Welcome to Lichf Lichfield is a picturesque, compact and historic city nestled in the heart of scenic Staffordshire, just a short drive from Birmingham. The city has a rich and thrilling history that is evident from the many heritage attractions, including its stunning three-spired cathedral and museums that celebrate the life and times of Dr Johnson, Erasmus Darwin, the Lunar Society and other notable characters.
Easy to reach Within easy access from the Midlands motorways and major roads, Lichfield is ideally situated. Turn to the back page for more travel info.
Fantastic festivals
Lichfield is fast becoming known as the festival city - from our world renowned Lichfield Festival in July, through to the much loved Food Festival in August, we’ve got a year round calendar of events to tempt you back again and again. See page 9 for more info.
Plan your trip
From booking guided tours through to restaurants, we can help you plan your trip. Call 01543 308210 or email jonathan.oates@lichfielddc.gov.uk
field District Design your visit
Why not pick a morning and afternoon activity from the list below and turn to pages 6 & 7 to select your lunchtime and evening meals.
Great days out Choose your attraction
Allow for your visit
Lichfield Cathedral 2 - 3 hours
Facilities onsite Guided Cathedral tours*, Library tours*, Herkenrode tours*, café, gift shop
National Memorial Arboretum
3 - 4 hours Guided* & self-guided tours, (15 mins drive café, gift shop, train tours*, to Lichfield City) coach parking
Erasmus Darwin House
1 - 2 hours
Museum, guided tours*, book & gift shop, refreshments on request*
Samuel Johnson 1 - 2 hours Birthplace Museum
Guided* & self-guided tours, book & gift shop
Lichfield Museum
2 - 3 hours
Café, tourist information, gift shop, chapel, spire climbs*
Curborough Hall Farm Countryside Centre
2 - 3 hours Tea rooms, shopping, falconry (10 mins drive centre*, angling on site, garden to Lichfield City) centre, coach parking
Arthur Price Factory Shop
1 - 2 hours Factory shop, talks*, (5 mins drive coach parking to Lichfield City)
Heart of The County Shopping Village
3 - 4 hours Unique shopping, crêperie (10 mins drive restaurant, woodland walk to Lichfield City) gallery, coach parking
Beacon Park
1 - 2 hours
www.lichfieldhistoricparks.co.uk
Café, golf, mini golf, pétanque, bowls, formal gardens, tennis, woodland walk & play area
City shops and restaurants
Unique & high street shopping, galleries, antiques, great eateries
3 - 4 hours
Atmospheric evenings Lichfield Garrick Theatre and music shows* *please book in advance
With great hotels, fantastic evening entertainment and eateries, why not extend your visit and pick from this table.
Lichfield Arts www.lichfieldarts.org.uk
Music performances and shows throughout the year*
The George Hotel
Darwin’s in-house restaurant and bar
The Cathedral Lodge Hotel
Onsite bar serving food *please book in advance
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Great to visit with a group Lichfield Cathedral Lichfield Cathedral
Visit Lichfield Cathedral and discover over 1,300 years of history in the only medieval three-spired cathedral in the UK! See a medieval wall painting, the Herkenrode stained glass, Lichfield Angel and more. The Close surrounding the Cathedral has its own story to tell, with picturesque gardens, stunning buildings and a vibrant history.
