We'll be staying with my partner's parents in the West Midlands in a couple weeks time. Each visit, I like to learn a bit more about the history of the area. Most recently, I went out to Boscobel House, then read Charles Spencer's book on Charles II escape. This year, I'm considering heading down to Worcester Cathedral. I've read about other sites near the cathedral (Greyfriars, The Commandery) and am not sure whether to include those while I'm there. Anyone have any experience with Worcester and thoughts on how to round out the day for someone who loves history?
Posted by
Lincolnshire, UK
1871 posts
I know its not Worcester, but have you been to the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley? It covers the social history of the area. Over 150 buildings have been rescued from around the area and rebuilt here to recreate a typical Black Country Landscape. You are able to go into the different buildings and there are costumed interpreters. There is a reconstructed street scene with shops, pub and houses, a canal, mine shaft shows what conditions were like in a C19th mine. There are examples of local industry and preserved trams and buses run around the site. You can easily spend a whole day here.
Posted by
OP
Houston, TX
36 posts
Yes, I've been but wouldn't mind returning, especially for the beef tallow chips!
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32828 posts
Worcester Cathedral is a real genuine treat. I love the bells, an exceptionally good ring, the interior is special, and has enough light so that memorials and plaques are readable, quiet and calm, loads of history, the cafe (pre-covid) had good food whenever we went. I particularly like the Cathedral Close with its ancient trees. I'm not such a big fan of putting temporary loos outside, but my last visit was pre-covid so perhaps that has changed.
The Cathedral is well situated. The river and river walk are just behind, the old part of Worcester is just in front. Down the hill is Greyfriars ( it has been so many years I don't have a clear memory of it) and around the corner is the route to Worcester Foregate Street station (if you don't like steps take the alternate route, the station is at the end of a bridge over the road).
In terms of history, I don't suppose you like railway history? And railway signalling history? Say yes and I'll send you to Worcester Shrub Hill station for two unique signals. Victorian factory history? I'd send you to Lea and Perrins Worcestershire Sauce factory.
Good choice, Worcester.
Posted by
OP
Houston, TX
36 posts
Thanks for your help Nigel! I must admit I know absolutely nothing about railway signaling. I'll keep in mind Lea & Perrins. A Victorian factory tour isn't something I'd normally pick, but it seems like it might tell an interesting story.