Heart of Worcestershire College celebrates Pride month with a host of activities!
To celebrate Pride Month, student ambassadors at Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) led a range of activities across Redditch, Bromsgrove, and Worcester campuses to bring together a sense of belonging, raising visibility and awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community and starting meaningful conversations.
Students decided on the activities to be hosted to create a welcoming and celebratory environment including; creating Pride banners, co-ordinating a hook-a-duck competition to win home baked cakes, and hosting an open-mic session. There was also face painting, bake sales, and plenty of activities to explore what Pride means to people through artistic expression.
Alongside students, staff, Wellbeing Teams and the Learning Centres, each campus also welcomed a range of external organisations such as WEST/CAMHS, Bromsgrove Library, NHS Sexual health, Police and Crime Commissioner, Redditch Pride, Careers Hub, PCSO, and The Hive whose attendance reflected their strong commitment to supporting and celebrating the local LGBTQIA+ community.
Laura Sankey, Student Experience Coach, said: “Watching and supporting the students in their journey towards this great success of community and inclusion was honestly such a privilege. Being guided by the great minds of our students and being able to add our incredible partnerships into this mix of joy was magical. We cannot wait to make these events bigger and better next year and hope that more people will see our photos and wish they had been there celebrating with us and hope they can join in with us next year.”
Paige Shaw, H&B Student Ambassador, added "Attending the Pride events at HOW College gave me the opportunity to meet new people, connect with others in the LGBTQ+ community. It made me feel welcome, included, and safe at the college.”
HoW College prides itself in having a zero-tolerance policy towards any discrimination to create a welcoming environment where staff and students can feel comfortable. There are LGBTQIA+ clubs where students can be themselves, discuss, and share their voices, as well as regular coffee meetups for all staff to discuss important themes and learn from each other.
For more information about HoW College visit www.howcollege.ac.uk.
Kings School Worcester Triumphs at the National School Theatre Awards for Best Musical!
Worcester Students Secure National Acclaim with 'Best Musical' Win at London Theatre Awards
Worcester’s King's School has received national honour following a landmark victory at the National School Theatre Awards in London.
Local students were awarded the prestigious title of 'Best Musical' for their senior production of Chicago, competing against top-tier institutions from across the country. The accolade stands as a significant recognition of the creative talent, discipline, and high-calibre performing arts training that are being developed within the city.
The achievement highlights Worcester's growing reputation as a hub for young creative talent, a factor that local business and civic leaders view as vital for the long-term vitality of the city's cultural economy.
This national recognition is an outstanding achievement for the students. Securing a major award underscores the depth of creative talent being nurtured right here in Worcester, reinforcing our city's position as a vibrant centre for the arts and a great place for education.
Work in the city continues for the next generation of local performers with the development of Scala, showcasing the tangible pathways to success available through dedication to the arts. The transformation of the historic Angel Place venue into a state-of-the-art creative hub will provide exactly the kind of modern infrastructure needed to retain and showcase this homegrown talent.
The success of the production, which required months of rigorous rehearsal and staff collaboration, reflects the high standards driving Worcester’s educational institutions forward.
Congratulations to all of the staff and students involved.
Learn more about Kings School Worcester by pressing here.
Worcester staple HANBAO reopens fantastic rooftop terrace!
Independent city centre venue HANBO is officially reopening its rooftop terrace this weekend, marking the return of Worcester’s largest rooftop destination, perfectly timed for the hot weather we have been having this summer season.
Located in the heart of the city, the terrace has been designed to offer a relaxed, casual outdoor setting. Operating on a walk-in-only basis, the venue aims to provide a seamless experience for visitors looking to make the most of the warmer weather without the need for advance booking.
To celebrate the reopening weekend, HANBO is introducing exclusive limited-time incentives, including 2-for-1 house spirits and mixers, as well as 2-for-1 Lucky Buddha bottled beer, available this Friday through Sunday.
