University is a walk in the park...

Tired of festering in your room that’s filled with dirty washing and empty Deliveroo bags? Why not ignore it all by going outside, getting some fresh air into those lungs and enjoying some good ole fashioned dog spotting? Here in Worcester, there’s plenty of parks for you to enjoy a gentle stroll or a sunny(ish) picnic.

Gheluvelt Park

69 Waterworks Rd, Worcester WR1 3EY

32min walk from St John’s Campus

21min walk from Foregate Street Station

Opening times: Dawn ‘til dusk

Arguably the most iconic park in Worcester, Gheluvelt Park was opened in 1922 to commemorate the Worcestershire Regiment's 2nd Battalion who partook in 1914 WWI Battle of Gheluvelt. There’s lots of serene spaces for you to enjoy in peace if you fancy reading your textbooks in the fresh air, as well as outdoor gym equipment, tennis courts and even a splash pad for kids to enjoy in the summer.

Worcester Woods Country Park

Wildwood Dr, Worcester WR5 2LG

12min drive from St John’s Campus

32min walk from Foregate Street Station

Opening times: 8:30 – 17:30 Monday to Thursday

8:30 – 18:00 Friday to Sunday

Worcester Woods Country Park showcases the beauty of the wilderness. Paired with the lovely Orchard Café and meadow trails, children’s play area and even the ability to hire a barbecue for £40, this is a great day out for you to enjoy. On top of this, there’s also access to Wi-Fi if you’re wanting a change of scenery for your study session.

Fort Royal Park

Wyld's Ln, Worcester WR5 2DJ

39min walk from St John’s Campus

17min walk from Foregate Street Station

Opening times: 24/7

Charles II once looked for support from the Worcester people during the English Civil War, and Fort Royal Park lay at the heart of this. Now, you can explore the park’s history on the Fort Royal Memory Trail and oogle at the incredible Friends Of Fort Royal & Commandery Gardens where the Worcester city skyline acts as a brilliant backdrop.

Pitmaston Park

Pitmaston Park, Malvern Rd, Worcester, WR2 4ZF

26min walk from St John’s Campus

32min walk from Foregate Street Station

Opening times: 24/7

Looking to do a bit of dog spotting or have a pooch you want to walk? If you’re located near Malvern Road, Pitmaston Park is the place to go. It’s also located close to Sainbury's, several cafés, a dog groomers and even a butchers. So if you’ve brought the dog along, you can treat them after that gruelling walkies!

Now you’ve got a few options, it’s time to grab a textbook, make a picnic (aka purchase a meal deal) and put on some sunnies. That way, you’re ready to do a bit of dog spotting and sunbathing whenever the sun makes a surprise appearance. There’s also no harm in doing a bit of laundry before heading out…