Lichfield

Lichfield offers a range of ways to shape a trip: sacred art and medieval history, homes connected to famous figures, cultural venues and open spaces. If you’re looking for a hotel in Lichfield, you can plan your stay around the topics that interest you most. The following places showcase this variety, from historical collections to seasonal activities on the water.

Cathedral and historic houses

Lichfield Cathedral is home to the “Lichfield Angel,” a sculpture from the 8th century. The cathedral’s treasures also include the St Chad Gospels, which date from Anglo-Saxon times. Another link to the cathedral’s history is the Shrine of St Chad: it became one of the country’s three most important medieval pilgrimage centres. The sculpture, gospels and pilgrimage history each represent different historical themes.

The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum is the former family home of the writer Samuel Johnson. Erasmus Darwin House is also located in Lichfield’s Cathedral Close. It is an independent, accredited museum that was once the family home of Erasmus Darwin. Younger visitors can enjoy the free Herb Garden Explorer Trail, which focuses on insects. This means a visit to the house can also include an activity specifically aimed at younger guests.

Industrial history and protected sites

Sandfields Pumping Station is a 19th-century complex listed as Grade II*. The Engine House at Sandfields Pumping Station is listed on the National Heritage List for England. It is usually open on Tuesday and Friday mornings from 10:00 to 12:00; during these times, volunteers may be able to give small groups of visitors a guided tour. As these are usual opening hours and tours for small groups, it is advisable to check the schedule before visiting.

At the Friary Remains, public garden use meets hidden history. The largely concealed remains are protected as a Scheduled Monument. Today, the Friary Remains are a public garden owned and managed by Lichfield City Council. The area around the remains was the site of a thriving monastery from 1237 to 1538; this historical statement refers to the area and not to the entirety of the present-day site.

Architecture, events and exploring the city

The present-day building of St Mary’s Church was completed in 1870 and built from Derbyshire sandstone. The Hub at St Mary’s includes a flexible 140-seat space for performances, art exhibitions and workshops. This place therefore brings together architectural history and a range of cultural uses.

Minster Pool Walk offers views across the pool to the Remembrance Gardens and towards Lichfield Cathedral. Speakers’ Corner Lichfield is located by Dam Street, along Minster Pool Walk. It opened in 2009 and has since been a venue for lively debates, celebrations and performances. Those interested in public culture will find a different focus here from that of the museums and historic buildings.

Lichfield Time Travellers is a smartphone-based walk through the city streets that introduces historical figures. At a dozen locations, you can open Time Portals by scanning your surroundings with a smartphone. The experience combines exploring the streets with a digital introduction to historical figures.

Parks and time on the water

Stowe Pool is a 14-acre body of water where sailing takes place during the summer months. Beacon Park covers more than 70 acres of gardens and open spaces and is easily reached from the city centre. It offers walking routes, golf, a children’s play area, crazy golf, tennis, basketball, bowls, Play-Disk and footgolf. For time outdoors, you can choose between seasonal sailing and a park with a range of leisure activities.

You can prioritise the themes that interest you: the cathedral and historic houses offer a different focus from the sites of industrial history, cultural attractions or open spaces. This makes it possible to plan a stay in Lichfield around history, exploring the city or outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations: Hopwas, Kinver, Dunston, Madeley, Brewood, Tutbury, Cannock, Long Compton

For the wider travel overview: Staffordshire.