The venue has also upgraded its service structure to focus on convenience. Guests visiting the terrace can connect directly to the complimentary guest WiFi and scan a QR code at their table to order. Drinks are then served directly to the table, removing the need to queue at a traditional bar area, leaving you more time with friends and family.
While the terrace is currently drinks only, the independent business has confirmed that a brand-new exciting food offering is currently in development and will be introduced to the terrace space in the near future.
Access to the rooftop destination is located via the dedicated gate on Sansome Street, Worcester.
The terrace will be open from 5 PM until late on Fridays, and from 12 PM until late on both Saturdays and Sundays.
To find out more or plan your weekend visit, head to HANBAO | Worcester!
The Dice Box Celebrates End of Exam Season with Half-Price Offer for 18s and Under
Young people across Worcester can celebrate the end of GCSEs and A-Levels with a special half-price offer at The Dice Box board game café this weekend!
The city centre venue, located on The Shambles, is offering all visitors aged 18 and under half-price table time from Friday 26 June until Sunday 28 June. The promotion reduces the usual cost of table time to just £1.25 per person, per hour, giving young people access to the café's library of more than 800 board games.
The offer has been launched to mark the end of the summer exam season, with thousands of students across Worcestershire now finishing their GCSE and A-Level studies and looking forward to a well-earned break.
The Dice Box, which opened in Worcester in 2023, has become a popular destination for families, friends and gaming groups, offering a wide range of games suitable for all ages and experience levels.
As well as its extensive game library, visitors can enjoy a menu featuring food, drinks, milkshakes, cakes and snacks while they play.
Owners Katherine and Ben Parker-Jones said they "wanted to recognise the hard work local students have put into their exams and give them an affordable way to celebrate with friends".
The half-price promotion runs from 11am on Friday 26 June until 6pm on Sunday 28 June.
For more information or to book a table, visit The Dice Box website: https://the-dice-box.co.uk/the-dice-box-worcester/
Worcester’s businesses lead the way with new city-wide Refill initiative
Following last week's scorching heatwave, the critical importance of keeping residents, visitors, and cyclists safely hydrated across the city centre has stayed top of mind. In a brilliant response, Worcester’s business community has stepped up in a great way, uniting to join a brand-new Refill Pilot aimed at promoting active travel and slashing single-use plastic waste, an initative by Bike Worcester and Worcester BID.
An incredible 31 local businesses and venues have officially signed up for the scheme, transforming the high street into a collective network of hydration stations.
To ensure the initiative is completely accessible, participating spaces are opening their doors wide during business hours: anyone can walk in to top up their reusable water bottle for free, with absolutely no pressure to make a purchase or use the venue. Simply look out for the distinctive "Refill Here" stickers proudly displayed in their windows.
The Full List of 31 Participating Venues
From independent coffee shops to local cultural landmarks, a massive variety of city-centre spots are supporting this eco-friendly initiative. Next time you are out in town, you can grab a free, zero-pressure refill at any of these locations:
-
Tonic
-
Valentino’s
-
Gaumont Coffee
-
JNCTN
-
Coffee Warehouse
-
Pretty Good Coffee
-
Pretty Good Takeaway
-
Kitsons Pharmacy
-
Script Haven
-
Pack It In Zero Waste Living
-
The Guildhall
-
The Tourist Information Centre
-
The Dice Box
-
Chesters
-
Twisted Spoon
-
The Conservatory
-
Greyfriars National Trust
-
Tudor House Museum
-
Côte Worcester
-
Zizzi
-
The Botanist
-
Mulligans
-
Muffin Break
-
Diglis House Hotel
-
Alcove
-
The Kiln
-
Coffee Dough
-
Hash
-
Cornish Bakery
-
The Hive (Fountains on Floors 2 and 3)
-
The Artery Studios (Opening times vary)
Combined with the city council's existing hydration stations located at Chapel Walk and Pump Street, this business-backed network marks a huge step forward for a greener, healthier Worcester.
A massive thank you goes out to all the independent faces and teams behind these counters for opening their doors to support the city. Be sure to pop in, refill, and say hello to the businesses keeping our community thriving!