Open Monday to Friday 7am - 6.15pm, Saturday 8am - 6.15pm, Sunday 7.30am - 4.30pm (7.30am - 6.30pm in spring/summer) t 01543 306100 e enquiries@lichfield-cathedral.org www.lichfield-cathedral.org
National Memorial Arboretum The National Memorial Arboretum is the UK’s year-round centre of remembrance and home to the nationally-important Armed Forces Memorial. Situated alongside the river Tame, it features 150 acres of parkland, 30,000 maturing trees and over 300 memorials, each rich in symbolism and with a story waiting to be discovered. Open Everyday 9am - dusk t 01283 245143 e groups@thenma.org.uk www.thenma.org.uk
Erasmus Darwin House Stunning Georgian home of Erasmus Darwin, grandfather of Charles Darwin and leading 18th century doctor, scientist, botanist, inventor and poet. There's something for everyone in his restored Grade l listed home - period furnishings, interactive displays, video, and fun children's activities. There is a stunning herb garden inspired by Darwin’s 18th century botanic garden. Open Monday to Sunday 11am - 5pm (Apr - Oct) Thursday to Sunday 11am - 4pm (Nov - Mar) t 01543 306260 e enquiries@erasmusdarwin.org www.erasmusdarwin.org
Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum Explore the family home that inspired an 18th century literary giant. Five floors of displays in a beautiful historic building transport you through the life and times of Samuel Johnson, writer of the Dictionary of the English Language and famous wit. Entertaining guided tours available. Open Daily 10.30am - 4.30pm (Apr - Sept), 11am - 3.30pm (Oct - Mar). Late opening for groups available. Group capacity: 20 in each tour group t 01543 264972 e sjmuseum@lichfield.gov.uk www.samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk
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Great to visit with a group Drayton Manor Theme Park Make fun family memories with a thrilling group visit to Drayton Manor Park. With white knuckle rides, 15 acres’ zoo, a 4D Yogi Bear Cinema Adventure, and the newly expanded Thomas LandTM, two family restaurants and an onsite four star hotel, you need look no further for an awesome day out. Open March to October (selected dates see website for details). t 0844 4721950 e info@draytonmanor.co.uk www.draytonmanor.co.uk
Lichfield Museum Discover Lichfield in our museum and walk through 2,000 years of history, with artefacts, information boards and more. Climb our spire for spectacular views of the city and cathedral (booking essential). See our breathtaking collection of Lichfield silver. Or, why not take a break in our spacious cafĂŠ with home-made food cooked daily? More than a museum - a great place to visit with a group! Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 3.30pm t 01543 256611 e info@lichfieldheritage.org.uk www.stmaryslichfield.co.uk
Lichfield Garrick The Lichfield Garrick is a thriving theatre in the centre of Lichfield, attracting well over 100,000 people each year. Boasting an auditorium of 560 seats, a 150 seat studio theatre and a wide variety of entertainment to suit all - from comedy to drama, music to opera and dance to pantomime. Pick up your free theatre brochure at the Garrick or visit www.lichfieldgarrick.com Open 11am - late (performance days) 11am - 5pm (non-performance days) t 01543 412121 e garrick@lichfieldgarrick.com www.lichfieldgarrick.com
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Shopping in a group Heart of the Country Shopping Village Lichfield Cathedral
Heart of the Country is the original rural shopping village. Visitors can enjoy lunch in courtyards surrounded by flourishing fauna and gardens, take a relaxing stroll through woodland, and shop in peace. There is a large free car park with disabled parking on site. Groups and coaches are always welcome.
Open Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm t 01543 481612 e heartofthecountry@hotmail.com www.heartofthecountryvillage.com
Tudor Row Shops Step back in time along Lichfield’s Tudor Row and find a secret gem tucked away behind the Tudor of Lichfield on Bore Street. Tudor Row has a selection of 12 individual shops selling a variety of gifts and treats in a unique and charming setting not to be missed. For a refreshing break call into the Tudor of Lichfield (see page 7). Open Various times t 01543 263951 e row@tudor-lichfield.co .uk www.tudorrow.com
Arthur Price Visit the UK’s largest cutlery factory shop, with an unrivalled choice of fine cutlery and gifts, at prices you won’t find anywhere else! Free onsite parking with coaches welcome. Don’t miss our joint group visits, a tour of Lichfield Cathedral followed by a presentation and shopping experience at Arthur Price. Please note the factory shop is on the first floor. Open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm Saturdays 10am - 5pm t 01543 267324 e factory.shop@arthurprice.com www.arthurprice.com
