Arches Worcester – perfect playground for city students

One area which is in a unique position to cater for students is The Arches-Worcester (www.thearchesworcester.co.uk), a series of Victorian railway bridges which are being regenerated and turned in to a new cultural quarter, thanks to an investment of over £3 million from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

The Arches run between Foregate Street train station and Worcester’s riverside, and also lie at the foot of The Hive (www.thehiveworcester.org), the University and County Council-run public library.

With The Hive open until 10pm seven days a week, students can work hard and play hard – unwinding after their studies in one of a number of venues located in The Arches.

Liv Cartwright, employee at Axe Junkies, assists Cllr Lucy Hodgson

Daniel Charlton, owner of Axe Junkies (https://axejunkies.co.uk) is looking forward to introducing more students to the art of urban axe throwing.

Axe Junkies offers people the opportunity to let it all out as they hone their skills in throwing an axe at something akin to an oversized darts board. 

The Centre, which opened less than four months ago, has already established itself as a mecca for those seeking a fun night out.

“We hosted 18 members of the university’s netball team last night, and we’re popular with couples out on their first date,” Daniel explained to Cllr Lucy Hodgson, Chair of the City Council’s Place and Economic Development Committee, on a recent visit.

“Our customers range from 10 to 90 in age; we get lots of families in and we’ve had three different scout groups come for a visit.  We’re already nearly fully booked for Christmas!”

Detroit pizza on offer at Sangers

A couple of doors along at Arch no.3 is Sangers Deli – (www.sangers-deli.com), which opened its doors in May under the stewardship of John Clark and  Worcester Warriors players Ethan Waller and Niall Annett.

The venue is offering 10 per cent off all products on production of a valid student card – as do the nearby Burger Shop Worcester (https://aruleoftum.com/burgershopworc) and new Japanese restaurant Maneki Ramen (https://manekiramen.com) at Arch no. 45.

 “We offer the sort of food that students crave – including Detroit-style pizza and the Steak and Cheese Sanger – roasted topside topped off with onion chutney, cheese and garlic aioli,” explains Ethan. 

“There’s also a great range of vegan and vegetarian options too.”

A few seconds’ walk and you’re back at The Arch Rivals Micro Pub and Brewery (www.facebook.com/ArchRivalsWorcester), which recently celebrated its third birthday. 

The venue runs quiz nights every Thursday at 7.30pm and regular comedy nights, which are already building up a loyal following amongst locals.

Cllr Lucy Hodgson with Jack, owner of Archworks

Much of the success of The Arches is down to the way that its businesses pull together and support one another.  For example recent arrival Archworks, which offers bespoke furniture, has crafted unique and quirky benches, tables and shelves for neighbouring businesses including the Method Coffee Bar and Roastery (www.methodroastery.com) and Burger Shop at Arch no. 43 (https://aruleoftum.com/burgershopworc).

“I’m happy to talk to students about making bookshelves, tables, benches and other products,” says 27-year-old Jack, who runs the business.  “I use local wood so my products not only look good but are very sustainable.”

So whether you’re studying in Worcester or just want to explore a fresh new side of the city, The Arches is the place to socialise this autumn.