Cozy Cup Café opens brand-new location in Worcester city centre
Worcester's vibrant independent café scene welcomes an exciting new face this week as Cozy Cup Café officially opens its doors in the heart of Chapel Walk.
Designed to be a stylish and relaxing sanctuary for shoppers, workers, and locals alike, the new independent venue brings a warm, welcoming energy to the city centre. From morning coffee runs to relaxed afternoon catch-ups with friends, the café is positioning itself as the perfect new spot to unwind during busy days in town.
A First Look at the Venue's Food and Drink Offer
Cozy Cup Café brings a diverse and high-quality offering to Chapel Walk, ensuring there is a little something for everyone, no matter the time of day. Visitors can look forward to:
-
Barista-Crafted Coffee – Freshly brewed and expertly prepared for your morning wake-up.
-
Fresh Pastries & Cakes – Baked fresh and perfectly paired with a hot drink.
-
Breakfast & Lunch Options – Savoury, tasty dishes to keep you fuelled throughout the day.
-
Refreshing Drinks – An array of thick milkshakes, fruity smoothies, and cool beverages.
-
Delicious Ice Cream – The ultimate treat, perfect for cooling down during sunny shopping days.
The team behind Cozy Cup Café is thrilled to finally welcome the Worcester community into their beautifully curated space, inviting everyone to pop in, say hello, and discover a new local favourite.
We wish them luck with the new venture.
The Kiln celebrates hitting major 100-member milestone in Worcester
Independent co-working space The Kiln is celebrating a major milestone this week, marking seven years of business by officially welcoming its 100th member into its thriving city centre community.
What started as a simple idea to get local business people into a building together, removing feelings of isolation of lone working and offering a great space to work, has quietly grown into one of Worcester’s most supportive and dynamic business networks. Over nearly a decade, the space has established itself as a vital cornerstone of the city's independent business ecosystem.
A Diverse Hub for Local Innovation
The Kiln has evolved to become a shared home for a rich mix of professional talent, offering a collaborative environment where local industries intersect and flourish.
Speaking about the journey and reaching the 100-member mark, The Kiln Co-Founder Greg Smith said:
"What started as a simple idea... has quietly grown into one of Worcester’s most supportive business communities. We’re very excited to sign up our 100th member and see our friendly community continue to grow. The Kiln has become home to a mix of members, from freelancers and remote workers to startups and established small businesses who otherwise might not have met."
The milestone is a huge positive milestone for The Kiln, showing that Worcester remains a fantastic and supportive place to start, build, and grow a business.
To find out more about membership options, book a tour of the space, or join the growing community, head to https://thekiln.co/!
New Menu! Tealith has just launched its brand-new Boba Shake range
Independent beverage brand Tealith has just launched its brand-new Boba Shake range, bringing together the fun of bubble tea with the indulgence of a thick and creamy milkshake. Designed as a unique take on a classic summer drink, the new line introduces a vibrant twist to the local independent drink scene.
The drinks are crafted to offer a rich, textured experience and are available right now across all Tealith stores. Dessert and bubble tea lovers can choose from three distinct, eye-catching flavors:
-
Mango
-
Strawberry
-
Ube Taro
Instant Hit with Customers
The new Boba Shakes have already proven highly popular with early customers, receiving glowing reviews for their thick texture and unique taste profile.
Mil from Bath described the new drink range simply as "so nice", while Charlotte from Exeter commented, "We absolutely loved our drinks."
The decadent texture has also drawn comparisons to premium desserts. Daniel from Bournemouth praised the range as "yummy, thick and creamy", and Salwa from Bournemouth added, "This tastes like a cheesecake and I'm enjoying it so much."
Tealith is currently serving amazing drinks from 7 stores, saying "we are extremely proud of being an independent and British-based business".
The full Boba Shake range is available to try now. To explore the menu or locate your nearest branch, visit the official Tealith website.
Brown’s At The Quay Tuesday’s: Get 50% off all A La Carte Menu Mains
Prominent city-centre venue Browns At The Quay offers mid-week popular Tuesday evening dining campaign.
The riverside restaurant, a long-standing cornerstone of the city's independent culinary scene, runs a weekly initiative offering an incredible 50 per cent reduction on all main courses from its premium À La Carte menu every Tuesday. The exciting campaign highlights the growing strength and adaptability of Worcester's hospitality sector, where leading independents are creating sophisticated yet accessible experiences to capture rising consumer demand for mid-week socialising.
Rather than reserving dining out strictly for the weekend, local residents are increasingly looking for premium mid-week leisure options. By opening up its signature artisanal menu at a highly competitive price point, Browns At The Quay is positioning the historic riverside district as the central hub for mid-week dining in the county.
Elevating the City's Weekday Offering
The initiative has earned strong praise from local business leaders for its proactive contribution to the city's evening economy. Speaking about the successful campaign, the Worcester BID team said:
"This initiative by Browns is a prime example of how our local businesses innovate during changing times. It elevates the city's weekday evening offering, making premium, locally sourced dining an attractive, vibrant choice every day of the week!"
By encouraging footfall to the historic riverside during the week, the initiative gives residents a practical and rewarding reason to head out, support a local independent venue, and enjoy a great dining experience.
Because high demand is anticipated for the Tuesday evening slots, patrons are being strongly advised to book ahead.
To browse the full À La Carte menu or to book a table for this Tuesday, visit the Browns Worcester website by pressing here.
Looking Sharp Barbers moves in to historic Friar Street Venue
Long-standing business Looking Sharp has entered a new chapter by relocating to a prominent National Trust property located on Friar Street.
The barbershop, which has been a fixture of the Worcester high street for approximately 15 years, previously operated out of premises on New Street. Joint owners Zarin Dodson and Layton Kingston have now transitioned the business into a Grade II listed building that boasts four and a half centuries of local history.
In executing the move, the owners worked closely with the National Trust to ensure the interior alterations respected the historic integrity of the site. The team opted for a minimalist, traditional aesthetic that complements the property's original character rather than introducing overly modern fixtures.
The relocation also marks the beginning of an expansion strategy for the business. Operating in the heritage space adjacent to Greyfriars House and Garden, the owners are currently seeking independent professionals to utilise the building’s additional capacity. The duo intends to sublet space to a complementary venture, such as a beautician or a tattoo studio, that aligns with the aesthetic standards of the listed building.
Looking Sharp has maintained a consistent presence in Worcester despite broader economic challenges, surviving flooding, fires, and the commercial disruptions of recent years. The owners attribute their longevity to a highly resilient business model and a deeply loyal customer base that spans multiple generations of local families.
The new Friar Street location is now fully operational, combining traditional community barbering with one of the city's most significant architectural settings.
We wish the team luck with the new venture!
Press here to visit Looking Sharps social media.
Escape Hunt Worcester | 10% OFF ANY ESCAPE ROOMS, OR CITY HUNTS
10% OFF ANY ESCAPE ROOMS, OR CITY HUNTS
THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO ANY DRINKS, GIFT CARDS, PRINT AND PLAYS, OR ANY OTHER MERCHANDISE. MONDAY- THURSDAY ONLY. MUST PHONE OR COME IN STORE TO BOOK
AVAILABLE AT
6 Cathedral Square, Worcester
Comedy Superstar Ed Byrne Set for Intimate Summer Show at Worcester’s Historic Huntingdon Hall
Television veteran and household comedy name Ed Byrne is heading to Worcester this July for a special, extended headline performance, bringing high-profile stand-up into one of the city's most unique performance spaces.
The event, titled Ed Byrne & Friends, will take place at Huntingdon Hall on Saturday, 4th July. Organised by Worcester Theatres, the evening promises a rare opportunity for local comedy fans to see a certified arena-level comedian in an incredibly close-up environment.
