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United Kingdom
England
West Midlands Region
Worcestershire
Malvern Hills

West Malvern

Top 6 Lakes around West Malvern

Best lakes around West Malvern are found within the broader Malvern area, offering diverse water bodies. While West Malvern itself is known for its position on the Malvern Hills, the surrounding region features several notable lakes. These include former quarries filled with spring water and tranquil natural pools. The area provides opportunities for exploring geological interests and observing local wildlife.

Best lakes around West Malvern

  • The most popular lakes is Summer Hill, a lake that provides scenic views. It is an excellent spot for a picnic on a walk up to Summer Hill.
  • Another must-see spot is Gullet Quarry, a former quarry filled with Malvern spring water. It is known for its clear turquoise waters and towering cliffs, showcasing Precambrian rock formations, though swimming is no longer permitted.
  • Visitors also love Earnslaw Pool, a secluded natural spot and a haven for wildlife. This tranquil and shaded environment is ideal for observing nature.
  • West Malvern is known for quarry lakes, natural pools, and dedicated nature reserves with small ponds. The variety of water bodies offers diverse recreational opportunities and natural beauty.
  • The lakes around West Malvern are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 360 upvotes and 70 photos shared.

Last updated: May 2, 2026

Summer Hill

Highlight • Lake

Nice view and parking nearby.

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Gullet Quarry

Highlight • Natural

Quarry filled with Malvern spring water. Previously a popular swimming spot. No longer allowed

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Earnslaw Pool

Highlight • Natural

Real chilled out spot nice and shaded too, tread carefully as the ground is very uneven.

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Charlie Ballard Nature Reserve

Highlight • Forest

Lovely little nature reserve nestled just beyond the Colwall Railway Station. Small pond, adler woods and beyond a bog.

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Earnslaw Quarry Lake

Highlight • Structure

Beautiful lake tucked away in an old quarry bed.

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Popular around West Malvern

Running Trails around West Malvern

Road Cycling Routes around West Malvern

Cycling around West Malvern

Hiking around West Malvern

MTB Trails around West Malvern

Gravel biking around West Malvern

Tips from the Community

Jordan Jenkins
April 1, 2026, Gullet Quarry

Lovely quarry and very to follow the route up to the top.

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Clive G
October 8, 2025, Gullet Quarry

This is quite a spectacular place but quite rightly the Conservators and local authorities have securely fenced it off as there have been a large number of drownings here over the years. People have jumped off the low cliffs inot the freezing cold water and have also collided with old machinery and vehicles that are hidden under the water.

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Clive G
September 15, 2025, Summer Hill

Summer Hill is a bit of a bump in between the Beacon and the Wyche Cutting, however it's steep southern aspect does afford some of the best views along the Malvern Hills ridge, particularly when there is an Inversion happening.

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Geraint
February 1, 2025, Earnslaw Pool

great place for a rest/ picnic

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The hill lies to the south of the Worcestershire Beacon, which is Worcestershire's (and the Malvern Hills') highest hill, and Summer Hill's summit, though often overlooked given the grandeur of its neighbour, is a most respectable 1,253 feet above sea level. Source: Wikishire

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Andy Smith
December 21, 2023, Summer Hill

Another of the many mini peaks

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Nice place with spectacular views.

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Nice view and parking nearby.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular lakes for visitors around West Malvern?

Visitors frequently enjoy Summer Hill for its scenic views and picnic opportunities. Gullet Quarry is also very popular for its dramatic scenery, clear turquoise waters, and geological interest, though swimming is not permitted. Earnslaw Pool is appreciated for its secluded, tranquil environment and wildlife.

Are there any lakes suitable for wild swimming near West Malvern?

Yes, 'Escape to the Lake' near Malvern is a dedicated wild swimming retreat that opened in May 2023. It offers a peaceful setting for open water swimming, often combined with wellness activities like yoga and sound baths. Please note that swimming is no longer permitted at Gullet Quarry due to safety concerns.

Which lakes offer good opportunities for wildlife spotting?

Earnslaw Pool is known as a secluded haven for wildlife, offering a tranquil environment for observation. Pirton Pool is another excellent spot, surrounded by fallow parklands where you might see deer roaming amongst ancient cedar trees. Clifton Quarry, with its flooded gravel pits, is a quiet haven for various ducks, waders, and geese, making it ideal for birdwatchers.

Can I go fishing at any lakes in the Malvern area?

Yes, Top Barn Fishery in Holt Heath, near Worcester, is a well-stocked coarse fishing and specimen carp venue. It's open year-round from dawn to dusk, offering opportunities to catch roach, tench, bream, rudd, perch, chub, and carp up to 26lb. You can find more information at visitthemalverns.org.

Are there family-friendly lakes or walks around West Malvern?

Priory Park Pond in Great Malvern is ideal for families, offering leisurely strolls through beautifully landscaped gardens. The Charlie Ballard Nature Reserve also features a small pond and woods, providing a lovely setting for quiet family walks.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the lakes?

The lakes around West Malvern showcase diverse natural features. At Gullet Quarry, you'll see towering cliffs and Precambrian rock formations with clear turquoise waters. Earnslaw Pool is a secluded spot with lush, shaded environments. The Charlie Ballard Nature Reserve features a small pond, alder woods, and a bog, highlighting local flora and fauna.

Are there walking or hiking trails near the lakes around West Malvern?

Yes, many lakes are integrated into the Malvern Hills walking network. For instance, Summer Hill is a great picnic spot on a walk up to Summer Hill. You can find various hiking routes, including easy to moderate options, that pass by or offer views of these lakes. Explore more hiking trails in the area via the Hiking around West Malvern guide.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around West Malvern?

The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and vibrant natural colours. Summer is ideal for picnics and enjoying the outdoor activities, while winter can provide serene, misty views, especially at Pirton Pool in the early morning.

Are there any lakes with historical or geological significance?

Absolutely. Gullet Quarry is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, showcasing a cross-section of Precambrian rock formations that make up the core of the Malvern Hills. It exhibits various rock types and evidence of complex earth movements. Earnslaw Pool is also a former quarry, with a history of stone removal dating back to 1836, and is now part of the Malvern Hills Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Can I find cycling routes that pass by lakes in the Malvern area?

Yes, there are gravel biking routes that incorporate some of the scenic areas near the lakes. For example, the 'Gullet Quarry – British Camp Café loop from Little Malvern' offers a challenging ride through the landscape. You can discover more cycling options in the Gravel biking around West Malvern guide.

Are there running trails near the lakes around West Malvern?

Yes, the Malvern Hills area offers several running trails, some of which provide views or pass near the lakes. Routes like the 'Worcestershire Beacon & Crossroad Stone loop from Great Malvern' offer moderate to difficult terrain in the vicinity. For more running options, refer to the Running Trails around West Malvern guide.

Most popular routes around West Malvern

Running Trails around West Malvern

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Still not found your perfect lake around West Malvern? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

LongdonRippleGuarlfordMadresfieldMalvernWellandUpton-Upon-SevernEarl'S CroomeMalvern WellsHanley CastleCastlemortonHoldfastPowickSevern StokeNewlandBerrowBirtsmortonLittle MalvernLeighBransfordCroome D'AbitotKempseyAlfrickRushwickCotheridgeQueenhill

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