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Visit Lichfield District - the perfect group destination
Lichfield District is nestled in the beautiful county of Staffordshire, just a short drive from England’s second city - Birmingham. With a bustling cosmopolitan city and stunning countryside, it’s a fantastic destination for a half-day tour, full-day tour or longer stay. With a history spanning back to Anglo-Saxon times, featuring tales of saints, gospels, playwrights, scientists and dictionaries, Lichfield is a history lover’s delight. Take in Dr Johnson’s Birthplace Museum and the home of Erasmus Darwin, or marvel at the splendour of Lichfield’s three spired medieval cathedral.
Whether your group is after excitement and adventure, or a calm contemplative break, you’ve picked the right destination. From seeing Lichfield Cathedral’s treasures and the breathtaking National Memorial Arboretum, through to experiencing the thrills and spills of Drayton Manor Theme Park, there’s so much to see and do. Always on hand with advice and planning
Our groups 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 coach parking, tours and restaurants, through to bespoke tour packages, including visits to nearby attractions, such as the National Memorial Arboretum, and Shugborough Estate. Call 01543 308210 or visit www.visitlichfield.co.uk/groups to find out more about this free service. www.visitlichfield.co.uk 1
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Visit Lichfield - an award winning city Lichfield is a favourite destination for coach parties and groups. It is the proud winner of the prestigious CPT Coach Friendly City Award and was also highly commended in the UK Coach Tourism Awards 2010. The city and district are rich with history, heritage and culture, so there is plenty to see and do for your group. From the magnificent Lichfield Cathedral to the impressive National Memorial Arboretum, Lichfield is a destination not to be missed! To help you plan your visit, call our groups officer on 01543 308210, who is more than happy to help you with ideas and to put a package together for you - all for free! Coach Parking We have five coach parking bays in the Birmingham Road Bus Station (a small charge applies) and another two loading and unloading bays on Beacon Street. Call 01543 308210 for more information. Familiarisation Visits Every year we organise several familiarisation visits for group organisers and coach companies, to give you a glimpse of what Lichfield has to offer.
City Tours Green Badge guided tours are an absolute must for those wishing to explore Lichfield. Our fully qualified Green Badge guides know more about the city than anyone else and are more than happy to share their knowledge with you. A range of themed tours are available (see pages 4 - 5). All tours can be tailored to your needs and can last from just an hour, up to a whole day. Some tours are available in overseas languages. City tours for groups are £3 per person based on minimum of 10 people. For more information and to book your tour call 01543 308210. Public tours can be booked through the award winning Tourist Information Centre on 01543 412112. For a full list of public tours request a copy of What’s On or visit www.visitlichfield.co.uk/tours
The Pride of Lichfield Friday 18 October 2013 Premier Heritage Day Out Friday 4 April 2014 For more information, or to book your space, call our groups officer on 01543 308210 or email jonathan.oates@lichfielddc.gov.uk
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Tours available for Group Organisers and Coach Operators in 2013/14 A Premier Day Out - Full day tour Start your day off in style with morning tea or coffee in the beautiful Cathedral Close. This full day visit includes a guided tour of Lichfield Cathedral and of the city. Wings of a Dove - Full day tour To include a guide courier
This tour combines the themes of hope, peace and humanity - bringing together the social and military history of conflict from 1914 to the present day. You will visit the Staffordshire Regiment Museum, the National Memorial Arboretum, the Commonwealth and German War Graves and the Museum of Cannock Chase. There is also the option to have either lunch or afternoon tea ‘40s style’ at the Roman Way Hotel, Cannock. Heritage and Honour - Full day tour To include a guide courier
Experience the historic splendour of the area. Sample the delights of two of the following three destinations - Lichfield’s stunning medieval cathedral, the breathtaking National Memorial Arboretum, or Tamworth Castle, that is steeped in history and heritage. And, why not add to your day with a fascinating walking tour of Tamworth or Lichfield?
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A Tale of Two Lichfield’s Visit two of Staffordshire’s most stunning buildings Lichfield Cathedral and Shugborough. This tour includes lunch and refreshments. Blood Thirsty Lichfield This thrilling tour, designed especially for children, is ideal for cubs, brownies and school groups. Please ensure all children are accompanied by adults, group leaders or teachers. Alrewas Village 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. 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 all about the bloody battles that ensued and the events that had a huge impact on the city and left the cathedral in ruins.
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Secret Gardens of Lichfield Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Lichfield’s green heart. Parks, green spaces and secret gardens, hidden away from the bustle of the city, are yours to explore. Behind Close Doors Find out about the people who live and have lived in The Close, which surrounds the magnificent cathedral. For Lovers of Romance Find out about the romantic liaisons of some of Lichfield’s most famous sons and daughters! Boobies and Blockheads Find out about Dr Samuel Johnson’s Lichfield - the city he would have known and loved. 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 notable characters, including Erasmus Darwin, David Garrick, Samuel Johnson and Anna Seward, this tour charts their history. Heritage Trail Lichfield is one of the smallest cathedral cities in England and has a rich and varied past. This walk follows Lichfield’s fascinating trail of history and heritage - from architecture to markets, and inns to beautiful parks. Tavern Tales This tour will amaze you with some of the tales about the pubs of yesterday and the changes today.
