Six Things to do with your Elderly Parents in Great Malvern, Worcestershire

Whether your elderly parents are receiving care at home, living independently or live-in care in Worcestershire, it is likely that they will appreciate some fun days out. If they are living with dementia, they will probably welcome activities that offer a chance to reminisce about the past or to visit settings that include some sensory stimulation.

Here is a selection of days out to enjoy in Great Malvern and the surrounding area.

Malvern Museum of Local History

This museum may be small, but it is packed with exhibits that take the visitor on a journey through the rich history of this region. If your parents are interested in local history, they will be able to explore the Medieval period, discover more about the town’s renowned water cure, learn more about Malvern in Victorian times and the 20th century. There’s also a beehive to observe. The admission price includes an audio guide, which is a fabulous way to get immersed in the experience.

Eastnor Castle

Eastnor Castle is nestled in the lush Malvern Hills. It is set in 500 acres of parkland and easily accessible by car from Great Malvern. This historic residence is full of treasures, from Medieval armour to fine art. The grounds are worth a visit in their own right and include an arboretum and a lake, set within gardens crossed by trails and walks. Wheelchair users should note that some of the paths are steep and laid with gravel, as is the car park.

Please note that while there are some steps to reach the State Rooms, there is an automatic wheelchair stair climber for older or disabled visitors available. There is also a lift up to the first floor. The tea room has wheelchair access and serves a variety of food and drink. Or relax on one of the many benches dotted throughout the grounds; ideal if your elderly relative might enjoy a picnic while watching the world go by with their at-home carer. The castle is open on certain days between Easter and September, so visit the castle website for more information.

Spetchley Park Gardens

If your elderly parents enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, then think about taking them to Spetchley Park Gardens. This is a lovely historic garden, enclosed by ancient parklands and lakes in the midst of the picturesqueWorcestershire countryside. The setting is a real oasis of calm, and there is a tea room on site, serving delicious afternoon teas and other light snacks.

Little Malvern Court

Little Malvern Court has been home to the Berington family since the 1539 Dissolution of the Monasteries. It is split into two distinct zones: the remains of a 14th Century Prior’s Hall and a manor house added in the Victorian era.

If your parents are receiving companion care, this is a great place for them to visit with their carer to admire fine examples of European art and furniture, and a well-curated collection of needlework from the 18th and 19th centuries. The grounds around the house stretch for 10 acres, with sweeping views in all directions. The fragrant gardens are full of roses, spring flowers and trees. It almost feels as you have taken a step back into the past here, and is an atmospheric and calming place to visit with your elderly parents.

Greyfriars’ House and Garden

Greyfriars was constructed by a merchant in 1480 and home to a succession of well-to-do families up until the 17th century. In 1699, a baker bought it and split the house; and for the next two hundred years, it housed a variety of businesses, shops and homes. Over the centuries, further buildings, including 10 cottages, were added. Since 1966, Greyfriars has been under the care of the National Trust.

The Greyfriars’ gardens are open to visitors all year round. This is an enchanting place in which to witness the passing of the seasons and the beauty of its natural setting. There are plenty of places to sit and admire the planting schemes, and there are also some simple garden games to play. The garden offers a sensory experience, perfect for those visiting with elderly parents who may be receiving dementia care. There is no designated car park, but there are car parks nearby at St Martin’s Gate and Corn Market.

West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park

Slightly further afield, but worth a visit is the West Midland Safari and Leisure Park. If your parents have always enjoyed a day out visiting wildlife, this is a great place to take them. You can drive through an open safari setting, where you will be able to see African white rhino, elephants, zebra and ostriches. There is a Wild Asia area, with buffalo and deer and another full of the large carnivores including tigers, cheetah and lions.