Solo Travellers

Sign up to our newsletter below

 

This message will not appear again for another 24 hours
Cotswolds
Forest Of Dean
Herefordshire
View all
Cotswolds
North Cotswolds
Bourton-on-the-Water
Broadway
Burford
Charlbury
Chipping Campden
Chipping Norton
Nr Oxford
Nr Worcester
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stratford-upon-Avon
Winchcombe
Alcester
Alderton
Aldsworth
Aston Magna
Bidford-on-Avon
Blockley
Bourton-on-the-Hill
Bourton-on-the-water
Bretforton
Broad Campden
Broadway
Broadwell, Stow-on-the-Wold
Burford
Charlbury
Chipping Campden
Claverdon
Cold Aston
Crawley
Ebrington
Gotherington
Great Rollright
Great Tew
Great Wolford
Hailes
Kingham
Little Langley
Longborough
Lower Slaughter
Lower Swell, Stow-on-the-Wold
Mickleton
Minster Lovell
Naunton
near Bourton-on-the-Water
Near Broadway
Near Burford
Near Charlbury
Near Oxford
Nether Westcote
Northleach
Ombersley
Paxford
Sandford St Martin
Shipston-on-Stour
Shotteswell
Southam
Stow-on-the-Wold
Stratford-upon-Avon
Temple Guiting
Todenham
Upton Snodsbury
Weston Subedge
Winchcombe
South Cotswolds
Bath
Cheltenham
Cirencester
Cotswold Water Park
Marlborough
Stroud Valleys
Tetbury
Badminton
Batheaston
Cheltenham
Cold Ashton
Coln St Aldwyns
Dyrham
Eastcourt
Elkstone
Euridge
Harescombe
Isis Lake, Cotswold Water Park
Kencot
Kingscote
Lake Pochard, Cotswold Water Park
Lower Mill Estate, Cotswold Water Park
Malmesbury
Marlborough
Meysey Hampton
Minchinhampton
Nailsworth
Near Andoversford
Near Cheltenham
Near Cowley
Near Painswick
Near Stroud
Painswick
Poulton
Slad
Tarlton
Tetbury
Woodmancote
Wotton-Under-Edge
 
View all Cotswolds
Forest Of Dean
Forest of Dean
Chepstow
Lydney, Forest of Dean
Staunton, Forest of Dean
Viney Hill, Forest of Dean
 
View all Forest Of Dean
Herefordshire
Hay-On-Wye
Hay-on-Wye
Ledbury
Kentchurch
Kentchurch
Near Kentchurch
Symonds Yat
Symonds Yat
 
View all Herefordshire
 
Clear Filters
Clear Filters
 

Filters

 

Bedrooms and Bathrooms

 
 
Clear Filters
Clear Filters
 
Home | Guidebooks | Worcester

Your Guide to

Worcester

Worcester Cathedral

“Blending modern culture with exciting history and beautiful natural landscapes”

The beating heart of Worcestershire, the city of Worcester is famous for its sauce, historic cathedral, black and white buildings, and vibrant high street.

While walking the streets you find a little bit of everything, National Trust museums nestled alongside fantastic eateries, modern high street stores and independent boutiques. There is something for all tastes in this diverse city. Visit the beautiful cathedral before taking a walk along the River Severn, dine in historic pubs and enjoy a drink at contemporary cocktail bars.

The city has a rich heritage and while you explore you will find snippets of its past. Worcester porcelain began here, it is the birthplace of composer Edward Elgar, and there are also strong ties to the civil war.

Explore further afield and discover Worcestershire and its range of beautiful country houses and intriguing landscapes as you enjoy your time in this previously overlooked county.

We hope you enjoy your stay in this often overlooked part of the country. To help you plan your days we’ve put together a collection of our favourite experiences, so you can make the most of Worcester and beyond.

Wonderfully Worcester:

Worcester Cathedral
One of the most important cathedrals in the country, Worcester Cathedral sits proudly above the river making it a stunning landmark seen from across the city. Enjoy the beautiful Victorian stained glass, medieval cloisters and spend some quiet time contemplating while here.

Worcester Racecourse
Set alongside the River Severn, Worcester Racecourse has 21 jumping fixtures held from April to October. Races have been taking place here since 1718 and bare-knuckle boxing took place here in 1824. Check the calendar of events as there are also many themed nights on offer from Ladies Day with ABBA tribute bands to rum and reggae evenings.

