Worcester

A former Roman town, Worcester and its surrounding area has played an important part in British history. In 1265, Simon de Montfort led an uprising against the Crown, before being killed in the Battle of Evesham, whilst King Charles II was defeated by Oliver Cromwell’s forces at the Battle of Worcester during the English Civil War in 1651. Furthermore, the magnificent Worcester Cathedral is the resting place of King John.

Nowadays, Worcester is a fairly vibrant city that serves in large part as a commuter haven from nearby Birmingham – although it also has a growing student population. The range of activities and places to visit in Worcester is always growing, and the city is famous for its First Class county cricket team, its Premiership rugby team (the Worcester Warriors), its Royal Porcelain Factory and, perhaps most famously, as the home of Worcestershire Sauce.

Attractions

Worcester Cathedral, which dates back to Norman times, is one of the country’s most beautiful places of worship, and distinctly dominates the city’s skyline. Worcester is also home to the Commandery Civil War Centre, which charts the history of the English Civil War, and the Royal Worcester Porcelain Works and Museum.

Worcester also enjoys an active sports scene, with the county cricket and rugby teams both prominent in their respective disciplines, as well Pitchcroft, which is one of the oldest racecourses in England.

However, perhaps most appeal lies in the Worcestershire countryside, which lies on the verge of the Cotswolds, the Wye Valley, and the Malvern Hills. The Malverns are in particular famous both for their pure water, which still flows freely from the hillside, and for being the inspiration for Worcester-born Sir Edward Elgar’s masterpiece, the Pomp and Circumstance Marches, which include the anthemic Land of Hope and Glory.

Shopping

The centre of Worcester is pedestrianised and offers the usual range of modern high street stores, although there are some interesting boutiques hidden within the delightful early Tudor architecture of Friar Street and Greyfriars. Any visit to Worcester, though, should include a trip to the Royal Worcester Porcelain Works.

Nightlife and Eating Out

Worcester’s nightlife is characterised by volume and alcohol – undoubtedly a throwback to the city’s Norman roots. There is a high volume of pubs and bars, the pick of the bunch being Bushwhackers. The city also lays claim to several insalubrious nightclubs, which are much of a muchness. If you prefer a quieter, more traditional pint, then head to the Cardinal’s Hat on Friar Street. Slightly out of town, Ombersley and the eccentrically named Wyre Piddle have some scenic pubs, whilst The Fleece in Bretforton is truly a landmark.

Eating-wise, Brown’s, The Glass House, and Ostler’s are arguably the finest that Worcester has to offer, although there is also the standard assortment of pizza parlours, Mexican eateries, curry/balti houses, and Chinese restaurants throughout the city centre.

Tourist Information

Worcester Tourist Information CentreThe GuildhallHigh StreetWorcesterWorcestershire WR1 2EYTel. 01905 726311 / 722480Fax. 01905 722481www.visitworcester.com

Heart of England Tourist BoardWoodsideLarkhill RoadWorcester WR5 2EZTel. 01905 761100Fax. 01905 763450

Airport

Birmingham International Airport is Worcester's nearest, and is only half an hour away by car. It is also accessible by train.