Worcester offers all the benefits of a big city combined with the community spirit and safety of a smaller town. When you want to take a break from study idyllic Worcestershire countryside and the Malvern Hills are within easy reach.

 

Shopping

Students looking at mobile phone outside of restaurant

Worcester is home to a wealth of shops, ranging from high street chains to quirky independent businesses.

Crowngate shopping centre is the heart of Worcester’s shopping district and historic streets branch off into the city centre which features a variety of larger stores and smaller 

You can also explore The Shambles for a range of independent businesses including Pack It In, a zero-waste store, gift shops, and designers.

Dining

The city offers a variety of dining options, suitable for many dietary options and cuisine choices. Whether it’s cosy cafés or lively restaurants, Worcester hosts some great locations for wonderful food and great company.

Be sure to check out Cathedral Square for a great selection of chain restaurants, including Zizzi’s and The Botanist. 

If unique food is more to your taste, explore Friar Street, which has many independent restaurants ranging in cuisines, from Mexican to Thai food.    

 

 

Back of woman's upper body playing arcade basketball with neon yellow light

Activities

If you’re looking for a break away from your studies, want to socialise with friends, or just fancy getting up to something a bit different, Worcester has plenty of activities to be getting involved with.

Get competitive with a round of crazy golf at Mr Mulligan’s, test your skills and patience at the Commandery escape room, or even give axe throwing a go at Axe Junkies.

History

The city is renowned for its captivating history, the Historic Quarter of Worcester spans from the Cathedral, through Friar Street, and on to New Street and the Corn Market. Along this stretch, you will find many buildings steeped in the city’s rich historical past, from the tomb of King John in the Cathedral, to the famous Commandry, which dates back to around 1085.

Today, many of these unique buildings have been repurposed as thriving independent businesses, from an array of vibrant bars and restaurants to independent shops and housing.

Countryside

View on the top of the Malvern Hills on a clear day

Situated in the heart of the countryside, Worcestershire is brimming with various hiking trails and walks, handy for getting some fresh air and exercise. Malvern Hills is located just a 20-minute drive away and includes some breath-taking views of Worcestershire.

Sports

Whether you are interested in sports as a participant or a spectator, Worcester has plenty to offer.

The city is home to Worcestershire County Cricket Club, in its picturesque riverside location on the New Road.

Match nights at the University Arena are a regular fixture in both the social and sporting calendar. The University Arena is home to the Worcester Wolves basketball club and Severn Stars Netball Super League side which are both owned by the University. 

 

 

Transport links

Centrally located with excellent road, rail, and air links Worcester is easy to reach from anywhere in the UK, and the world.

Birmingham, Bristol and Cardiff are all within easy reach, as are Herefordshire, Shropshire, and the Black Country.

The city rail links are excellent and were recently improved by the opening of the new Worcester Parkway station which strengthened connections to Nottingham, Cardiff and London.

You can find out more information on our Find Us pages