Hollybush crossroads, A438

Peter Whatley

A438 near Coombegreen Common

Peter Whatley

A438 descends toward Rye Cross

Peter Whatley

Hollybush Hill

It can be quite hard to imagine that 2000 years ago this quiet spot was part of a busy town - the Midsummer Hill iron-age hill-fort. Excavations in the late 1960s by Stan Stanford showed the area full of small building plots. Each plot had been reused time and time again over the centuries suggesting continuous occupation. The buildings used four posts arranged in a square - not at all like the round huts usually depicted for this era. Evidence for similar square buildings have been found in other so called "hill-forts" in Herefordshire and the Welsh Marches

Bob Embleton

North gate of Midsummer Hill iron-age hill-fort

Looking north along the Malvern Hills. Another hill-fort occupies Herefordshire Beacon on the left. Straight ahead are three overlapping peaks of Pinnacle Hill (north and south) and Black Hill. In the far distance one can just make out Worcestershire Beacon in the haze.

Bob Embleton

The shelter on Midsummer Hill

The shelter was built by the owners of Eastnor Castle and the hill. In 1923 the hill was given to the National Trust in memory of Captain Reginald Somers Cocks, MC who died in the first world war.

Bob Embleton

Hillfort ditch on Midsummer Hill

Looking north-west from Midsummer Hill with the Somers Obelisk on the left and Peacock Villa on the right. A commanding view across the countryside as autumn takes a grip. The ditch just below runs around the complete top of Midsummer Hill and Hollybush Hill to enclose a large area. Less well-known than its neighbour the Hereford Beacon, but may well have been just as important in the Iron Age.

Trevor Rickard

The obelisk from Midsummer Hill

From Midsummer Hill looking west across Eastnor Park to Frith Hill above Ledbury.

Trevor Rickard

Red Deer in Eastnor Park

View north-east towards a group of deer foraging amongst the bracken. Around 200 deer roam the large area of parkland.

Trevor Rickard

Coombegreen

The view from Wendy Woodward's seat atop the hillock on Coombegreen Common. Looking out to the houses on the B4208 and those on Birts Street. SO7736 : Wendy Woodward's seat, Coombegreen Common

Bob Embleton

Wendy Woodward's seat, Coombegreen Common

The seat is at the front of the hill overlooking the Severn Plain. Behind are several commemorative trees including one dating back to 1937 for the King's Coronation. SO7736 : Plaque on Wendy Woodward's seat, Coombe Green SO7736 : Wendy Woodward's seat, Coombe Green Common SO7736 : Coombegreen

Bob Embleton

Plaque on Wendy Woodward's seat, Coombe Green

In loving memory of Wendy Woodward Died 3 March 2004 aged 90 years Enjoy the view as she did SO7736 : Wendy Woodward's seat, Coombegreen Common

Bob Embleton

Wendy Woodward's seat, Coombe Green Common

At the front of the hill overlooking the Severn Plain. SO7736 : Wendy Woodward's seat, Coombegreen Common

Bob Embleton

Hollybush Fete, Hollybush Church Hall, 2011

An auction of donated items too good for the bric-a-brac stall is taking place. On the other side of the hall the skittles competition was taking place. On this side books, CDs, a raffle. Inside the hall, Cakes, jams, produce (I bought a box of quinces for £1!) clothes, and the bric-a-brac stall. Scrummy cakes and cups of tea served in the adjoining room.

Bob Embleton

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Winter Coombe is located at Grid Ref: SO7636 (Lat: 52.027785, Lng: -2.3504279)

Administrative County: Worcestershire

District: Malvern Hills

Police Authority: West Mercia