Huntingdon Hall, a striking Grade II listed building nestled in the heart of Worcester, provides a dramatic architectural backdrop for live performance. Originally built in 1773 as a Methodist chapel by the Countess of Huntingdon, the venue was later saved from dereliction by local councils and transformed into a premier 330-seat theater in the late 1980s. With its distinct box pews and wrap-around gallery balcony, the space is highly regarded by touring artists for its superb acoustics and personal connection to the crowd.
Byrne, whose television career now spans over three decades, is widely recognised for his razor-sharp observational humour. A regular fixture on major UK screens, his credits include Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, QI, and The Graham Norton Show. His appearance in Worcester follows the widespread critical success of his recent national touring material, which secured the British Comedy Guide's Best Comedy Show of the Year award.
For the July showcase, Byrne will share the stage with two hand-picked guest comedians, with organisers hinting that the supporting line-up will be revealed to the public shortly.
Worcester Theatres has confirmed that while demand has been high, a limited number of tickets remain available for the 7:30 PM performance. Given the hall’s modest capacity compared to the massive venues Byrne typically headlines, arts coordinators are advising early booking to avoid disappointment.
Tickets can be purchased directly through the Worcester Theatres box office by visiting their website (press here) or by calling 01905 611 427.
An amazing £4281 raised from book donations at Greyfriars House and Garden
National Trust property Greyfriars House and Garden revealed that its second-hand bookshop has raised an impressive £4,281 over the past year.
The funds, generated entirely through public book donations and subsequent sales, will directly support the vital conservation and maintenance work at the historic city-centre property.
Located at No. 14 Friar Street, the popular bookshop has become a staple for local avid readers and visitors alike, offering a curated selection of pre-loved books. The initiative highlights a successful community-driven model of sustainable fundraising for the heritage site.
"This is a fantastic achievement by the team at Greyfriars," said the Worcester BID Team. "Every single purchase and donation plays a critical role in preserving this wonderful piece of Worcester’s history for future generations."
The bookshop operates Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Management notes that the shop relies on the generosity of the public and continues to welcome donations of good-quality books to help sustain the initiative into the coming year.
For locals looking for their next great read, a visit to Friar Street offers the perfect opportunity to discover a hidden gem while directly contributing to the preservation of Worcester's local heritage.
Worcester’s Reindeer Court Dental Marks Second Anniversary of Community Care
Local independent practice Reindeer Court Dental is celebrating its second anniversary this week, marking two years of dedicated service to the city’s dental health and community initiatives.
Since opening its doors, the practice has established itself as a cornerstone of the local community, known not just for its clinical care but for its patient-first approach. Over the past 24 months, the team has focused heavily on building long-term relationships with patients while expanding Worcester’s access to high-quality dental care.
Beyond the clinic, Reindeer Court Dental has also made a distinct impact through its corporate social responsibility, consistently engaging in charitable work and giving back to local causes.
"Over the past two years, they have been working incredibly hard looking after Worcester’s smiles. From building fantastic relationships with their patients to consistently giving back to our local community through their charity work, their impact goes far beyond the dental chair," said Worcester BID.
In an era where patient trust and community connection are paramount for independent healthcare providers, the practice's two-year milestone represents a significant success story for Worcester’s city centre.
Thank you to the entire team for everything you do as a dedicated practice thriving in the heart of our community.
Worcester Florist 'Floral Roundabout' Secures Prestigious Regional Title at Muddy Stilettos Awards 2026
Local independent business Floral Roundabout is celebrating a major milestone after being officially crowned the Best Florist in Worcestershire & Gloucestershire at the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2026.
The prestigious accolade highlights the very best of regional independent businesses, with winners chosen by public vote. For Floral Roundabout, a staple of Worcester’s high street, the win serves as a testament to their dedication, creativity, and impact on the local community.
Known for their bespoke floral artistry, the team has built a reputation for excellence across a wide spectrum of work, ranging from weddings and milestone celebrations to thoughtful, everyday arrangements.
This is an incredible achievement and a well-deserved recognition of their stunning artistry. Whether they are creating arrangements for grand events or simple, everyday moments, their passion shines through in every single bloom.
