The Infirmary Museum at University of Worcester
Explore centuries of medical history and innovation at Worcester’s interactive Infirmary Museum, blending science, art, and community heritage.
The Infirmary Museum, located at the University of Worcester’s City Campus, is an interactive exhibition exploring the rich medical history of one of England’s oldest infirmaries. Through engaging displays combining history, science, art, and technology, visitors can meet historical characters, investigate medical innovations, and reflect on mental health across eras. The museum offers a family-friendly, educational experience with hands-on exhibits ideal for children and adults alike.
A brief summary to The Infirmary Museum
- University of, City Campus, Castle St, Worcester, WR1 3AS, GB
- +441905542373
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Entry to The Infirmary Museum is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly cultural outing.
- The museum is highly interactive and family-friendly, ideal for children aged 8-12 with hands-on exhibits.
- Visit on weekdays between 10am and 5pm for the best experience; the museum is closed on Sundays and Saturdays.
- Accessibility is good with ground-floor location, lift access, and facilities including baby changing and toilets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Worcester city centre to the University of Worcester City Campus near Castle Street, with typical journey times of 10 to 20 minutes. Check current bus timetables for routes serving the racecourse and cathedral area. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £4.
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Train and Taxi
Worcester Foregate Street and Worcester Shrub Hill stations are the closest rail stops. From either station, a taxi ride to the museum takes about 5 to 10 minutes, costing around £6 to £10. Taxi ranks are available outside both stations.
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Walking
If staying in central Worcester, the museum is reachable on foot within 15 to 25 minutes along mostly flat, paved streets. The route is suitable for wheelchair users and families with children.
The Infirmary Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Infirmary Museum
Historical Roots of Worcester Infirmary
The Infirmary Museum traces the fascinating history of Worcester Infirmary, which operated on this site from 1771 until 2002. This institution witnessed many medical advances and innovations over its long tenure. Notably, Sir Charles Hastings, a local figure, played a pivotal role in founding the Provincial Medical and Surgical Association in 1832, which evolved into the British Medical Association. The infirmary gained 'Royal' status in 1932, reflecting its significance in healthcare development. The museum preserves and presents these stories alongside archives held at related local medical museums.Engaging and Interactive Exhibits
The museum offers an immersive experience combining history, science, art, and technology. Visitors can meet characters from the infirmary’s past, explore medical technologies, and engage with exhibits that challenge perceptions of mental health. The displays encourage reflection on how healthcare has evolved and invite visitors to share their own thoughts. This interactive approach makes the museum particularly appealing to families and school groups, with activities designed to engage children aged 8-12.Setting and Accessibility
Situated within the University of Worcester’s City Campus on Castle Street, the museum is housed on the ground floor with lift and staircase access. Facilities include toilets, baby changing areas, and a café on the same level, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. The entrance is discreet but accessible, and the museum is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for visitors, including those with disabilities.Educational and Community Role
Beyond its exhibits, The Infirmary Museum serves as an educational resource and community hub. It hosts events, guided tours, and can accommodate school and group visits by arrangement. The museum also emphasizes the importance of medical research and heritage, connecting local history to broader developments in healthcare. Its role in preserving medical stories contributes to cultural heritage and public understanding of medicine’s past and present.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The museum’s atmosphere is both contemplative and lively, balancing informative content with interactive elements. The compact space encourages focused exploration, allowing visitors to absorb detailed stories and artifacts without feeling overwhelmed. The blend of historical narrative and modern technology creates a unique environment that invites curiosity and learning, suitable for solo visitors, families, and groups.Connection to Worcester’s Medical Heritage
The Infirmary Museum is part of a network of medical heritage sites in Worcester, including the George Marshall Medical Museum and archives held at the Hive. Together, these institutions offer a comprehensive view of the city’s medical past, from early infirmaries to modern healthcare. Visitors interested in medical history, innovation, and community health will find rich resources and stories here that illuminate the evolution of medicine in the region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Cotswold Journeys
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Broadway Tower
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Sudeley Castle Gardens
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Winston Churchill Memorial Gardens
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Cleeve Hill
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Unmissable attractions to see
Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum
0.3 km
Discover Worcester’s rich heritage and British Impressionist art in a charming Victorian museum with engaging exhibitions and family-friendly activities.
