Are you new to Worcester and keen on finding out what this beautiful and historic city has to offer, besides the obvious pubs, clubs and shops? My colleague Georgie has a lot of experience in the city having lived in Worcestershire for the majority of her 38 years, so here are a few of her ideas as to what there is to do in the city with a few hours to spare.
Built between 1084-1504 and sitting on the banks of the River Severn, the cathedral is well worth a wander around. Entry is free and it’s open every day from 7.30am-6pm.
Enjoy the incredible architecture, the peaceful environment, the royal tombs of King John and Prince Arthur, regular exhibitions and the lovely Cloister Café. For a small charge, you can climb the tower’s 235 steps (weekends and school holidays, Feb-Oct) where spectacular views over the city await.
River Severn
You can’t come to Worcester and not be aware of the River Severn, merrily splitting the city in half. Its banks are perfect for a walk or a bike ride on a nice sunny day, especially if you have time to stop for a drink along the way. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, why not try a river cruise?
Museums and National Trust
The city has a number of museums including The Commandery, The Tudor House Museum, Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum, The Museum of Royal Worcester, The Infirmary (at City campus!) and The George Marshall Medical Museum. There is also a small National Trust property, Greyfriars House and Garden, hidden away right in the middle of town.
Theatres
Both Huntingdon Hall and the Swan Theatre are located in the city centre and host a diverse range of productions. A fan of comedy gigs myself, I have seen comedians such as Rhod Gilbert, Jason Manford and Chris Ramsey at Huntingdon Hall – a quirky little venue within Crowngate Shopping Centre.
Check out this website for information about what’s on. This website also allows you to buy tickets for Worcester’s Historic Ghost Walk. Book on….if you dare!!
Sport
There’s Sixways, the home of the Worcester Warriors, a little way from the city centre…but if you can’t get there, or aren’t a rugby fan, how about cricket or a day at the races?
Worcester County Cricket Ground and Pitchcroft Racecourse are both spitting distance from the University, and often host other events and activities such as charity runs, pop concerts, festivals and circuses.
Annual events
Worcester is well known for its Victorian-themed Christmas Fayre, usually taking place over 4 days at the end of November/early December. There’s a large street market and fairground rides. But be warned – it gets busy!
There is also the Worcester Festival during the latter part of August, which encompasses live music, drama, arts and crafts, exhibitions, horticulture and more.
And don’t forget Worcester’s Beer Fest, mid-August at Pitchcroft Racecourse.
Also to be found in the city:
A number of bowling alleys, two cinemas, a bingo hall, a climbing centre, go-karting and CyberQ Escape Rooms!
For however long you’ll be here, and whatever you do, be sure to make the most of this amazing city.
Worcester Student Life 