The Muddy Stilettos Awards are highly contested, making the win a significant boost not just for the florist, but for Worcester’s independent business ecosystem as a whole.
We are incredibly proud to have award-winning, independent business thriving right here in Worcester.
The community is already rallying behind the team, celebrating a win that puts Worcester’s vibrant independent scene firmly on the regional map.
The Worcester Pear Trail Coming This Summer
A brand-new heritage trail celebrating Worcester’s rich history and iconic pear connection is set to launch across the city centre this July.
Created in partnership between Worcester BID and Visit Worcestershire, The Worcester Pear Trail will run from 20th July until 4th September and will feature 10 heritage-themed pear sculptures displayed in business windows across Worcester city centre.
To further transform the city centre for the summer, 35 business windows will also be adorned with bespoke pear blossom artwork, creating a wider experience for residents and visitors alike.
The pear sculptures and blossom window artwork for the campaign have been designed by Worcester BID’s Creative Lead, Catt Standen.
Samantha McCarthy, CEO of Worcester BID said, “We are delighted to be partnering with Visit Worcestershire to help drive tourism into Worcester and encourage more people to experience everything the city has to offer. The Worcester Pear Trail provides a fun and interactive way for visitors and residents alike to explore Worcester’s rich heritage while supporting local businesses throughout the summer.”
Alongside the trail, Worcester BID will also host a series of community workshops in collaboration with The Hive, engaging pupils from local schools to help create a pear blossom archway installation.
The project takes inspiration from Queen Elizabeth I’s historic visit to Worcester, where she was greeted by an orchard of pear trees and famously picked a pear directly from one of the trees herself, a story which remains an important part of the city’s heritage today and pears can be spotted across the city centre to this day!
Lorna Robinson, Visitor Economy and Destination Manager of Visit Worcestershire said, “The Worcester Pear Trail shows what can be achieved through strong partnership working, bringing together our businesses, creativity and heritage to deliver something truly accessible & engaging for the summer. It offers a simple, fun way for families and visitors to explore Worcester’s rich history, supporting our wider ‘Summer of Heritage’ campaign across the County. Most importantly, it’s another reason for people to spend time in the city, discover its stories, and see first-hand why the City and wider Worcestershire holds such an important place in England’s history.”
Each pear sculpture will feature a QR code, allowing visitors to learn more about Worcester’s pear heritage and the stories behind each trail location. Participants will be able to complete the trail digitally via an app (PRESS HERE TO SIGN UP) or using printed trail maps.
To stay updated on the app launch, trail details, and prize draw information, follow Worcester BID’s trail and events page on Facebook here.
City Partners to make Angel Place into a safe space for outdoor events and play
Worcester BID Delighted to Support Vision for Angel Place
Worcester BID is delighted to be a delivery partner, working alongside Worcester City Council, Scala Arts Centre, Starburst, owners of Friary Walk, and Play Worcester to help develop a shared vision for Angel Place as a vibrant, safe and flexible outdoor destination for the community.
The proposed transformation forms part of the wider regeneration of this area of the city centre, creating opportunities for a diverse programme of performances, creative experiences and activities throughout the year.
By activating this currently underused area, the project will help increase footfall, encourage longer visits to the city centre and support the wider local economy.
Samantha McCarthy, Worcester BID CEO, said:
"Partnership working is key to creating successful places, and it is fantastic to see organisations from across the city coming together with a shared ambition, and we are proud to be one of them.
"Angel Place has the potential to become a valuable addition to Worcester's cultural and community offer, creating opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy a varied programme of activities while also bringing more visitors into this part of the city centre and supporting local businesses."
Councillor Hannah Cooper, Vice-Chair of Worcester City Council’s Place and Economic Development Committee, said: “We want Angel Place to become a place where people can come together in a safe space to meet family and friends and enjoy a wide range of events and activities throughout the year.”
Hannah Phillips, Chief Executive & Artistic Director of Scala Arts Centre, said: “We look forward to working in partnership with Worcester City Council and other organisations to transform Angel Place into a safe, dynamic and playful cultural hub.