The Firs: Elgar’s Birthplace (National Trust), Upper Broadheath
This humble cottage, overlooking the Malvern Hills, has a beautifully charming garden. As the birthplace of Sir Edward Elgar the collections here include his personal belongings, photographs and interactive displays. A piano is in the welcome centre for you to play if you are particularly talented. Once you’ve explored indoors, discover the sound garden outside.

Witley Court and Gardens (English Heritage), Great Witley
These beautifully romantic ruins are a pleasure to wander through, enjoying the gardens and scenery. The country house was built in the 17th century but unfortunately burnt down in 1937 leaving these picturesque remains. Take a picnic and spend time in the grounds and enjoy a stroll through the woodlands, outdoor musical instruments, and children’s play area.

Hanbury Hall (National Trust), Droitwich
This 18th century country retreat gives an insight into Georgian life with both beautiful artwork and formal gardens. Paintings by Hames Thornhill depict Georgian society and the gardens have been faithfully recreated for an authentic experience.

Croome Court (National Trust), High Green
This fascinating house began as a home for the Coventry family and has since been through many changes in its history. From a catholic school to RAF base there is a lot to uncover here. Explore both the exhibitions and discover the parkland designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.

Greyfriars House and Garden (National Trust), Worcester
Nestled in the heart of one of the oldest streets in Worcester, this 15th century timber framed house has been the base of a number of different businesses over the years. The house is open by guided tour only, which gives you the opportunity to learn the hidden stories held here. Afterwards, head outside where the English walled garden has Italianate features.

Spetchley Park Estate, Spetchley
Home to one of the biggest collection of peonies, the 30-acre Victorian gardens at Spetchley are a beautiful site to behold. The award-winning gardens showcase primrose, daffodils, roses and magnolia making it a feast for the eyes no matter when you visit. Events take place throughout the year, from talks and walks to outdoor cinema screenings and live performances.

Connect with Culture:

Morgan Factory, Malvern
Discover the inside story of a Morgan car by joining a factory tour. You are told the history of the Morgan brand before seeing each stage of the hand-made manufacturing process. Once you’ve seen the inside, experience a Morgan to the full by hiring one for yourself for a weekend, or enjoy a drive through the Malvern hills with a knowledgeable guide.

Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove
This unusual open-air museum is a collection of 30 different buildings which have been rescued and then rebuilt. The buildings on display include a medieval town house and 19th century windmill. Explore the wildflower meadow and orchard before having tea and cake at the tearoom.

Museum of Royal Worcester, Worcester
Telling the story of Worcester porcelain, the museum displays collections at the site where it was produced from 1751 to 2008. Amongst the displays are Lord Nelson’s teapot and you will discover the history of the artists and workers who crafted each object. Make a day of it and book in to paint pottery during your visit.

The Tudor House Museum, Worcester
Dating back to 1520, the Tudor house is a beautiful example of historic architecture. With a jettied first floor and embossed ceiling inside it has been home to carpenters and bakers over the years. Bought by a member of the Cadbury family in the 1900s, it has been restored so you can see this slice of history sitting in a now modern city.

Great Malvern Priory, Malvern
This beautiful church has over 1000 years of history within its walls. There is a beautiful collection of stained glass and also the largest collection of mediaeval floor and wall tiles. Events fill the year with choir concerts and organ recitals.

The Commandery, Worcester
The Commandery was a Royalist Civil War headquarters, amongst many other guises during its history. Today you can experience what life was like for the soldiers during this time and meet the re-enactors that bring it to life. In the walled garden you can relax on one of the audio benches and hear even more about the history of Worcester.

Swan Theatre, Worcester
The Swan Theatre is the only professional theatre in Worcester showing live performances and supporting emerging artists. Visit the website before your visit to see if there are any shows you want to get tickets for.

Wine and Dine:

Astley Vineyard, Stourport-on-Severn
Perfect for: wine tasting, vineyard tours
The family run Astley Vineyard in the Severn Valley has a focus on white wines and during a tour you have the chance to sample three of their award-winning varieties. Wander amongst the vines and learn all about the wine making process. Self-guided tours are also available for a peaceful afternoon.

The Inn at Welland
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, Sunday lunch
This multi-award-winning country inn has wonderful views of the Malvern Hills, it’s a great place to stop off after a morning spent hiking. Many of their ingredients come from the kitchen garden and the head chef prioritises the use of the best, in-season produce available.

