Partner Organisation- The Firs, Elgar’s Birthplace

We often feel closest to Elgar when we listen to his music, but to know the world in which he walked is to colour our image of him further. To stand within the four walls of the humble cottage where he was born is to be immersed in a world that Elgar believed already contained music that was there for the taking.

On 2nd June 1857, this early 19th Century Worcestershire cottage was the Birthplace of Edward Elgar.

His father was then an itinerant piano tuner, church organist and amateur violinist. His mother, a farmer’s daughter, who wanted above all things a country life for her children. Three older children had been born to them in Worcester and there would be three more when they returned. Edward was the only child to be born in Broadheath.

“My mother’s wish for a country life prompted father to go to Broadheath…only a hamlet, with a handful of houses, a large clump of fir-trees by the entrance gate of ‘Newbury House’ and a wide stretch of heath known as the ‘Common’. We were always taught to adore Him in the smallest flower that grew, as every flower loves its life. And we were told never to dare destroy what we could not give – that was, the life – ever again”“

Birthplace of Sir Edward Elgar

The birthplace of Sir Edward Elgar is most definitely home to ‘Land of Hope and Glory’. Set in sight of his beloved Malvern Hills, this small family home in the village of Lower Broadheath is the perfect environment for nurturing a creative genius. Perhaps by wandering around the garden over the cottage threshold a spark of inspiration may alight in our welcomed guests.

Eat,shop,stay: Brand new Tea-room with outdoor area within the Visitor Centre (near car park). Elgar memorabilia and music for sale within the Tea-room. Picnic spaces around the Visitor Centre.

Things to see and do: The Elgar Experience Exhibition, The Birthplace Cottage, Cottage garden and Visitor Centre.

Dogs: Assistance dogs welcome throughout the property. Other dogs are welcome on leads within the visitor centre (except the Tea-room) and the cottage garden, sorry not in birthplace cottage.

the.firs@nationaltrust.org.uk

01905333330