Worcester is one of the UK’s most historic cities, packed with sites of literary and architectural interest. From the imposing Worcester Cathedral to the well-preserved Commandery museum, visitors of all ages can learn a huge amount about the city’s history during a weekend getaway. Accommodation options for the best places to stay in Worcester vary from simple, self-catering spots to grand country house hotels. Whether you’re visiting as a couple, family or large group, below we have listed a number of great places to rest your head!

Start your visit to Worcester with a trip to its oldest street, where you’ll find the free-to-visit Tudor House Museum. Expertly looked-after by a volunteer group, the building provides a fascinating glimpse of life in 16th-century Worcester. From here, take a stroll through the charming Greyfriars House and Garden. Its walled gardens boast Italianate features, whilst its café serves delicious snacks and drinks. Nearby, Worcester Cathedral situated by the River Severn, also offers an incredible insight into the city’s history. Its architecture styles span four centuries, with its crypts, chapter houses and towers, and it's rich in historical documents. Just outside town Elgar's birthplace museum provides a glimpse into the life of one of England's finest composers. On the edge of the city, Worcester Woods Country Park is a 65 acre stretch of woodland, nature reserves, and open fields, a great place for birdlife.

There's much to pack in to a visit here — so use our guide to the best places to stay in Worcester and organise the perfect getaway.

The Best Places to Stay in Worcester

For a boutique stay

• The delightfully named Cardinal's Hat is an historic pub next to the cathedral, so if you don't like being woken by bells on a Sunday, look away now! Downstairs, an atmospheric wood-panelled bar features a roaring fire and local ales and is popular with locals, while upstairs there are six boutique bedrooms, the best of which feature heavy four-posters and in-room tubs. It's a great hideaway, full of character and centrally located.
• For something more modern, the nearby five room Upstairs at 33 is a modern restoration of an ancient building. Bedrooms feature large sash windows, oversized headboards, exposed beams, and stylish velvet armchairs, in contemporary styling. Downstairs is Fred's, an English deli for breakfast and light meals, while all the main sites are on your doorstep.

For a self catering studio

• The Old Infirmary is another ancient building in the centre of the city, dating from 1745, which in this case has been converted into six self catering studios. Space is generous — each of the six studios has a comfortable sitting area and a small stylish kitchenette — while retaining many original features such as exposed beams and wooden floors. Though short on amenities, it's full of character and offers a good value base in the heart of the city.

Traditional hotels

• In the centre of town, on the banks of the Severn river, is Diglis House Hotel, with 29 rooms that cater to both business and leisure, couples and families. Rooms are spacious and elegantly furnished, with large sash windows, high ceilings, and well chosen antiques. They have an excellent riverside restaurant serving seasonal British fare, as well as a gym and a large garden.
• Further out, if you don't fancy the bustle of the city, and a cut above in terms of luxury, the magnificent Stanbrook Abbey Hotel is a luxury property set in and alongside a Grade II-listed 16th century monastery, featuring stone cloisters and stained glass windows. With its private chapel and standalone five bedroom Georgian manor house, it's a great option for groups or parties. Rooms and suites in the original 19th century Pugin building (attached to the monastery) retain period features, while there's more of a contemporary feel in the adjacent modern block. This is a great country getaway for history lovers. It also offers excellent dining.

For a self catering apartment

• We recommend you contact our partners Booking.com who have self catering accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes.

Travel Information

• Trains from London take just over 2 hours, while there are also good rail connections to Birmingham and beyond. For international air travel, Birmingham Airport is just 35 miles from Worcester. From here, you can connect by train or bus.
• The best time to visit is during the summer, with the average daily temperature climbing to 19°C in July and August. However this is peak season and so you can expect prices to be higher than at other times of the year, though it's hardly ever overcrowded with tourists.
• If you want to hire a car, visit our car rental page.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include our recommendations in Worcestershire.
• Expand even further and check out all the best places to stay in the Cotswolds
• Alternatively, contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.