Invitation to my sister Penny’s new place of abode in Worcester- also a chance to catch up with my brother Matt and brother-in-law Tony. Penny has been in the house since August and overseen several improvements, particularly to the garden and surrounding shrubbery. With the weather looking better than forecast we set off for a walk .These amazing fungi were in a neighbouring front garden.
Very quickly we came upon a park after crossing a stream.
Opened in 1922 .Autumnal colours along Barbourne Brook. The first thing to catch our attention was a striking sculpture.GHELUVELT is also the name of the park .A very striking memorialThe bandstand was located above the pond and we could just imagine a summer scene with live music . Throughout the summer bands regularly perform on the bandstand.We walked to our coffee stop – the recently restored Victorian pump house which is also an environmental centre.An almost brand new Footbridge across the River SevernWhere did they come from?The Severn,200 miles and the longest river in England.After a few hundred metres, the towpath took us by some riverside residences fortified in different ways against flooding.A relatively modern construction Natural defences.A decorative descent to the river – hope the garden furniture doesn’t float away .Trees – Self Optimising Structures…if you get my drift.Worcestershire Race Course across the river .Taking us towards another impressive footbridge.Crossing towards the racetrack River view from the footbridge.“Keep On Running” or in our case rambling!Railway Bridge corner,galloping towards the finish…The University has a number of campuses around the city.We were bound for The Infirmary ( no jokes please ) – being a Monday it was one of the few sites open. The Infirmary Museum is an interactive exhibition at the University of Worcester’s City Campus combining history, science, art and technology to explore the medical stories of one of England’s oldest infirmaries.
WORCESTER ROYAL INFIRMARY Worcester Infirmary operated from this site from 1771 until 2002 and in that time observed many advances in healthcare and innovation. Those who worked here also proved instrumental and the exhibition and tours aim to convey these important discoveries. For example, local man Sir Charles Hastings presided over the first meeting of the Provincial Medical and Surgical Association in July 1832. The organisation which later became the British Medical Association and continues to print the British Medical Journal sharing the results and research by medical professionals to improve the lives of many. Worcester Infirmary was granted ‘Royal’ status on a visit from HRH Prince of Wales in 1932 and subsequently was referred to as WRI. The records and archives of the historic building and activities at Castle Street, as well as the first infirmary in the city at Silver Street are held in the hive and the George Marshall Medical Museum and are available for research purposes. Only one large room but designed brilliantly.
The museum’s collections include information and research about former patients of the Worcester City and County Pauper Lunatic Asylum, also known as Powick Asylum.
Three examples of inmate records-a fascinating feature within the Infirmary collection.An exceptional little museum and a thoroughly enjoyable and informative visit.We had aperitifs in this amazing local – apart from great beer the inside was filled with curios, sketches and photos, many of which we enjoyed recognising.The pub has a strong musical theme!
TUESDAY MORNING’S VISIT TO THE MUSEUM
Housed in an elegant Victorian building in the heart of Worcester, the Art Gallery and Museum is a warm and friendly place with exhibitions, events and activities for all the family to enjoy throughout the year.
A handsome place.Just before a side entrance to the museum we came upon these figures perched on the end of a van. We later discovered thst they were part of a temporary collection which was being dismantled.Upto the balcony and a welcoming cafe.Our attention was taken by another temporary exhibition.Watercolours of many of Worcester’s historic buildings by Jilly Oxlade-Arnott The facade of Worcestershire Cathedral Jilly Oxlade-Arnott started her professional artistic career in Worcester, studying its abundant heritage. Now an established international artist, this welcome return unveils new work depicting the city’s historic architecture.
We packed a lot into 24 very enjoyable hours and Worcester is a great city to pass time in – so much history – and that mighty river. Thanks to Penny,Matt and Tony for being such good city guides and great company.
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