Works are expected to take place in 2027 following completion of the Scala Arts Centre development.
275 Years of Worcester Porcelain: City Celebrates a Remarkable Milestone
275 Years of Worcester Porcelain: City Celebrates a Remarkable Milestone
One of Worcester’s most treasured success stories is preparing to celebrate an extraordinary milestone, as 2026 marks the 275th anniversary of the founding of Dr. Wall’s Porcelain Works – the beginning of what would become one of the most influential names in British ceramics.
Founded in June 1751, Worcester Porcelain was among the earliest and most commercially successful porcelain
manufacturers in England, playing a pivotal role in the development of transfer-printing and contributing significantly to the Midlands’ industrial heritage.
To honour this landmark anniversary, the Museum of Royal Worcester and Royal Porcelain Works will host a series of special events, celebrating the craftsmanship, innovation and legacy that have made Worcester porcelain renowned across the world.
One of the highlights of the celebrations will be a special heritage-inspired Afternoon Tea taking place on Saturday 20 June 2026, from 1pm to 3pm in the beautiful Henry Sandon Hall. The elegant venue, originally opened as the porcelain factory showroom in 1852, provides the perfect setting to reflect on nearly three centuries of Worcester’s remarkable manufacturing history.
Guests attending the event will enjoy an afternoon of fascinating stories, expert insights and traditional hospitality, with an exclusive panel of renowned Worcester Porcelain specialists sharing their knowledge and memories of the historic manufactory.
The expert panel includes:
🏺 Philip Serrell – Acclaimed auctioneer, author, television personality and Chair of the Museum Trustees.
🏺 Paul Crane – Descendant of Worcester Porcelain founder Dr. John Wall, museum trustee and respected porcelain historian.
🏺 John Sandon – Internationally recognised authority on Worcester porcelain, long-standing BBC Antiques Roadshow specialist and son of the late Henry Sandon.
🏺 Jane Tudge – Worcester porcelain enthusiast and expert.
The afternoon tea itself takes inspiration from the historic 1951 Bicentenary Dinner held for factory workers at Worcester Guildhall. Guests will be treated to a selection of handcrafted sandwiches, artisan desserts and traditional fruit scones served on genuine Royal Worcester porcelain, accompanied by English Breakfast or Earl Grey tea.
Museum Director Kate Travers said:
“Guests will enjoy tradition, artistry and creative deliciousness as they savour afternoon tea served in Royal Worcester, finding out more about the history of Worcester Porcelain, the perfect celebration of our legacy.”
For Worcester residents, the anniversary is more than a celebration of beautiful ceramics. It is an opportunity to recognise a local industry that helped shape the city’s identity, provided employment for generations of families, and earned Worcester international recognition for excellence in craftsmanship and design.
As the city looks ahead to 2026, the 275th anniversary promises to be a fitting tribute to one of Worcester’s greatest success stories and a chance for both residents and visitors to celebrate a remarkable chapter in the city’s history.
Click here to book your afternoon tea places
“VATS THE PROBLEM”: The movement to help save our favourite hospitality venues
“VATS THE PROBLEM”: The movement to help save our favourite hospitality venues
- Germany: 7% VAT
- France, Spain, and Italy: 10% VAT
- Securing a stronger future for the cafes and pubs that keep our high streets alive.
- Protecting thousands of local jobs, especially for young people starting out in the workforce.
- Keeping the places we love affordable, ensuring they remain welcoming social hubs for everyone.
Lift-Off for Accessibility at Worcester’s Swan Theatre
Lift-Off for Accessibility at Worcester’s Swan Theatre
There’s more good news for Worcester’s cultural quarter as the Swan Theatre unveils a brand-new accessible platform lift, helping make one of the city’s most-loved venues even more welcoming for visitors, audiences and community groups.
Installed with support from Worcester City Council through UK Shared Prosperity Fund investment, the new lift improves access between floors within the theatre, making it easier for people with mobility requirements to enjoy performances, workshops and events at the venue.
