Alfrick 10k Loop – Ice Cream, Views & a Slice of Countryside History

Start your adventure right at the Hop Pickers gate. Head downhill and turn left onto a quiet track just past the “Private No Through Road” sign. This peaceful path winds through fields and woodlands, crossing over the old dismantled railway line three times - a nostalgic nod to when trains brought hop-picking families from the Black Country here each summer.

At the end of the track, turn left onto Hill Road, a quiet country lane that feels worlds away from modern life. Just before you reach the Knightwick road, look for a wooden gate on your left - this is where your true countryside ramble begins.

Walk past a large pond, up a short rise, and weave through hedgerows, over little footbridges and into open fields. Depending on the season, you might follow a visible path through crops or gently skirt the edge of the field.

Eventually, the path joins a country lane that’s part of the Geopark Way - a nationally recognised trail through the Abberley and Malvern Hills Geopark, celebrated for its unique blend of geology, history and natural beauty.

After a gentle hill climb and passing a small cluster of houses known as Dingle End, take the footpath on the right. It leads you directly across the road from Alfrick Village Shop, the perfect mid-walk stop for a refreshing ice cream or cold drink. Sit outside with a treat in hand, soaking up the sunshine and simple joy of village life.

As The Times put it, there’s something special about this stretch of Worcestershire countryside - a “riot of spring flowers and wildlife,” watched over by ancient trees, babbling brooks and the quietly magnificent Malvern Hills on the horizon.

Refreshed, head back out of the shop, turn right, and make your way to the war memorial. Turn left onto Folly Road and look for a footpath on the right between two houses. This path takes you through wildflower meadows, past a peaceful pond and over a shallow stream - perfect for young explorers and four-legged friends.

Climb gently back into open fields, passing a majestic oak tree, and drop into the shaded tranquility of Hayley Dingle, a wooded dell carved through soft sandstone. Cross a wooden bridge, amble past grazing horses, and head towards Greathouse Farm with the Malverns ever-present in the distance.

This walk has it all - easy navigation, varied scenery, a dash of local history and that all-important mid-walk treat. It feels like a real journey yet starts and ends right at your doorstep.

Perfect for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a true taste of the British countryside - with a little adventure and a lot of heart.

• Distance: Approx. 10km (6.2 miles)

• Difficulty: Moderate (some inclines, mixed terrain)

• Dog-friendly: Yes (please keep dogs on leads near livestock)

• Refreshments: Alfrick Village Shop (check seasonal opening times)

Each of our cottages includes a laminated guide of this walk (map included!) - just ask if you'd like help finding the start point or choosing an adventure to suit you.