Black and Green, Barnt Green
Perfect for: fine dining, tasting menus
Take a seat at this 16-seater restaurant for a menu of classic European dishes made using the finest local ingredients. You are served in the heart of the kitchen making this an intimate but relaxed experience. The restaurant can be booked for private dining, and you can also have the Black and Green dining experience at home as well.

Casa Med Tapas, Bromsgrove
Perfect for: small dishes, cocktails, takeaway
Gather friends and family for a selection of tapas shared with jugs of sangria at this fantastic Spanish restaurant. The extensive menu covers meat, fish and vegetable dishes and there is a large selection of cocktails to accompany your meal.

Island, Worcester
Perfect for: Greek dishes, dinner
Well-known for its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere, Island serves authentic Greek meals. With fresh fish and classic Greek dishes on the menu the aim here is to make food that really sings.

Anupam, Great Malvern
Perfect for: dinner, cocktails, vegan, takeaway
Indian fine dining taking inspiration from across the region to make delicious, rich dishes. Relax and enjoy a feast of both amazing flavours and aromas and don’t worry about rushing, everything is very relaxed here.

The Venture In, Ombersley
Perfect for: lunch, dinner
Working with local suppliers, at The Venture In you get a real taste of Worcestershire. Meats, fish and vegetables are smoked in-house and breads are baked fresh daily. There is a real focus on serving the best quality food possible and there are also daily specials.

Ye Olde Anchor Inn, Upton-on-Severn
Perfect for: lunch, dinner, drinks
Stop off for sandwiches and a drink at this timber framed black and white pub. There is a Sunday roast menu and also regular steak nights and quiz nights. If required, the Oak Room can be hired for private functions.

The Robin Hood, Droitwich
Perfect for: brunch, lunch, dinner
Perfect for a meal after a visit to nearby Hanbury Hall, this country pub dates back to Victorian times when salt workers would visit for drinks at the end of their busy days. The menu features both pub classics and lighter bites and there is a well-stocked bar.

The Boathouse, Upton-on-Severn
Perfect for: breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, drinks, riverside dining
A tapas and wine bar with a gin and cocktail bar on the edge of the River Severn. Choose from a range of small dishes while enjoying the view. Live music events are held on Fridays and at weekends for added entertainment while you dine.

Cottage in the Wood, Malvern
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, tasting menu
The stunning views from this restaurant and bar have to be seen to be believed. The covered terrace is a wonderful place to slowly sip a glass of wine as you watch the scenery before you. Pop in for lunch after a walk, afternoon tea or a hearty evening meal.

Maneki Ramen, Worcester
Perfect for: breakfast, lunch
Winner of Japanese restaurant of the year 2023, what started as a noodle bar pop-up has evolved into a fully-fledged Japanese restaurant. Set underneath a railway arch, this quirky spot has a classic offering of Japanese dishes with ramen, larger plates and both traditional spirits and house sake.

Toast, Flyford Flavell
Perfect for: breakfast, brunch
This family-run restaurant just outside Worcester is the place to go for breakfast and brunch. With a log fire in winter and an al fresco dining area in summer you can linger over wonderful meals so you start your day off right.

Worcestershire Wanderers:

Harvington Hall, Kidderminster
This beautiful Elizabethan manor house, surrounded by a moat, is set within Worcestershire countryside outside Kidderminster. One of its most unusual features is the number of priest holes you will find within! During your visit see if you can spot all seven, including some remarkably ingenious designs.

Hartlebury Castle, Stourport-on-Severn
Hartlebury Castle was home for the bishops of Worcester from 855 to 2007. This heritage gives the castle an exciting history as three bishops became saints, two were burned at the stake and one became the pope that refused Henry VIII his divorce. Visit the grand state rooms, library, county museum and finally, the gardens.

Malvern Hills and Bredon Hill
To the west of Worcestershire lie the Malvern Hills. Walking the Malverns is a beautiful experience with far-reaching views to both sides. The entire length of the Malverns is a 9.3 mile, five hour walk but it can be enjoyed along shorter trails. To the east, Bredon Hill is topped with an Iron Age hillfort at its summit. There are a number of different routes to follow.

Wyre Forest
Visit the largest woodland nature reserve in the country and get lost amongst the trees. There is a Go Ape course, on-site café and trails to follow for everybody including walkers, cyclists, runners and horse riders. If you have limited mobility you can still join the fun and hire an off-road mobility scooter.

Bodenham Arboretum, Wolverley
Wander amongst over 3000 species of trees passing Acers, North American Oaks, and Alders. There are 15 pools and bridges along the routes which range from half a mile to two miles. Dine at the on-site restaurant or join one of the later Thursday dining evenings for a larger meal.

