ONE of the most popular landmarks on the Malvern Hills has reopened after a major restoration project.

The Malvern Hills Trust, which owns St Anns' Well, says that the work has brought the Grade II listed building into the 21st century.

The trust, formerly the Malvern Hills Conservators, started the project in late summer 2017 with an extensive programme of renewals and repairs to the structure of the property.

The restoration plans were drawn up by local Architect Matthew Gullick, working closely with Malvern Hills District Council's conservation officers and Historic England, to carefully protect the sensitive historic features of the building.

The works contract was carried out by another local company, Shaun Morris Builders, which carried out the external repairs and restoration works to the roof, rainwater goods, windows and side elevation.

Inside, a full of the café, kitchen and internal facilities has been undertaken, including new electrical, plumbing, drainage and heating systems, and damp-proofing.

Duncan Bridges, the trust's chief executive, said: "St Ann’s Well is a well known feature on the Hills, but had reached a stage where the fabric of the building needed sorting out.

"This project was aimed at restoring and refreshing the historic exterior of the property, while at the same time bringing the internal services of the building into the 21st century.

"We are delighted with the works that have been achieved, which will ensure St Ann’s is fit for purpose for many years to come."

St Ann’s Well has a long history of welcoming visitors to the Hills. The older Well Room was built in 1815 by Lady Emily Foley after water cure pioneer Dr Wilson declared that the spring water could provide health benefits.

It became an important location for those wishing to take the waters, and the Victorian fashion for the water cure brought huge numbers of people, from far and wide, to Malvern and the Hills.

The Octagonal Room was built in 1860 as more and more visitors came up to the well for fresh air and refreshments.

Since then it has become a much-loved place to stop for walkers of all ages.