Crowngate Shopping Centre
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Worcester’s vibrant city-centre shopping and dining destination with over 60 stores and diverse eateries in a modern, accessible setting.
St Andrews Spire (Glover's Needle)
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Worcester’s towering 245-foot slender spire, Glover's Needle, blends historic architecture, industrial heritage, and wildlife conservation in a scenic riverside setting.
Discover History Walking Tours
0.6 km
Step back in time with engaging themed walking tours that reveal the rich history and hidden stories of Worcester.
The Shambles, Worcester
0.7 km
Medieval butchers' street transformed into a charming independent shopping destination in Worcester's historic heart.
Spin The Black Circle
0.7 km
Discover Worcester’s vibrant vinyl record shop, café, and live music bar where culture, coffee, and community come together.
National Trust - Greyfriars House and Garden
0.8 km
Discover the rich history and timeless charm of Greyfriars, a late-medieval timber-framed house nestled in Worcester’s historic heart.
Sir Edward Elgar
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Honoring Sir Edward Elgar, Worcestershire’s celebrated composer whose timeless music shaped British classical heritage.
Tudor House Museum
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Step back into Tudor England at Worcester’s authentic Tudor House Museum, where history lives in every beam and corner.
Edgar Tower
1.0 km
Discover the historic Edgar Tower in Worcester, an architectural gem offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's rich heritage.
Museum of Royal Worcester
1.1 km
Discover 250 years of exquisite Worcester porcelain craftsmanship and creativity in the historic heart of Worcester.
The Commandery
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Explore Worcester’s iconic Civil War headquarters with immersive history, beautiful gardens, and a cozy canal-side café.
Fort Royal Park
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Historic hilltop park in Worcester offering panoramic views, Civil War heritage, and family-friendly play areas.
Gheluvelt Park
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A serene World War I memorial park in Worcester offering vibrant recreational spaces and peaceful riverside conservation.
Chapter Meadows
1.4 km
A peaceful riverside nature reserve in Worcester offering seasonal beauty, wildlife, and tranquil walks along the River Severn.
Essential places to dine
Ostlers At Number 1
0.1 km
Award-winning British restaurant in Worcester offering seasonal, locally sourced dishes in an elegant riverside setting near the city centre.
Burger Shop Worcester
0.2 km
Creative, locally sourced gourmet burgers served in a unique railway arch setting in the heart of Worcester.
Valentinos
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and generous portions in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Valentinos, Worcester’s beloved Italian restaurant.
Ounce Bar And Kitchen
0.3 km
Modern steakhouse and whiskey bar in Worcester’s historic heart, blending quality dining with a vibrant atmosphere and unique flavors.
The Lamb & Flag
0.3 km
Experience Worcester's vibrant culture at The Lamb & Flag, where traditional charm meets modern dining in a lively atmosphere.
Island
0.4 km
Authentic Greek flavors and warm Mediterranean hospitality in the heart of Worcester’s vibrant Broad Street.
Yeliz Blossom Room Turkish Grill Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in a historic Worcester setting, perfect for savoring traditional grills and mezes.
Bill's Worcester Restaurant
0.5 km
A lively British restaurant in Worcester city centre offering fresh, flavorful dishes and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The Olive Branch Mediterranean Bistro & Wine Bar
0.5 km
A cozy Mediterranean bistro in Worcester offering exceptional tapas, a curated wine list, and a welcoming atmosphere with vegan-friendly options.
Anatolian Palace Turkish Mediterranean Grill Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Worcester’s Crowngate Shopping Centre.
Browns at the Quay
0.6 km
Elegant modern European dining with riverside views, attentive service, and a refined atmosphere in the heart of Worcester.
Hickory's - Worcester
0.6 km
Savor authentic American barbecue flavors in a lively, family-friendly smokehouse set in Worcester’s scenic Cripplegate Park.
Chesters Restaurant & Bar
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Vibrant Mexican and Tex-Mex dining in Worcester with standout vegan options and a lively, colorful atmosphere.
