The Faithful City: Living in historic Worcester
A charming cathedral city in the West Midlands, Worcester is brimming with things to do, whether exploring its fascinating past or vibrant present. It’s the home of a pivotal period in British history, with an abundance of attractions and picturesque green spaces, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Learn more about The Faithful City in this guide to living in historic Worcester.
Why is Worcester called ‘The Faithful City’?
The nickname dates back to the 17th Century when the city played a pivotal role as a Royalist stronghold in the English Civil War. The war started and ended in Worcester, with the first skirmish at Powick Bridge in 1642 and the culminating Battle of Worcester in 1651. It’s believed that Worcester’s motto, ‘Civitas in Bello et Pace Fidelis,’ meaning ‘a city faithful in peace and war,’ refers to its support of the British monarchy during this tumultuous period, with the phrases remaining on Worcester’s coat of arms to this day.
Things to do in Worcester
Historic landmarks
Worcester is one of England’s oldest cities, with historic architecture and notable landmarks telling the story of its past. The dramatic Worcester Cathedral, with its marvelling mix of English architectural styles, rises from a bank on the River Severn and overlooks the city. Nearby, The Guildhall Worcester is a magnificent Georgian-era building offering a glimpse into the local heritage. Meanwhile, The Commandery, which was The Royalist headquarters during the English Civil War, relays the details of Worcester’s role during this pivotal time in a series of interactive exhibits.
Cultural attractions
There’s even more history and art to delve into at Worcester’s cultural attractions. The city’s museums and galleries preserve its rich heritage, from fine art and historic artefacts at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum to exquisitely crafted ceramics at The Museum of Royal Worcester. Elsewhere, the Tudor House Museum provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of Worcester’s residents during Tudor times.
Outdoor activities in Worcester
Whether you’re an animal lover or adventure seeker, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities in Worcester to enjoy. The city has a wealth of beautiful parks and nature reserves, such as Riverside Park, perfect for walking, picnics and watching wildlife. Further afield, the Malvern Hills offer miles of hiking trails with breathtaking views. Want to go on a family outing? Little Owl Farm Park and West Midlands Safari Park celebrate animals and nature while providing fun-filled experiences for all ages.
Worcester Amenities
Transport links
It’s easy to stay connected in Worcester, whether you’re travelling locally or nationally. In terms of public transport, the city benefits from over 30 bus routes operating in the county. There are also two train stations, Foregate Street Station and Shrub Hill Station, which provide regular services to major destinations like Birmingham and London. Alternatively, it’s easy to get around by car and the nearby M5 connects you to the national motorway network. What’s more, the city is excellent for cycling, with plenty of bike routes connecting you to the countryside and links on the National Cycle Network.
Schools
Worcester has a diverse range of educational institutions, including public and independent schools, catering to children of all ages. For those with young families, there’s a selection of top-rated nurseries, supporting early years education.
Shared Ownership in Worcester
As we’ve detailed above, Worcester’s rich history, cultural attractions and modern amenities make it a desirable place to live in the West Midlands. If you’re intrigued by the idea of buying a home in Worcester, Shared Ownership could be the ideal solution. This government-backed scheme enables you to purchase a share in your home and pay subsidised rent on the remaining share. Interested? Explore Shared Ownership houses in Worcester, including new-build and resale properties.
At Share to Buy, we make your choice easier with a selection of new-build homes across England, available through alternative homeownership schemes such as Shared Ownership. Get your home-buying journey underway using our property portal.