With its half-timbered Tudor homes and Georgian architecture, Worcester is a fairy tale vision of historic England. The city offers an idyllic combination of small-town charm and university sophistication.
Surrounded by the rolling Malvern Hills and the Cotswolds, as well as boasting incredible views of the Severn Valley, Worcester’s center brims with riverside cafes and restaurants, boutique shops, museums, and live music events.
Culture and history
Worcester has a fantastic selection of historic places to explore. From 17th-century buildings to beautiful open spaces, there’s something to see whatever the weather.
One of the most famous attractions in Worcestershire is the Tudor architecture of Friar Street and Greyfriars' House and Garden. This National Trust property was famously rescued in 1941 and restored to become a medieval resting spot.
The 18th-century Guildhall is another local treasure and open for visitors to explore and admire its majestic interiors. Close by is the Commandery, a grand half-timbered building transformed into a museum, with entertaining costumed actors explaining local life from times gone by.
With its splendid spire dominating the city landscape, Worcester Cathedral is unavoidable on any trip to the city center. It’s the resting place of the notorious King John and once you’re inside be sure to climb the tower to take in the spectacular views of the surrounding Worcestershire countryside.
Arts and crafts
The city’s proud pottery heritage is on display at the Worcester Porcelain Museum and the Royal Worcester Visitor Centre. Both attractions showcase local ceramics and provide a fascinating insight into their history, with the chance to buy some locally-sourced china to take home with you.
The Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum is another great day out, with interactive displays for all ages. On Crown East Lane, the Elgar Birthplace Museum showcases the city's association with the English classical composer Sir Edward Elgar.
Day trips from Worcester
If you’re renting a car in Worcester, day trips couldn't be more straightforward. Beyond the city lies the rolling Worcestershire landscape. From the city, you can travel over to Wye Valley in the west and the Cotswolds in the south.
With thousands of acres of beautiful countryside, Worcester is the ideal driving base for discovering England’s countryside and trying out activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and hand gliding.
A little farther away, you can visit the buzzing city of Birmingham, with its Cadbury World and the National Sea Life Centre less than an hour away. Conveniently located in central England and with easy links to some of England's biggest cities, Worcester is a fantastic base for exploration – and car rental makes it all possible.