Black Hill

Black Hill is one of the several peaks in the Malvern Hills range located in Worcestershire, England. It is also the highest point on the Worcestershire Beacon, standing at an elevation of 1,109 feet (338 meters). The Malvern Hills are known for their outstanding natural beauty, and Black Hill is no exception. Its summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Geology and Formation

The Malvern Hills are a range of hills formed by geological forces over 600 million years ago. Black Hill is primarily composed of igneous rocks, such as diorite, granite, and syenite, which were intruded into the surrounding sedimentary rocks during the Precambrian era. The unique geology of the Malvern Hills has made them an important site for scientific research, particularly in the fields of geology and archaeology.

Walking Trails

Black Hill is a popular destination for walkers and hikers, with several walking trails leading up to its summit. The most common route is the Worcestershire Beacon Walk, which is a circular walk starting at the British Camp car park and covers a distance of approximately 5 miles (8 km). The trail passes through several beautiful scenic spots, including the Iron Age hillfort of British Camp and the Wyche Cutting, a narrow pass through the Malvern Hills.

Wildlife

The Malvern Hills are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several rare and protected species. Black Hill is no exception, with a variety of flora and fauna found on its slopes. Some of the notable species include the small blue butterfly, the common lizard, and the adder snake. The Malvern Hills Conservators, who manage the Malvern Hills, have implemented several measures to protect the natural environment and ensure that the wildlife is not disturbed.

Accessibility

Black Hill is easily accessible by car or public transport. There are several car parks located at the foot of the Malvern Hills, including the British Camp car park, which is the starting point for the Worcestershire Beacon Walk. The nearest train station is Great Malvern, which is served by trains from London Paddington, Birmingham, and Hereford. There are also several bus services that connect the Malvern Hills to nearby towns and villages.

Black Hill is a beautiful peak located in the Malvern Hills range, offering stunning views, unique geology, and a diverse range of wildlife. It is a popular destination for walkers and hikers and is easily accessible by car or public transport. If you are looking for a peaceful and scenic place to explore in Worcestershire, Black Hill is definitely worth a visit.

Black Hill is in Malvern Hills AONB, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Created: 21  June  2021  Edited: 29  November  2023