Living And Working In Worcester

Worcester is a cathedral city which is located in the county of Worcestershire in the West Midlands region of England. London is approximately 110 miles away and a direct train service can take you to London in a little over two hours with the nearest airport being only an hour's drive to Birmingham.

Worcester has a long history spanning back to Roman times and around the time of the Industrial Revolution, Worcester became an important place for porcelain manufacturing with the Royal Worcester Porcelain Company being one of the most renowned and influential producers. In 1789 the company was granted Royal Warrant by King George The Third , allowing it to use the ‘Royal’ prefix.High quality items such as figurines, dinnerware and vases were in demand and before long The Royal Worcester factory was developing distinctive styles, techniques and intricate artistry which soon became collectable. Unfortunately, as with many long standing and traditional industries, the factory sadly closed in 2009 but the impact Worcester had on porcelain is still celebrated to this day and the history and legacy is showcased in the local Museum of Royal Worcester. Worcester was not as heavily industrialised as many other towns and cities and in addition to porcelain, it had a modest industry in cloth and textiles, ironworks and the printing and publishing of newspapers and other printed materials.

Worcester's successful economy is thriving with a diverse and resilient growth trajectory. Key sectors driving this positive economic outlook include manufacturing and engineering. Worcester continues to benefit from a strong manufacturing base, particularly in advanced engineering and high tech industries, all of which are contributing to local job creation and economic stability. The presence of the University of Worcester and its expanding research facilities are fostering innovation and attracting investment, further enhancing the city’s reputation for education and knowledge based industries. Worcester’s vibrant retail scene and historic attractions are drawing in visitors and thereby boosting local businesses. The city’s rich heritage and cultural events also support a growing tourism sector. Investments in healthcare and life sciences are driving growth with local institutions and businesses contributing to advancements in medical research and services. A strong community of small and medium enterprises are energising the local community, creating a dynamic and innovative business environment.

The above-mentioned University of Worcester has been focused on providing excellent education since 1946 and is first in the UK for sustained employment, further study or both, five years after graduation. Additionally, it was recently placed 1st in the UK for Quality Education in the 2024 Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings.

Worcester is full of hidden gems, medieval heritage sites and there is always something happening.It has some fantastic attractions and visiting Worcester Cathedral is a must. Its stunning medieval architecture, intricate stained glass windows and historical significance make it a highlight of the city. Construction of the cathedral started in the late 11th century and it was consecrated in 1218, making it over 800 years old.

Throughout the year, numerous historical events recognise the rich history that Worcester offers and the city stands testament to its past through various landmarks and cultural heritage sites. Additionally, the town has seen multi million pound improvements which has greatly enhanced its overall appeal.

The city offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Cathedral Plaza in the heart of the city features a mix of high street brands, fashion stores and other retail outlets. There is a retail park, a shopping centre and interesting local markets to browse around. There are many stylish restaurants, cafes and bars - some with beautiful views overlooking the River Severn. You may be interested to note that Worcester sauce does originate from here! Worcester is quieter than many other places once the sun sets but If you like staying out late, you could watch a film at the cinema, experience live music at one of the venues, visit the Casino or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs. The city is home to several old and historic pubs, one even dates back to the fourteenth century!

Worcester is surrounded by picturesque countryside and charming towns. Slightly further afield, the town of Malvern is famous for its spectacular Malvern Hills and the town itself has a Victorian spa heritage. You can also visit the wonderful Malvern Priory which was originally founded as a Benedictine monastery. Evesham is a market town situated on the banks of the River Avon and is known for its historic abbey. Broadway is a pretty village in the Cotswolds and is known for its pretty honey coloured limestone buildings, art galleries and quaint shops.

All of these destinations offer a mix of history, natural beauty and cultural experiences and are a great choice for those seeking a unique blend within a close knit community.

The next event being hosted by the UK Careers Fair will be held on August 22nd between 10am - 2pm. The venue is The Guildhall, WR1 2EY. This magnificent building with a wealth of fascinating history dates back to 1721 and is conveniently situated in the centre of the city.