A fascinating walk through time over several hundred years. Focused on the English Civil War, as it was the Royalist HQ for their last stand, but the Commandery is much more than that. Highly recommended
Fascinating and very spooky this museum is perfect for a soggy summer morning and it's really easy to get a feel for the different eras of the building. The staff are welcoming and helpful and the curation is easy to understand and sympathetic. The garden is lovely and the café is great too. My camera started taking pictures on its own in one room. What fun.
During a very cultural day spent in Worcester (see my other reviews for the cathedral and gallery) I made this my third dose of history. I was really surprised at the scale of this museum. Entering from the main road I thought it would be a compact place but no, it's a big'un! Give yourself around 90 minutes to two hours at least to make your way around here to get the best experience. My advice would also be to listen carefully when you're advised on the best route to take and to use the plan provided. Maybe it was down to me not paying close enough attention to either of these or simply because I'm a bit of a prat but I did get lost and ended up doing a few laps. On the plus side I got more of an opportunity to take everything in (including a death mask; keep a lookout for that). One of the rooms in particular is allegedly haunted but as I stood alone there, with my eyes closed, the only sounds and feelings were my rumbling stomach (I was a tad hungry by this point). Never mind. Lots to learn and experience here. The historical trail you follow - at least twice in my case - is very interesting. It's a brilliant museum and I thoroughly recommend it.
Fascinating because this ancient building has been used in so many ways down the centuries, and you get a glimpse of each. Medieval hospital with paintings of saints who might help your illness, though how poor Thomas Becket could help after having his brain hacked open I don't know. Huge beautiful medieval Hall, merchant domestic dwellings, lots about the English Civil War, and a journey made by the first two presidents of America to visit the home of Freedom from tyranny!! Eg Charles 1 having his head cut off. Is there a theme here?! Georgian rooms with costumes. There was later a Victorian school for the blind, and in recent times, a print works. Lots to see, quite a confusing site, but staff are helpful. Pretty gardens and nice little cafe by the river. Paid entrance, but we thought our money was well spent. Good for kids. Ask staff if you have a wheelchair or mobility difficulties - they can help you avoid the cobbles!
The home of Charles Stuart during the last battle of the English civil war. It started life as an infirmary until the dissolution by Henry, well worth a visit the history of the house is unbelievable it's reputed to be haunted, events all year check website. Lovely independent cafe by the canal free to enter, charges to go in the museum/ garden, gift shop on site. Part of the Worcester February living history festival.
What an amazing place. Staff are wonderful and the history is breathtaking. Dressing up for little ones and lots for the grown ups to absorb. Highly recommend for all ages.
This building is much bigger than you'd expect by simply viewing it from the street. It actually had two wings dedicated to telling the story of the building. It can be hired out by schools on trips, as a wedding venue, and it has an escape room in the attic. You can even hunt for ghosts on ghost tour or after-hours sessions. They also have children's events and specialist events such as live action history and lectures from university lecturers
A rainy day in November saw us visit The Commandery and it was a good experience. Informative staff and no other visitors so we had the unexpectedly large building to ourselves. Some people might find it boring but this rambling structure is full of history and each room had a story to tell from medieval times to the twentieth century. There us a lift to the upper levels and there is a great little cafe which offers wonderful cakes and tasty tea.
I go here regular to relax. It's a fabulous place with great cakes and coffee. Pete does a wicked salad in the summer and lovely soups in the winter. Gemma make the most amazing cakes. Highly recommended for locals and visitors a like
Beautiful building, unfortunately was on a tight schedule to make a proper visit. (2019) On a visit to Worcester, I had time to visit and view the museum, a wonderful piece of history, looking back at the buildings history, especially at the Civil War. (2022)
The Commandery is located at Sidbury, Worcester WR1 2HU, UK
You can contact The Commandery at +44 1905 361821
You can find directions to The Commandery by following this map link