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Gruesome and Ghostly Available from September to March
This spooky tour will make your blood curdle and spine tingle - not suitable for the faint hearted! It is rounded off with a visit to a local pub for a glass of mulled wine and a sausage roll.
Eating, drinking & shopping Why not relax and recharge at one of Lichfield’s cafés and restaurants. Enjoy Mediterranean fare, with stunning waterside views of the Cathedral at Ego, home cooked Italian delights at Ristorante Sorrento, or a traditional British menu at the George Hotel. Or, for a lighter bite, why not pop to the coffee shop within St Mary’s on the Market Square or the Lichfield Garrick Green Room for afternoon tea and cake? If you enjoy a spot of shopping, why not wander down our quaint shopping streets including Dam Street, Market Street, Tudor Row and the Corn Exchange. For popular high street names pop to the Three Spires Shopping Centre, including the new Debenhams store opening in Spring 2013. And, if you love markets, why not pick up a bargain on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays on Market Square, or head to our delightful Farmers’ market on the first Thursday of every month (except January). To plan your day out in Lichfield District, all you have to do is call our groups officer on 01543 308210, and we’ll do all the hard work for you!
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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.
.. . .. .
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 Kempe and Clayton & Bell glass Sculptures by Sir Jacob Epstein and Sir Francis Chantrey
. . .
Facilities
Browse in the Cathedral shop or relax in ‘Chapters’ coffee shop School tours are our speciality - please download the Schools Pack from www.lichfield-cathedral.org Explore the historic city of Lichfield with attractions and shops all within easy walking distance
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Experience and explore this centre of Christian worship with a fully trained Cathedral guide. Specialist tours include The Close tour, Stained Glass, the Life of St Chad and the Treasures of Lichfield Cathedral. Download the Group Visits pack from www.lichfield-cathedral.org
In 2009 Lichfield Cathedral achieved two prestigious forms of accreditation to acknowledge the quality of the school visits and other educational activities we facilitate: the ‘Sandford Award’ from the Heritage Education Trust and the ‘Learning Outside the Classroom’ quality badge issued by the Council for Learning outside the Classroom. For further information contact: The Education & Outreach Office e: education@lichfield-cathedral.org t: 01543 306240
Group Tour Times
Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday 12 noon - 2pm
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Chasewater Railway, Brownhills - The Colliery Line Brownhills West Station Chasewater Country Park, Nr Burntwood (A5), Staffordshire WS8 7NL
t: 01543 452623 e: info@chasewaterrailway.co.uk www.chasewaterrailway.org
The volunteer-run Chasewater Railway operates vintage steam and diesel trains in Chasewater Country Park. Accredited museum of narrow gauge miner’s railway. Model railway, tea room and gift shops. Special events and galas throughout the year. The Sidings Tea Room serves breakfasts and hot meals. Also carvery Sundays and Thursdays. Check our website for timetable information.
Open: Saturdays & Sundays from Easter - October and Sundays in November (excluding 24th). Bank holidays and selected mid- weekdays (see website). The Sidings Tea Room is open Wednesday - Sunday.
All stations and trains are accessible for disabled visitors. Free coach parking is available by prior booking. See our website for more information.
Admission: Adult
£3.95, Child £2.95, Family Ticket (2 adults and 2 children) £9.95. Small extra charge for narrow gauge railway (per trip) Adult £1 & child 50p. Santa Specials throughout December. Trains/guided tours available on other days by prior arrangement.
Ristorante Sorrento, Lichfield 28 Bird Street, Lichfield t: 01543 300789 Staffordshire WS13 6PR f: 01543 300789 www.sorrento-italian-restaurant.co.uk Restaurant - Italian
Ristorante Sorrento, now established in Lichfield for five years, is the only authentic Italian family restaurant in Lichfield. Umberto & Vicenzo welcome you to sample a wide selection of authentic Italian dishes which include pasta, fresh fish and meat dishes, all freshly prepared to order. Daily specials and blackboard are always available to tempt you. Private parties and groups can be catered for including special occasions, wedding receptions etc. A special set menu can be arranged for groups and private parties.
Lunches Wednesday to Saturday, set menu £9.50 two courses, £7.50 one course. Sunday lunch £14.95 two courses. Evenings Monday to Thursday, set menu £14.95 two courses. Opening times: Lunch
Wednesday to Saturday 12noon-2.15pm last orders Sunday 12 noon - 4pm last orders Evening
Monday to Saturday 6pm-10.30pm last orders Open from 5.50pm for pre-theatre menu, call for details. Maximum seating: 70
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The George Hotel, Lichfield
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 Lichfield Garrick theatre. Enjoy the well equipped bedrooms (most are air conditioned), carvery restaurant and cosy lounge bar for snacks and afternoon teas. The
Weekend group rates start at just £42 per person for Bed & Breakfast and £52 per person for Dinner, Bed & Breakfast. Please contact us for details of our special midweek group rates. A £20 supplement will apply Monday - Thursday on single rooms.
