'Unparalleled views over the Severn Valley' can be seen from this hotel, in extensive grounds high above the Malvern Hills. The refurbished historic house has contemporary public spaces plus a collection of smart bedrooms, some with a patio or small balcony. New this year are two self-catering lodges, one in a converted chapel. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the restaurant frame a rural panorama that stretches to the Cotswolds, a fine backdrop for the short modern menus that might include dishes such as the house special, cottage pie, or katsu-spiced monkfish. A five-course brasserie tasting menu is also available, with a seven-course extravaganza in the 1919 Restaurant Thursday to Saturday. It is 'experience you do not want to miss'. 'Something special.' The Elgar route is close by.