24/11/25 - On the Trail of...... Sir Edward Elgar

Worcestershire's Favourite Son

It's a podcast that provides the inspiration for today's walk. You cannot move in Worcestershire without tripping over Elgar references. Today, I concentrate on his life. I may well come back for one of his works and his final resting place. And maybe his London home.

The Lad Himself

Edward Elgar (1857–1934) was one of Britain’s most celebrated composers, renowned for works such as the "Enigma Variations" and the "Pomp and Circumstance Marches," which helped define the sound of English music in the early twentieth century. Born and raised in the village of Broadheath near Worcester, Elgar’s lifelong connection to Worcestershire profoundly shaped his musical inspiration; the county’s landscapes, particularly the Malvern Hills, featured prominently in his imagination and creative process.

One of the more interesting topics of the podcast is how he felt an outsider to high society throughout his life. Resentment setting in from being forced to use the tradesmen's entrance when accompanying his father on piano tuning exploits. Regardless of the praise he received, along with his wife he constantly petitioned for bigger and better honours. Right up to his knighthood. The Beckhams for the Edwardian Age.

Public transport options dictate that the walking starts at Hallow. 

The Malverns - his inspiration - visible through the early morning mist.

Possible cloud inversion on high?

The Firs, Lower Broadheath

I am aiming for his first home. Now a National Trust property, open at weekends. He didn't have far to go for a pint, a pleasure now denied as the Plough crumbles to the ground.

Dead Pub at the Plough

The Firs - Elgar's Birthplace

St George's Catholic Church

Into the City, across the river and to the Church where Edward succeeded his father as Church organist.

Memorial on the bottom left

Doors open at 10am and there is a good reason for this. There is a gig on. Exploration thwarted at the inner door.

Sure they could live without an inquisitive rambler bursting through the door

The Statue

Words not required

The Cathedral

A prominent venue for performances of his work. He is now honoured with his very own window.

The story of a spirit rising to the lord

More Monuments

I paid (and donated, cheeky chuggers) for a guided tour. Mrs M demanding I spend less time in pubs. I learned plenty about Elgar, King John and Prince Arthur until my allocated 1 hour ran out. A slightly awkward hour, as I was the only punter. Still, that didn't stop my host legging it with the words "you really mustn't miss the crypt" ringing in my ears.

Made sure I got my money's worth

His Worcester Home

2 Cathedral Precincts. The man was practically WFH before WFH annoyed the Daily Mail.

Told you he was everywhere

I may also visit 51 Avonmore Road, West Kensington, London, W14 8RT

The Family Music Shop

At the top of the High Street, knocked down and replaced with an architecturally insignificant H&M.

A glimpse of bloomers through the shop window

And his Pubs

A google search suggests he was a regular of the Lamb and Flag. A more substantiated report showed closer links to the Crown. Here he formed the Glee Club, an early Open Mic night to collaborate, perform and lead recitals to the annoyance of those that wanted to pop in for a quiet pint.

With 2 hours for the next bus, I was never going to miss the opportunity for cask Jaipur at £2.25 a pint.

It was only by being inquisitive that I found that this 'spoons has its very own Elgar room. A fact that I will remember, as this is where the comfy seats are located.

Timed for Cask Club Monday

The man guards the condiments

Walk Details

Distance - 6.25 Miles

Geocaches - 4

Walk Inspiration - Self designed walk, following History West Midlands Podcast