Ultimate Days Out for the Family:

West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley
Spend a day with the animals at West Midlands Safari Park. Follow the drive-through safari spotting lions, giraffes, tigers and more before exploring the walk-through areas. There are rides, restaurants and play parks on site as well to keep the whole family happy and entertained.

Simply Alpaca, Flyford Flavell
Get up close to these adorable animals and learn everything there is to know. There are a variety of different experiences available including a 30-minute meet and greet where you spend time in the paddock feeding these friendly creatures. For a surprisingly different experience, book to go on an alpaca trek and join the herd as you lead your furry friend for the day around the farm.

Cadbury World, Birmingham
Get to know the delicious ins and outs of chocolate making, with tasters along the way! From discovering the origins of the cocoa bean to having a go at decorating, Cadbury World is not to be missed by those with a sweet tooth.

Aztec Adventure, Evesham, Wychbold
There are Aztec Adventure parks across Worcestershire with so much on offer. Climbing walls, boat hire, adventure gold, high rope adventure course, an aqua park and open water swimming. Check each location to see what is on offer before visiting for an exciting day out.

Severn Valley Railway
This award-winning heritage railway covers 16-miles of countryside. Enjoy a relaxing steam train journey passing through towns and villages. Check the calendar of events and stop off at The Engine House visitor centre at Highley station to see some special trains, the travelling post office, café, gift shop and play area.

Attwell Farm Park, Redditch
A treasure trove for children, Attwell Farm Park has over 80 species of animals, from the cute and cuddly to eight-legged creepy crawlies. Get to know the friendlier animals at the petting zoo and there are both indoor and outdoor play areas for all ages. Take your own picnic or you can visit the coffee shop and kitchen on site.

Relax and Revive:

The Malvern Spa, Malvern
This luxurious spa has a host of facilities to suit all tastes and needs so you can relax and restore yourself. From steam rooms to saunas, a salt grotto and a foot spa there are all types of therapies available. Book a treatment to truly melt away with a choice of massages, facials, or a beauty treatment so you leave feeling your best.

The Greenhouse Spa at The Elms, Abberley
The Greenhouse Spa is a stunning escape, filled with the beauty of nature. A range of spa day experiences are on offer which include treatments, brunch, and use of the fabulous facilities. Spend time moving between the indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and experience shower. A range of treatments are available during your spa visit including custom massages suited to your needs.

Malvern View Spa, Bransford
With beautiful views of the Malvern Hills from the gardens, this spa has an indoor swimming pool, thermal suite with a jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and experience shower. A menu of treatments is available and there is a state-of-the-art fitness studio so you can make the most of your time here.

The Abbey Hotel, Redditch
Book a spa day at the Abbey Hotel and spend time in the pool, relaxing in the hot tub, and enjoying a treatment of your choice. A range of massages, facials and more are available for you to book and afterwards stay for afternoon tea for a truly lavish experience.

Download Guidebook

Subscribe below and download the guidebook today.

 

Please Note: Information correct at time of publishing. Please check the destination/attraction direct website before visiting to confirm opening hours and visitor details.

This website uses cookies
This site uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience. We use necessary cookies to make sure that our website works. We’d also like to set analytics cookies that help us make improvements by measuring how you use the site. By clicking “Allow All”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyse site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.
These cookies are required for basic functionalities such as accessing secure areas of the website, remembering previous actions and facilitating the proper display of the website. Necessary cookies are often exempt from requiring user consent as they do not collect personal data and are crucial for the website to perform its core functions.
A “preferences” cookie is used to remember user preferences and settings on a website. These cookies enhance the user experience by allowing the website to remember choices such as language preferences, font size, layout customization, and other similar settings. Preference cookies are not strictly necessary for the basic functioning of the website but contribute to a more personalised and convenient browsing experience for users.
A “statistics” cookie typically refers to cookies that are used to collect anonymous data about how visitors interact with a website. These cookies help website owners understand how users navigate their site, which pages are most frequently visited, how long users spend on each page, and similar metrics. The data collected by statistics cookies is aggregated and anonymized, meaning it does not contain personally identifiable information (PII).
Marketing cookies are used to track user behaviour across websites, allowing advertisers to deliver targeted advertisements based on the user’s interests and preferences. These cookies collect data such as browsing history and interactions with ads to create user profiles. While essential for effective online advertising, obtaining user consent is crucial to comply with privacy regulations.