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 and theatrical evenings.
BEST WESTERN The George Hotel is part of Webb Hotels & Travel. www.webbhotelsandtravel.co.uk
The Hedgehog, Lichfield Stafford Road, Lichfield t: 01543 415789 Staffordshire WS13 8JB e: hedgehoglichfield@vintageinn.co.uk
The Hedgehog in Lichfield is a country pub and restaurant oozing rural charm and rustic character. Our picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for savouring the hearty, seasonal pub-food on our menu, and the carefully nurtured cask ales and fine wines gracing our bar. Originally called Lyncroft House the now beautifully restored pub sits in its own grounds and large gardens, with ample off-road free parking, with space for coaches.
Built in 1797, 13 years after the death of Lichfield’s most famous son, Dr Samuel Johnson, the building retains its character thanks to a recent £1m restoration project. The Hedgehog is located close to the city centre and has easy access to the National Memorial Arboretum, Shugborough and the Staffordshire Regiment Museum. Opening times:
Monday to Sunday: 8am-11pm
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Three Spires Shopping Centre, Lichfield Management Office t: 01543 417413 12 Gresley Row, Lichfield f: 01543 417406 Staffordshire WS13 6JF e: lisa.prokopiou@threespireslichfield.uk.com www.threespireslichfield.com
Located in the heart of Lichfield City centre, Three Spires Shopping Centre combines a mixture of high street stores and independent retailers, plus ample parking spaces nearby, making it a great place to shop, meet friends and relax. The shopping on offer includes: Debenhams, M&S Simply Food,
Costa Coffee, Argos, WHSmith, Body Shop, Olivers Jewellers, Game and Two Seasons. So make Three Spires your number one choice. We look forward to seeing you here soon! Open:
Monday - Saturday 9am-5.30pm Sunday 10am-4pm
T H R E E
S P I R E S
S H O P P I N G
The Green Room at the Garrick, Lichfield Castle Dyke Lichfield WS13 6HR
t: 01543 412121 e: garrick@lichfieldgarrick.com
Bar & café
Ideally located with coach loading bay directly outside.
Open to everyone, The Green Room serves freshly prepared homemade food and offers a wide range of hot and cold drinks.
Open:
10am-late (performance days) 10am-3pm (non-performance days)
Table bookings accepted call 01543 412121.
Holiday Inn Express, Lichfield Wall Island, Birmingham Rd, t: 01543 482700 Shenstone Lichfield, f: 01543 483106 Staffordshire WS14 0QP e: reservations@hiexpresslichfield.co.uk www.hiexpressbirminghamlichfield.co.uk
Holiday Inn Express Lichfield is situated by major road networks (M6 Toll, A5 & A38), for easy access to the hotel. The hotel offers Accommodation Twin ensuite 36 Double ensuite 66 Single occupancy of twin/double Family ensuite (2 adults, 2 children) Weekend rates available
Tariff from £59 from £59 from £59 from £59 from £39
great value for money with complimentary ‘Express start’ breakfast with hot items, whilst kids stay free when sharing parents’ room. The hotel is an ideal base when visiting the nearby attractions, ie Drayton Manor Theme Park, or friends and family in the area. www.visitlichfield.co.uk 17
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62 Beacon Street, Lichfield WS13 7AR www.cathedrallodgehotel.com t: 01543 414500 e: enquiries@cathedrallodgehotel.com Family run hotel specialising in group bookings. Set in the heart of Lichfield, just a short walk from the city centre and 300 yards from the magnificent cathedral. 36 ensuite comfortable rooms with flat screen Plasma TVs and free wireless internet. All rooms are ensuite with power shower over bath, tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel offers a comfortable licensed bar and restaurant offering a two course £9.99 specials menu and à la carte menu. Our friendly staff will ensure your stay is relaxing and comfortable. Newly refurbished conference/function rooms can accommodate up to 150 people. The hotel is ideally located for groups visiting the National Memorial Arboretum, Whittington Barracks and ideally situated from the major motorways and surrounding areas central to the Midlands, including the NEC and NIA. We are approximately 25 miles from East Midlands and Birmingham airports. Discounts for large groups are available; please contact the hotel for prices. 24 rooms per night + free driver. Accommodation
Tariff
Double rooms 16 £45 - £95 Family & premier rooms 20 £45 - £95
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Designed and produced by Lichfield District Council March 2013. Photography by Lichfield Camera Club and by kind permission of The Lichfield Mercury. Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this brochure at the time of publication (March 2013). 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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