If you’re getting tired of sitting in your room or can’t figure out where to go between lectures, I’ve made a short list of places that I usually go to in Worcester to read, listen to music, and just spend some time outside.
Spending time outside is incredibly helpful for our mental health as it can decrease anxiety levels, help lessen stress, and has been linked to lower risks of depression, as well as improving concentration and attention.
Coffee Shops
Personally, I’ve found on St John’s and the City Campus there are dozens of coffee shops or little restaurants where you can sit and enjoy a warm drink, read a book, or even get some work done.
There are a few different places that I enjoy for their own unique differences, the first being Starbucks as they usually have a lot of desk space for working, I also enjoy going to Greggs, specifically the one close to the Jenny Lind Building as they have a large upstairs sitting area which is usually quiet and empty, and it’s very affordable. I also enjoy the smaller, independent coffee places around Worcester such as Francini Café De Colombia with its unique décor and uplifting feel.
River Severn
Just beside the river there are a few small benches and I’ve found this to be a peaceful, beautiful, little escape outside. It’s not always ideal for doing work but if you just want a quick break from city life and lectures, it’s great for unwinding, especially while sitting and watching the swans drift by.
Parks
There are two parks near to the University that I love to visit, the Gheluvelt Park and the Woods Country Park. If you’re looking for a hidden spot outside, these parks are perfect with a beautiful view and lots of benches.
The parks are also a great place to watch some wildlife, mostly including birds and squirrels.
Worcester Cathedral
The Worcester Cathedral is free to enter and has amazing historic architecture, while also providing a cosy sitting area perfect for enjoying a bit of quiet. The Cathedral is usually also quite empty unless there are practicing sermons, their schedule is usually posted just outside of the Cathedral.
The Hive
The Hive is a buzzing library with a fantastic canteen area, it’s perfect for studying, reading, writing, and any other hobbies you’d want to enjoy outside of your room. The Hive also has a range of beautiful art exhibitions displayed in the Atrium that are easily accessible while walking around.
I hope you enjoyed this list and found it useful! Snatching those few minutes of breaks between hectic days can be fantastic for our mental and physical wellbeing, so remember to find those gaps in the day where you can breathe and relax.