The Firs (Elgar's Birthplace)

The Firs is the small cottage in Lower Broadheath, about 4 miles from Worcester, where Sir Edward Elgar was born in 1857, the composer of the Enigma Variations, Nimrod and Land of Hope and Glory. He kept a lifelong affection for the place, later styling himself Edward Elgar of Broadheath, and the house stands in sight of his beloved Malvern Hills. The cottage itself is compact, so the National Trust's visitor centre next door fills in the story with his belongings, photographs, film and interactive displays, including the composer's own piano, alongside a piano anyone is free to play. Outside, a cottage garden leads to an orchard, woodland with bug hotels and a Sound Garden for children, and Little Al's cafe can be used without paying admission. An easy 2-mile circular walk across the fields of Elgar country starts at the visitor centre. Reviewers praise the well-informed volunteers and friendly staff. One tip from regular visitors: the car park is small but free. Dogs on leads are welcome everywhere except inside the cottage and cafe.