The investment is a significant step forward for accessibility at the Swan Theatre, which plays a vital role in Worcester’s cultural life and attracts thousands of visitors to the city centre each year. As Worcester’s only professional theatre, the venue is home to performances, youth theatre programmes, community activities and creative opportunities for people of all ages.
The official opening brought together representatives from Worcester Theatres, Worcester City Council, volunteers and young people from the Swan Youth Theatre’s Relaxed Sessions programme, highlighting the theatre’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the arts are accessible to everyone.
The new platform lift will support patrons accessing the auditorium, participants attending workshops and community groups using the theatre’s upstairs spaces. It also reflects wider efforts to improve visitor experiences across Worcester’s cultural venues.
Investments like this strengthen Worcester’s reputation as a vibrant, inclusive city where culture, creativity and community continue to thrive.
From live performances and workshops to family events and youth programmes, the Swan Theatre remains an important part of the city centre experience — and this latest improvement ensures even more people can enjoy everything it has to offer.
Bike Worcester and Worcester BID launch new initiative to support sustainability and active travel
Bike Worcester and Worcester BID have teamed up to launch a new campaign encouraging the use of reusable water bottles and celebrating those who choose to travel by bike.
Eye-catching “Refill Here” stickers will be offered to cafés, bars and hospitality venues across the city. These will let passers-by know they are welcome to step inside and refill their reusable bottles at no cost. The idea has already proven successful in other UK towns and cities, where similar schemes have been shown to reduce the number of single-use bottles littering streets and waterways.
In addition ‘Thanks for Cycling’ stickers will be deployed on bike racks and stands throughout the city as a small gesture of gratitude to those choosing to travel into the city centre on two wheels, another initiative seen in other UK cities.
This approach also encourages people to support local businesses and discover venues they may not have visited before, often leading them to return as paying customers.
Samantha McCarthy, CEO of Worcester BID, said:
“We want Worcester to be a city that supports people in choosing active and sustainable ways to get around. This initiative is a great way for our business community to show their care for visitors and residents. By offering free water refills and recognising those who travel by bike, we can help reduce plastic pollution, enhance the visitor experience and play a part in making Worcester a more welcoming, greener and forward-thinking city.”
Danny Brothwell, Chair of Bike Worcester, said:
“We’re delighted to be partnering with Worcester BID on this project. Inviting people into establishments to refill water bottles is incredibly welcoming and will also reduce the use of single-use water bottles. I’ve made use of similar schemes in other towns and cities, and it’s fantastic that Worcester is also rolling it out. It’s a lovely gesture from establishments and often results in the recipient spending money on something else, or remembering the venue for a return visit.”
The project also introduces “Thanks for Cycling” stickers for bike racks around Worcester. This small but meaningful message aims to make cyclists feel valued and appreciated, encouraging more people to consider two wheels as a practical, healthy and environmentally friendly way of travelling.
Danny continued:
“The ‘Thank you for Cycling’ message is also something I’ve experienced elsewhere and is a great way to encourage people to choose a bike as a mode of transport. This fits in perfectly with the Government and Council aims to increase cycling and walking, which improves the city for everyone. Cycling still tops the chart as the most space and energy efficient mode of transport humans have invented.”
In other UK areas where the national Refill campaign has been introduced, the results have been significant. According to the campaign’s 2022 Impact Report, 86% of people are now more likely to carry a reusable bottle and refill on the go after encountering Refill signage, and almost three-quarters have refilled as a direct result of seeing a sticker in a café window. Water UK has estimated that if just one in ten people in the country refilled their bottle once a week, it would prevent around 340 million single-use plastic bottles from being used each year.
Hydration stations, funded by Worcester City Council, are also located at the entrance of Chapel Walk (Broad Street) and on Pump Street, offering convenient outdoor refill spots for City visitors. This is especially beneficial as the UK experiences an increase in heatwaves, helping keep everyone cool and hydrated while reducing single-use plastic waste.
This two-pronged sticker initiative is part of a shared commitment by Bike Worcester and Worcester BID to support a cleaner, greener and more vibrant city.