Farriers Arms
0.7 km
A historic Tudor-style pub in Worcester offering hearty British fare, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in the city center.
Côte Worcester
0.8 km
Experience authentic French brasserie classics in a stylish, relaxed setting at Côte Worcester on High Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Works
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Discover creative inspiration and unique gifts at The Works, Worcester’s welcoming hub for books, crafts, and more in Crowngate Shopping Centre.
Maelhaus Vintage and Designer
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Maelhaus Vintage and Designer, Worcester’s curated boutique for iconic clothing and accessories.
Toys & Games Of Worcester UK
0.4 km
A traditional Worcester toy shop offering a vast range of toys, games, and trading card tournaments for all ages since 1994.
New England Country Store
0.4 km
Discover charming gifts and home accessories inspired by New England tradition in the heart of Worcester’s historic Broad Street.
Bluebells
0.5 km
Explore Bluebells Gift Shop in Worcester for unique gifts, local crafts, and memorable souvenirs that capture the essence of your visit.
House of Fraser
0.5 km
Discover a diverse selection of fashion, beauty, and homeware essentials at House of Fraser Worcester in the heart of Crown Gate.
Cornucopia Home and Gift
0.5 km
Independent gift and homeware haven where curated treasures meet interior design expertise.
Acanthus
0.6 km
Discover unique fashion and artisan accessories in the heart of Worcester’s vibrant Corn Market.
Hothouse Worcester
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish accessories in the heart of Worcester’s historic Shambles at Hothouse, where quality meets charm.
White Stuff Worcester
0.7 km
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Karma Shack
0.7 km
Discover unique new age gifts and spiritual treasures in Worcester’s welcoming independent Karma Shack.
Sassy Boutique Ltd
0.8 km
Elegant ladies' occasion wear and personalized styling in the heart of Worcester’s vibrant shopping district.
Bygones Of Worcester
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Discover timeless antiques and captivating history at Bygones Of Worcester, nestled in the heart of Worcester’s Cathedral Square.
Cathedral Square
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SWAN Boutique Worcester
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bolero Bar
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Tonic Bar
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The Paul Pry
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The Marrs Bar
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Vue Bar
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Slug & Lettuce - Worcester
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The Courtyard
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Cocky Anchor
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The Imperial Tavern
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Coach & Horses
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A warm Georgian pub in Worcester offering excellent gastropub fare, lively music, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Alma
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The King Charles House
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Historic charm meets hearty pies and warm hospitality at Worcester’s beloved King Charles House pub.
The Firefly Beer Haus
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Keystones Cocktail Club
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Underground boutique cocktail bar in Worcester offering creative drinks and lively nightlife in a vibrant, intimate setting.
The Pheasant
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tramps Nightclub
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Worcester’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering energetic dance floors, diverse music, and a lively social scene in the heart of the city.
Bushwackers
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Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Bushwackers, a dynamic nightclub with diverse music, multiple bars, and a popular outdoor chill-out area.
The Flag
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Worcester’s vibrant LGBT nightclub and gay bar, The Flag offers lively late-night entertainment and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Sin
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Experience Worcester’s vibrant nightlife at Sin, a lively nightclub known for energetic music, salsa nights, and a bustling dance floor in the city centre.
2 PIGS
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A lively Cheltenham nightclub with dual rooms spinning rock, punk, indie, and classic hits, known for affordable drinks and an alternative vibe.
Home and Botanic Nightclub
34.5 km
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Thirteen Degrees
34.5 km
Cheltenham’s late-night hotspot for dancing, cocktails, and private events in a central urban setting.
Coco
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Cheltenham’s underground hotspot for vibrant nightlife, top DJs, and creative cocktails in a lively basement setting.
The 21 Club
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Experience Cheltenham’s vibrant nightlife at The 21 Club, where music, dancing, and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
Under the Prom
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Popworld - Cheltenham
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MooMoo Clubrooms Cheltenham
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The Stratford Upon Avon Bridge Club
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Stratford Play House
35.2 km
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Fat Cat Comedy Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Educational
- Family Friendly
- Interactive
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly