Visit Lichfield District the perfect group destination Nestled in the heart of the country, just north of Birmingham, Lichfield District has something to suit all tastes.
Lichfield District really is at the heart of things and has so much to see and do. From the breathtaking National Memorial Arboretum, and the thrills and spills of Drayton Manor Park, through to discovering more about the secrets of the Staffordshire Hoard, which was found just outside of Lichfield City. As Staffordshire’s premier heritage city, Lichfield is a visitor’s delight. With great museums and stunning historical buildings, all in easy walking distance - from Dr Johnson’s Birthplace, and the home of Erasmus Darwin, through to the city’s most famous landmark - the breathtaking Lichfield Cathedral.
A warm welcome With a Silver Service Mark for customer service, and a past winner of the Coach Tourism Awards, we’re sure to give you a warm welcome. Our Tourist Information Centre is located in the Lichfield Garrick, so make sure to visit us when you arrive.
knowledge with you. See pages 4 - 7 to find out more about the range of tours on offer. All tours can be tailored to your needs, and can last from just an hour to a whole day. Some tours are available in overseas languages.
A helping hand - whatever your enquiry Our Travel Trade Officer is on hand to help plan your visit and make sure you get the most out of your time with us. From advice on parking, tours and restaurants, through to designing bespoke tour packages, including tours with nearby attractions, such as the National Memorial Arboretum and Shugborough Hall.
Call 01543 308216 to find out more about this free service.
Green Badge guided tours An absolute must for those wishing to explore Lichfield! Our fully qualified guides know more about the city than anyone else and are happy to share their 1
An angel, a book and a crock of gold
New tour for 2010
To celebrate the stunning find of Anglo-Saxon gold just outside of Lichfield, we’ve teamed up with Lichfield Cathedral to offer this new tour. Taking in the city and Lichfield Cathedral, it will offer visitors a glimpse into the thrilling history of the Staffordshire Hoard - a time of battles, honour, plunder and warfare that marked the country’s thorny transition from paganism to Christianity.
Here’s a taster: Following the death of St Chad in 672AD, Lichfield was reborn as an ecclesiastical centre. In 2003, excavations in the Nave of the Cathedral uncovered remains of a Saxon Church and the Lichfield Angel, which is believed to be part of St Chad’s Shrine built in 700. Around this time, the stunning Staffordshire Hoard, reputed to be ‘the equivalent of finding a new Lindisfarne Gospels or Book of Kells’ was buried near the city, possibly after a battle between warring kingdoms. There were three Christian crosses, discovered as part of the hoard. Two were bent into folds, as was a strip of gold with a biblical inscription in Latin, ‘Rise up, O Lord, and may they enemies be dispersed and those who hate thee be driven from thy face’.
But, why were the crosses folded? Who wanted the inscription and why? Why was the hoard buried? And, what are the stories of the people and places behind the find?
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According to Dr Leahy, from the British Museum, the history behind the hoard and how it came to be buried just outside Lichfield ‘will be debated for decades’. So, come along and join in the debate on this thrilling tour. This tour will take in the delights of the city, and will explore the important role Lichfield Cathedral and the St Chad Gospels played in Anglo-Saxon Britain.
To find out more, call our Travel Trade Officer on 01543 308216. We will also be offering tours linking Lichfield to Tamworth, the Ancient Seat of Mercia.
Hoard images courtesy of www.staffordshirehoard.org.uk
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Guided Tours available in 2010 We offer a wide range of fantastic Green Badge guided tours throughout the year, including the much loved Gruesome & Ghostly tours, as well as Blood Thirsty Lichfield, which gives children (and adults) a thrilling insight into Lichfield’s past.
Blood Thirsty Lichfield - designed with children in mind This thrilling tour, designed especially for children, is back due to popular demand. This tour is ideal for cubs, brownies and school groups, and children must be accompanied by the appropriate number of adults. The Tale of Three Poets In 1767 Samuel Johnson received a pension from the king, which enabled him to travel more. That same year he stayed in Lichfield, where Erasmus Darwin was a well established physician in the city. Anna Seward knew both men and wrote a ‘mutual and strong dislike subsisted between them’. Find out about the life of these three well revered poets. Alrewas Village Tour A walking tour around this pretty and historic village. Take in the canal side walk and visit the church to ‘Look for the mole’. This tour is a must for history lovers. Pubs, Priests and Prostitutes This tour provides a very different look at Lichfield’s history. Hear about some of the city’s historic and interesting characters. Find out about the Franciscan Friary founded in 1230 and destroyed on the orders of Henry VIII in 1538. Explore Lichfield Water and Pools The magnificent Minster and Stowe Pools are fed by two streams. This walk follows the source of the pools, and on the way you’ll hear about the Conduit Lands Trust, which was set up to look after the supplies of fresh water to the city, plus lots of snippets of local history. Gruesome and Ghostly This spooky tour will make your blood curdle and your spine tingle - and is not for the faint hearted among us. The tour is rounded off with a visit to a local pub for a glass of mulled wine and a sausage roll. Only available from September to March. 4
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These tours can be booked through the award winning Tourist Information Centre on 01543 412112.
Tavern Tales This tour will amaze you with some of the tales about the pubs of yesterday, and the changes today. Stroll Around the Gardens of Lichfield Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Lichfield’s heart. Park’s, green spaces and secret gardens, hidden away from the bustle of the city, are yours to explore. The Civil War in Lichfield This walk circles The Close and tells you all about the Civil War in Lichfield from the moment the citizens were summoned to the Guildhall to hand in their weapons. Hear about the bloody battles that ensued and the events that had a huge impact on the city and left the cathedral in ruins. Georgian Gems In the 18th century Lichfield was a leading intellectual and cultural centre, and prospered from its central location on busy coaching routes. Home to many famous people, including Erasmus Darwin, David Garrick, Samuel Johnson and Anna Seward, this tour charts their history.
Private tours for groups cost £2.95 per person, based on a minimum of 12 people. For more information and to book your tour call 01543 308216. Self guided tours Heritage Trail and Children’s Heritage Trail Lichfield is one of the smallest cathedral cities in England and has a rich and varied past. These self guided walks follow Lichfield’s fascinating trail of history and heritage, from architecture to markets, and inns to beautiful parks. Each trail has a full colour leaflet available from the Tourist Information Centre for a small cost. The children’s trail, was recognised as a top day out by The Little Chef in 2009, and asks children to answer fun and fascinating questions about the city. A guide can also be booked to accompany the children’s trail. www.visitlichfield.co.uk
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Suggested Itineraries To make life a little easier for you, we have put a few packages together to give you an idea of what’s available. Please note that all costs listed are per person, based on a minimum of 12 people unless otherwise stated.
A Civil War Experience
Perfect for history lovers, this full day visit includes a guided tour of the cathedral and city. Cup of tea or coffee Guided tour of Lichfield Cathedral Free time for lunch or shopping Green Badge guided tour of your choice Cup of tea or coffee Cost adults £11.20 Senior Citizens £10.70
Perfect for all Civil War history lovers. Cup of tea or coffee and biscuits at the Heritage Centre Visit the Lichfield Heritage Centre Free time for lunch or shopping Green Badge Guided tour - Civil War theme Cup of tea or coffee Cost £8.80
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Lichfield Treasures Perfect for lovers of fine art. Cup of tea or coffee Guided tour of Lichfield Cathedral to include the silver collection Free time for lunch or shopping Visit the Lichfield Heritage Centre Cup of tea or coffee and biscuits Cost adults £10.60 Senior Citizens £10.10
City of Philosophers
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A fascinating tour to find out more about the life and times of members of the notable Lunar Society. Guided tour of Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, including tea or coffee Visit Erasmus Darwin House Green Badge guided tour of your choice Cost £7.45 6
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A Premier Heritage Day Out
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A Tale of Two Lichfield’s
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Option one Visit two of Staffordshire’s most stunning buildings. Cup of tea or coffee in the Close Guided tour of Lichfield Cathedral Lunch at Shugborough Hall Visit Shugborough Hall Cost £17
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Option two Visit one of Staffordshire’s most stunning buildings and historic cities. Cup of tea or coffee in the Close Guided tour of Lichfield City Lunch at Shugborough Hall Visit Shugborough Hall Cost £14.95
To book your day out in Lichfield District, contact our Travel Trade Officer on 01543 308216, and we’ll do all the hard work for you!
Heritage and Honour Experience the splendour of Lichfield Cathedral, the history of Tamworth Castle and reflect on the symbolism of the National Memorial Arboretum.
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Option one Visit the National Memorial Arboretum Cup of tea or coffee and biscuits Guided tour of Lichfield Cathedral Lunch in the Cathedral Close Guided tour of Tamworth Castle including tea or coffee Cost includes Guide Courier Prices to be confirmed
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Option two Cup of tea or coffee and biscuits Guided tour of the Cathedral Visit the National Memorial Arboretum Lunch - either bring your own picnic or pre-order a Ration Pack (additional ÂŁ6 per person) before arrival A guided tour of Tamworth Castle including tea or coffee Cost includes Guide Courier Prices to be confirmed
Please note that the cost of all tours does not include coach hire either to or between venues.
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Suggested Itineraries To book your day out in Lichfield District, contact our Travel Trade Officer on 01543 308216, and we’ll do all the hard work for you! Wings of a Dove This tour combines a message of hope, peace and trials of humanity - bringing together the social and military history of conflict from 1914 to the present day.
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Option one Visit the Staffordshire Regimental Museum Visit the National Memorial Arboretum Cup of tea or coffee and biscuits Lunch - either bring your own picnic or pre-order a Ration Pack (additional £6 per person) before arrival Visit Commonwealth & German War Graves Visit the Museum of Cannock Chase Cup of tea or coffee Cost includes Guide Courier £11.20 (based on a min. group of 20)
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Option two Visit the National Memorial Arboretum Cup of tea or coffee and biscuits Lunch - either bring your own picnic or pre-order a Ration Pack (additional £6 per person) before arrival Visit the Staffordshire Regiment Museum Visit Commonwealth & German War Graves Cup of tea or coffee at the Roman Way Hotel in Cannock Cost includes Guide Courier Cost to be confirmed
Familiarise yourself We hold several familiarisation visits for group organisers and coach companies. These give you a taster of the delights we have to offer. The first visit of the year will be held on Friday 12 March 2010. Coach parking All our coach parking is great value and centrally located, within easy reach of the main city attractions. Choose from long-stay spaces, and dropping off and collecting points. When you book your coach parking space in advance, we’ll send you maps and driver discount vouchers.
Please note that the cost of all tours does not include coach hire either to or between venues. 8
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Lichfield Cathedral - standing elegantly in South Staffordshire, Britain’s only medieval three-spired cathedral is the glory of early English architecture and a treasure trove of international importance.
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Enjoy your visit and see for yourself St Chad Gospels from the 8th century The ‘Lichfield Angel’ carving The 1660 ‘Hacket Silver’ and the 1991 ‘Lang Collection’ Three rare medieval wall paintings 16th century Flemish ‘Herkenrode’ windows (please note restoration on this treasure commenced in April 2009)
Kempe and Clayton & Bell glass Sculptures by Sir Jacob Epstein and Sir Francis Chantrey
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Facilities
Browse in the Cathedral gift and book shop or relax in ‘Chapters’ coffee shop Group catering is our speciality
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Explore the historic city of Lichfield with attractions and shops all within easy walking distance
Group Tour Times
Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday 12 noon - 2pm Choose from a standard or a specialist tour with a fully trained Cathedral guide. Specialist tours include Spire Climbs, The Close tour, Stained Glass, the Life of St Chad and the Treasures of Lichfield Cathedral. 2009 Group Tour Rates from
Adults £5 (+ VAT) Concessions £4.50 (+ VAT) School children £3 (+ VAT) For further information contact: Sue Evans (Education and Outreach Officer) e: sue.evans@lichfield-cathedral.org t: 01543 306240
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Lichfield Markets Rachel Clive – Markets Officer, Lichfield City Council 53 Wade Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6HL t: 01543 309853 e: markets@lichfield.gov.uk www.lichfield.gov.uk
Weekly General Market Tuesday, Friday & Saturday A wide range of quality items and fresh produce at value-for-money prices available from established market traders. Time: 9am-4pm Monthly Farmers’ Market First Thursday of the month (except January). An established Farmers’ Market with a wide selection of fresh tempting produce – locally grown, baked, brewed or pickled! Plus art and craft stalls and seasonal demonstrations. Time: 9am-3pm Venue: Market Square, Lichfield
Coach parking nearby on Birmingham Road Bus Station (see city map pages 10/11). A must market visit for all groups with level access for wheelchairs. Interesting and varied stalls in a pleasant central location.
Chasewater Railway Brownhills West Station, Chasewater Country Park, Brownhills, Staffordshire WS8 7NL t: 01543 452623 f: 01922 648380 Group bookings: 01543 679548 e: info@chaserail.com www.chaserail.com
The volunteer-run Chasewater Railway operates vintage steam and diesel trains in Chasewater Country Park, just off the A5. Trains run between Brownhills West and Chasetown (Church St.) with stations at Norton Lakeside and Chasewater Heaths (adjacent to the Burntwood Bypass). Operating dates: Sundays & Bank Holiday
Mondays from 28 February to 28 November. Also Saturdays from 22 May to 11 September. Tuesdays & Thursdays from 27 July to 2 September 2009, and on Wednesdays during the school holiday period.
Admission: Adult £3.45, Child £2.45. Family Ticket (2 adults and up to 4 children) £8.45. Tickets valid for unlimited rides on day of issue. Group rates on application.
Coach parking available at Brownhills West and Chasewater Heaths Stations. All stations and trains are accessible for disabled visitors.
Santa Specials throughout December. Check our website for timetable information. www.visitlichfield.co.uk 17
Ristorante Sorrento
28 Bird Street, Lichfield t: 01543 300789 Staffordshire WS13 6PR f: 01543 300789 www.sorrento-italian-restaurant.co.uk guaranteed warm Italian Restaurant - Italian hospitality. Groups welcome. Ristorante Sorrento now established Please ring for special group in Lichfield for 212 years. Umberto & menus. Lunch meals from £6.95, Vincenzo welcome you to sample a 2 course lunch from £7.95, wide selection of authentic Italian dishes which include pasta, fresh fish Special evening menu - 2 courses £14.94 and meat dishes, all freshly prepared to order. Daily specials Maximum seating: 70 are always available to tempt you. Open: Lunchtimes Tuesday to Vegetarian dishes are also available Saturday 12noon-2pm. Evenings Monday to Saturday and there is a delicious selection of 6pm-10.30pm. Open from 5.30pm home-made desserts. Fine wines are for pre-theatre menu. Sunday open on the menu to compliment your only for large booked private favourite dish and of course you are parties.
The Green Room at the Garrick Castle Dyke Lichfield WS13 6HR
t: 01543 412121 e: garrick@lichfieldgarrick.com
Bar, café & wine bar
Enjoy free live music every Friday from 4.45pm-6.45pm
With hot and cold food served every day, fully stocked bar and Fairtrade tea and coffee, there’s never been a better time to come to the Green Room at the Garrick. Ideally located with coach loading bay directly outside.
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Open:
10am-late (performance days) 10am-5pm (non- performance days)
Open for all special occasions. No smoking, major credit cards accepted, children and groups welcome. Coach parties welcome by prior arrangement. Coach loading bay nearby. Good friendly atmosphere - good value fresh food.
Best Western The George Hotel Bird Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6PR www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk t: 01543 414822 f: 01543 415817 e: mail@thegeorgelichfield.co.uk
A charming 18th century coaching inn set in the heart of Lichfield, just a short walk from the Cathedral and the Garrick Theatre. Enjoy the well equipped bedrooms (most are air conditioned), carvery restaurant and cosy lounge bar for snacks and afternoon teas. The magnificent Regency Garrick room and adjoining private bar caters for private dining of up to 100 guests. Free wi-fi internet access in all bedrooms and public areas. Regular Murder Mystery evenings.
Special weekend rates available*. Accommodation Single ensuite 12 Twin ensuite 8 Double ensuite 25 Single occupancy of twin/double Family ensuite by arrangement (sleeps 3-4) Four Poster Rooms
Tariff £50-£130 £68-£130 £68-£130 £68-£130 £88-£130 £150
All rates include full English breakfast. *subject to availability
Best Western The George Hotel is part of Webb Hotels & Travel. www.webbhotelsandtravel.co.uk
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Cedar Tree Hotel Main Road, Brereton, Rugeley Staffordshire WS15 1DY www.cedartreehotel.com t: 01889 584241 e: enquiries@cedartreehotel.com
The Cedar Tree is situated just 5 miles down the A51 Straight road from the attractive city of Lichfield and is an attractive alternative to Lichfield Hotel All Rooms are Comfortable and excellently equipped having, colour TV with sky sports, free wireless internet, tea and coffee making facilities, all rooms are ensuite with shower or bath. The Hotel offers a comfortable licensed bar and superb restaurant: our friendly staff will ensure your stay is relaxing and comfortable.
The Hotel is ideally located for Groups visiting the national arboretum, also an ideal venue for conferences discounts for large groups are available please contact hotel for prices. Accommodation Tariff Single room 12 £59.50 Double room 25 £69.50 Double room no breakfast subject to availability £69.50
Cathedral Lodge Hotel Cathedral Lodge Hotel 62 Beacon Street, Lichfield WS13 7AR www.cathedrallodgehotel.com t: 01543 414500 e: enquiries@cathedrallodgehotel.com
Set in the heart of Lichfield, just a short walk from the city centre and 300 yards from the magnificent Cathedral. The hotel is ideally located for groups visiting The hotel offers newly refurbished rooms with flat the National Memorial Arboretum, Whittington Barracks and ideally situated screen Plasma TVs with sky channels and free from the major motorways and surrounding wireless internet, all rooms are en-suite with power shower over bath, tea and coffee making facilities. areas central to the midlands including the NEC and NIA. The hotel offers a comfortable licensed bar and restaurant offering a two course £9.99 specials Discounts for large groups are available; menu and a la carte menu, our friendly please contact the hotel for prices. staff will ensure your stay is relaxing and Accommodation Tariff comfortable. Single room Double room
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£65.00 £79.50
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Designed and produced by Lichfield District Council February 2010. Photography by tomallwood.com, Chris Findon - Red-Devil Photography and by kind permission of The Lichfield Mercury. Copyright of maps to Malcolm Barnes, Cartographer. No copying or reproduction without prior permission. Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this brochure at the time of publication (February 2010). However Lichfield District Council cannot be held responsible for any loss or disappointment arising from misinterpretation or any error, omission or subsequent change of information. Project part-financed by the European Union
European Regional Development fund
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