This press release was first issued on the 6th June 2026
The grant, awarded through Malvern Hills District Council, was secured with the help of Manda Graham of the Friends of the Brewers committee, and will be used to enhance the biodiversity of the pub’s existing wildlife garden. Work is already under way: digging for a pond has begun, two birdbaths are in place, and new nest boxes are due to be installed, with further improvements planned.
The Brewers Arms has a remarkable recent history. When the pub closed and came up for sale, local residents acted swiftly: 437 people joined together to raise more than £400,000 through a community share scheme, and the pub was purchased in September 2022. It reopened on 10 December 2022 and has been run under community ownership ever since, with tenants Lee and Kim at the helm. The pub has undergone further restoration since, including recent work to expose its original Malvern stone facade.
The pub is widely regarded for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, home-cooked food, and strong selection of local ales and ciders — as well as its spectacular views.
“The wildlife garden is a real asset for the pub and the whole community. Continuing to invest in it improves the atmosphere here for our visitors and does something genuinely worthwhile for local wildlife — something we know matters deeply to people in West Malvern.”
Brian O’Connell, chairman, Brewers Arms Community Committee
“The Brewers Arms is exactly the kind of community-led initiative that makes West Malvern so special. I’m delighted that this grant will help protect and enrich local wildlife right in the heart of the village. The pub has been a cause I’ve championed from the start and it’s wonderful to see it going from strength to strength.”
Councillor Natalie McVey, Malvern Hills District Councillor for West Ward