Staying in Worcester During University Open Days
If you’re heading to Worcester for a university open day, you’re not alone. These weekends are some of the busiest in the city, and accommodation gets snapped up quickly. Often by families who booked weeks (sometimes months) ahead. Whether you’re visiting the University of Worcester for the first time or returning for a follow-up visit, a little planning goes a long way.
This guide is written from a local point of view, what actually gets busy, where it makes sense to stay, and how to avoid the common last-minute stress.
What’s on & why it gets busy: the demand trigger
University open days usually run from late spring through early autumn, with peak dates clustering around April, June, July, September, and October. On those weekends, Worcester sees a triple hit of demand:
- Prospective students and families visiting the University of Worcester
- Academic events, campus tours, and accommodation viewings
- Regular city activity still ticking along (restaurants, riverside walks, weekend events)
Because many visitors travel as families, they often prefer larger spaces over standard hotel rooms, so serviced accommodation and multi-bed properties tend to sell out first.
Best places to stay: convenience vs quiet vs parking
Where you stay really depends on what matters most to you during the visit.
Close to the university (St John’s area)
This is the most popular choice for open days. It’s walkable to the main campus, has a residential feel, and generally offers easier on-street parking than the city centre. Ideal if you want a calmer base after a busy day of tours and talks.
City centre
Great for restaurants, cafés, and train access, but it can feel busier and noisier during peak weekends. Parking is more limited, and hotels here tend to fill up quickly with business travellers too.
Slightly outside the centre
If you don’t mind a short drive or taxi, areas just outside central Worcester can be quieter and often better value, especially for longer stays.
Getting there: travel, parking & arrival timing
Worcester is well connected, but timing matters during open days.
- By train: Both Foregate Street and Shrub Hill stations serve the city, with direct or one-change routes from Birmingham and London.
- By car: Expect heavier traffic around campus areas mid-morning on open days. Arriving earlier than you think you need to is rarely a bad idea.
- Parking: On-street parking fills up fast near the university. Staying somewhere with easier parking can remove a lot of stress from the day.
How early to book: realistic timelines + peak dates
This is where many visitors get caught out.
- Popular open day weekends: book 6–10 weeks in advance
- Summer and early autumn dates: even earlier if you need family-sized accommodation
- Weekdays or off-peak visits: more flexibility, often better prices
If you’re waiting for confirmation of open day dates, it’s usually safer to book a cancellable option early rather than risk missing out.
Weekend planning: food, walks & early check-in expectations
Open days often finish mid-afternoon, leaving time to explore. Worcester is easy to enjoy at a relaxed pace.
- Riverside walks along the Severn are a favourite with visiting families
- Independent cafés and casual dining spots are busiest between 4-6 pm on open day Saturdays
- Early check-in isn’t always guaranteed during peak weekends, so plan a flexible first afternoon just in case
A comfortable place to unwind at the end of the day makes a real difference, especially if you’re discussing course options over dinner.
Quick questions we’re often asked
Q: How early should I book for popular weekends?
Ideally 6–10 weeks ahead. For September open days, earlier is better.
Q: Which area is easiest for event travel?
St John’s is the most convenient for the University of Worcester, especially if you want to walk.
Q: Is parking harder during events?
Yes, particularly near campus and in the city centre. Arrive early or choose accommodation with easier parking options.
Q: Are weekdays quieter and cheaper?
Generally, yes. If you’re flexible with dates, weekday stays can be calmer and better value.
University open days are exciting, but they do make Worcester busy. Choosing the right area and booking early can turn a potentially stressful weekend into a genuinely enjoyable visit.
If you’re looking for an easy, well-located stay in Worcester with space to breathe, have a look at our serviced homes and pick the area that fits your trip.
Read more
