Yes, Worcestershire sauce is made here. But ‘The Woo’ has plenty of history too, plus spectacular scenery courtesy of the Cotswolds and Malvern Hills.
Worcester is a small, vibrant city with options for everyone. You can easily walk or cycle from campus into town. The city itself has a variety of areas, [with] an old quarter with lots of tucked away pubs and shops, and a newer area with high street shopping and a couple of small shopping malls. People are generally friendly. The city has a good rugby team, and often hosts some great cricket matches. There’s an arena, a horse racing track, and the River Severn runs through the city if you fancy rowing. A lot of the bars have live music, and if you're in the city over Christmas there’s a good Christmas market (which gets very busy). (Second year student, University of Worcester)
What Worcester's famous for...
Worcestershire sauce
The original Worcestershire sauce, Lea and Perrins' tangy aroma has been dotting the air around its Midland Road factory for over 120 years.
Worcester nightlife, according to students
Because it’s small, you can walk from pub to pub, through Friar Street and New Street. [There are] some really historic and quirky pubs, as well as modern wine bars. Tonic Bar is great for gin, craft beer, and cocktails. (Second year student, University of Worcester)
Worcester Cathedral
The Cathedral Church of Christ and the Blessed Mary the Virgin of Worcester – or ‘Worcester Cathedral’ for short – sits majestically beside the River Severn.
Worcester nightlife, according to students
All of the nightclubs are in the city centre, a ten-minute walk for students living in St Johns, or five minutes from city centre accommodation. Worcester isn’t renowned for its nightlife, however there are some decent places. Many students go to Tramps [which hosts] student socials on Wednesday nights, and Sin and Bush at weekends. (Second year student, University of Worcester)
Cricket
Even if you’re not a diehard fan, catching a game at New Road ground, with the cathedral peeking in the background, is a Worcester bucket list item worth ticking off.
Student life in Worcester
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Low on cash
House of Coffee is cheap and cosy. They have delicious coffee and food, whether you want to enjoy it inside, or outside with a view of Worcester Cathedral and its square. (University of Worcester student)
Treat yourself
HANBAO is an incredible burger restaurant. They have all sorts of weird and wonderful creations [like] mac and cheese toppings. (Second year student, University of Worcester)
Friday night out
Head to Sin to take advantage of their drink offers. Then head to Bushwackers for an unforgettable night spread over two floors. (Second year student, University of Worcester)
Sunday chilling
The river running through the centre of Worcester is nice to walk around. The Malvern Hills are a short drive from the university and provide absolutely stunning views – after a long hike up the mountains! (Second year student, University of Worcester)
When family visit
I would take them to Wayland's Yard [for coffee]. For sure we would have to climb the cathedral tower, I [have done it] twice, and loved it so much! (University of Worcester student)
Feeling cultural
The Infirmary Museum on City Campus is interesting, as a lot of people don’t realise the campus was actually once a working hospital! (Third year student, University of Worcester)
Catch up with mates
One of the quirkiest places in Worcester is The King Charles. Famous for their pies, they also have board games. (Second year student, University of Worcester)
Worcester in pictures
Sabrina Footbridge
The view from the Sabrina Footbridge. I think every student at the University of Worcester has a photo similar to this. It’ll always be the image that reminds me of my time in Worcester. It’s nice to see people stop and admire the view, just like I do! (Jess, third year student at University of Worcester)
Living in Worcester, according to students
St John's – all houses are within walking distance of the majority of lectures. Prices will vary house to house, but most are for around four or five people and have gardens. The area is where most students live. There are lots of families, so it's a pleasant area. A short 15-20 minute walk into town over the river is really nice on days with good weather; however, there are buses into town. The area can get busy during the school run due to a number of primary schools in the area. All clubs and bars, with the exception of some small pubs, are located in town which does mean either a taxi or walking after a night out. Although living in town can be fun, St John's is overall a lot more practical and more relaxed. (Third year student, University of Worcester)
Architecture
[There are] beautiful buildings all over Worcester, creating the best atmosphere. (Michaela Capalova, University of Worcester student)
Malvern Hills
The top of the Malvern Hills. Always a fun escape, with amazing views across back to Worcester. A great day out, and a slightly easier way of keeping fit with friends. (Sarah, third year student at University of Worcester)
Birds of prey stall
The owls at the charity stall in town are there every week, and you can pet [them] for a small donation. This one was always my favourite. (Sarah, third year student at University of Worcester)
Living in Worcester, according to students
City centre – I like where I live as it’s very central. I’m right next to the train station (I can hear the trains pass at night which can be annoying). I’m right next door to the City Campus. The main campus takes about 20 to 25 minutes to walk to. We’ve got a rooftop to go and sit, with grass and plants. I would definitely choose to live here again. (Third year student, University of Worcester)
Living in Worcester
Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.
Where you'll find students
- Arboretum
- St John's
- City centre
Local transport
- Annual ticket = £310
- Severn Card Student Buss Pass
- Bus
Student money tips
The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.
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