Worcester, With Love: A Bike Bus Volunteer's Guide
We reached out to Worcester’s Bike Bus volunteers, the folks who really know this city and asked them about their go-to places, the hidden gems they always recommend to friends. This guide is a result of their collective wisdom and local expertise. You could easily spend your time in Worcester hitting the main tourist attractions, and there's plenty to see, but we want to let you in on a few secrets.
So without further ado…
A special mention
Fred’s: Bike Worcester’s spiritual home
Fred’s in the Tything serves as Bike Worcester volunteers' spiritual home and erstwhile HQ.
Our bike bus volunteers meet here after each Friday bus and discuss whatever comes to mind, while enjoying delicious coffee and various breakfasty snacks. The friendly staff tolerate us as we take over the front half of the cafe for an hour or so. A must on every bike busser's list.
Some of Worcester's Best Bites
Worcester's eateries are a delightful fusion of flavours, offering everything from traditional fare to innovative cuisine. Our guides have a few firm favourites, you know, the places they actually go:
For an authentic taste of Greece, Tanya from Red Hill Bike Bus recommends Sweet Greeks, a family-run gem with great quality food and coffee. Al, also from Red Hill Bike Bus, raves about Little Bento Box, where the plant-based sushi is a work of art, bursting with freshness and flavour – he loves this place!
“So authentically Greek, run by Greek brothers. You can grab a coffee and an amazing sweet or savoury pastry or stay for the breakfast or lunch. Great quality food and coffee.”
If you're looking for a friendly atmosphere and vegan-friendly options, Leisa (Red Hill Bike Bus) and Lars (St. George's RC Bike Bus) suggest Good Roots, a local cafe conveniently located near the city's scenic river and canal. Wilf from the Oldbury Park Bike Bus, highlights Island, a great spot for Greek food with a brilliant host.
Hannah C from St. George's CE Bike Bus, recommends Aurora for delicious Indian food. For those wanting to dine while people-watching, Hannah FW from NWPA Bike Bus, suggests Thai Gallery.
Daytime & Evening Drinks
Whether you're seeking a caffeine fix or a relaxing evening drink, Worcester offers a variety of inviting settings. Bike Bus volunteers have you covered for both!
During the day, you can find Tanya, Leisa, and Lars at Good Roots, enjoying the great coffee and friendly staff. Al suggests Method, a quirky spot under the arches, while Wilf prefers Francini's for the best coffee in town, accompanied by great music and art. If you prefer a view, Hannah C recommends the Diglis Hotel and Hannah FW recommends The Anchor in Diglis, both with lovely settings. For a tucked-away treat, Lars recommends Guilt Trip Worcester for coffee and doughnuts.
“Best coffee in town; great background music; wacky art & stuff; friendly staff”
As evening descends, Tanya recommends Firefly for its unusual drinks and a great atmosphere, while Al and Leisa suggest the Cosy Club, especially its balcony when the weather is fine. Wilf and Isa favor The Dragon Inn for its brilliant beer and friendly, conversational vibe. Hannah C and Lars enjoy The Paul Pry, a proper traditional pub with a slightly younger crowd, and Hannah FW also recommends The Olive Branch for alcohol-free cocktails and tapas.
Exploring Worcester
Beyond the city's well-known landmarks lies a wealth of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. These are the places our guides tell their friends about, the ones that really give you a feel for the city.
“I love the walk/cycle down that side of the river....spotting a heron or a cormorant. If you’re heading towards the bridge you could also pop up to Guilt Trip for a coffee and a (vegan) doughnut.”
Tanya invites you to explore The Arches and the Hive, a taste of things to come and to see what Worcester is becoming: a cool, creative place, while Al recommends Fort Royal Hill for the best views and a dose of history. Leisa suggests a scenic walk or cycle along the Weirside of the River Severn – it's gorgeous, honestly, and you might spot a heron! Wilf and Lars encourage a visit to the Cathedral (and a peek at the nesting peregrine falcons – how cool is that?!). Hannah C highlights The Infirmary Museum, and Isa recommends The Bevere Gallery. Finally, Hannah FW thinks The Hive Archives deserves a visit, and Lars suggests South Quay Fountains.
Favorite Relaxing Spots
When it's time to unwind, Worcester offers a variety of tranquil spaces. Tanya and Lars recommend a peaceful walk along the river, where there’s always something to see. Al suggests the serene Gheluvelt Park, while Leisa enjoys relaxing in Battenhall Park, under one of the great oaks. Wilf recommends a circular walk or cycle along the riverside. Hannah C finds calm in the garden of Greyfriars House, while Isa suggests a super peaceful experience on a paddleboard on the river. For lovely nature walks, Hannah FW recommends Worcester Woods Country Park. What's not to love?
“The garden is a little bit of calm in the middle of the city.”
So there we have it. Worcester is ace, and as far as enjoying it is concerned, we hope this guide helps you experience the best of it, whether you're here for the Global Bike Bus Summit or simply exploring our wonderful city. Enjoy your stay!
Our thanks to the Bike Buses volunteers who took the time to share their favourite spots:
Tanya, Al, and Leisa at Red Hill Bike Bus.
Wilf at Oldbury Park Bike Bus.
Hannah C at St. George's CE Bike Bus
Hannah FW at NWPA Bike Bus
Isa and Lars at St. George's RC Bike Bus.
Did we miss out one of your favourite places? Tell us all about it in the comments below!