Curborough Hall Farm Countryside Centre With plentiful free car parking and room for coaches, the Countryside Centre has a lovely range and mixture of businesses selling products such as antiques, furniture and bespoke gifts. There’s a farm shop, garden centre, talented artists and crafts people, as well as Mabel’s Tearoom. There is also a health and beauty section. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 4pm & Bank Holiday Mondays (closed Christmas to New Year) t 01543 262595 e curboroughcountrysidecentre@yahoo.co.uk www.curboroughcountrysidecentre.com
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Shopping in a group The Shop at No9, The Close The Shop at No.9 is a quaint and unique gift emporium positioned opposite Lichfield Cathedral. Come and explore our treasure chest of hand-picked goods and one-of-a-kind gifts including beautiful products for the home, locally produced treats to tickle your taste buds, and high quality souvenirs. Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am - 5pm Sunday 12 noon - 5pm t 01543 306150 e shop@lichfield-cathedral.org www.lichfield-cathedral.org
Lichfield Markets Every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday (except Spring Bank Holiday Tuesday) Lichfield’s Market square comes alive with the buzz of the flourishing traditional markets, with established market traders, selling a wide variety of quality items and fresh produce at value-for-money prices. A must for entertaining coach parties and groups. Open Tuesday, Friday & Saturday 9am - 4pm t 01543 309853 e markets@lichfield.gov.uk www.lichfield.gov.uk
Lichfield Farmers’ Markets Every first Thursday of the month (except January). A great visit for groups is our popular Farmers’ Market situated in the Market square in the centre of the city. Offering a wide selection of fresh tempting produce – locally grown, baked brewed or pickled! Plus art and craft stalls and seasonal demonstrations.
Open First Thursday of the month 9am - 3pm t 01543 309853 e markets@lichfield.gov.uk www.lichfield.gov.uk
Plant Plot Garden Centre The Plant Plot Garden Centre is the ideal stop off for your coach group. Our charming traditional nursery and award-winning coffee shop is situated on the outskirts of Lichfield, with easy access and spacious free parking - a perfect place for people who love their gardens. It also has a working model allotment, fresh home-grown plants and welcoming, knowledgeable staff. Open Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday 9.30am - 4.30pm t 01543 262805 e info@theplantplot.com www.theplantplot.com
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Eating in a group National Memorial Arboretum Located slightly north of Lichfield, just off the A38, the National Memorial Arboretum is the perfect place for groups to enjoy a wholesome lunch or afternoon tea. Two dining outlets are available: the Pavilion Lunch Room serving a warming daily roast and the CafĂŠ Bar offering a variety of homemade treats, tasty soups and quick snacks. Group dining packages are available. Open Lunch Room 11am - 3pm, CafĂŠ Bar 9am - 5pm t 01283 245143 e groups@thenma.org.uk www.thenma.org.uk
The Bowling Green Situated to the south side of the city centre, with easy access and free onsite parking for coaches. The Bowling Green offers a personal welcome, private function room, an excellent menu, with a delicious selection of morning coffee, tasty lunches and afternoon snacks. Great for a group looking for a shorter stop en route or full evening meal. Open 11am - midnight Capacity seated 50, casual 80 t 01543 257344 e bowlinggreenlichfield@emberinns.co.uk www.emberinns.co.uk
McKenzies Restaurant McKenzie's Restaurant is situated in the heart of Lichfield. It is a superb steak house restaurant, however it also offers other selections for non meat lovers. Aubrey Allen is their meat supplier and everything is made onsite or with agreement with suppliers for quality. It is ideal for any type of experience whether a quick brunch, lunch or the famous afternoon tea. Open Monday to Thursday 11am - 10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am - 11pm, Sunday 11am - 9pm t 01543 417371 e info@mckenziesrestaurant.com www.mckenziesrestaurant.com
The Malt Bar Centrally located and ideally situated for groups to grab a bite to eat before a performance at the Garrick Theatre. Malt Bar offers a comfortable and friendly family environment with wholesome homemade food, produced from locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by a selection of quality casks, beers, ciders and wines. Open Monday to Thursday 10.30am - 8.30pm, Friday & Saturday 10.30am - 9pm, Sunday midday - 6pm, 7pm on theatre evenings t 01543 415524 e info@themaltbarlichfield.co.uk www.themaltbarlichfield.co.uk
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Eating in a group Chapters ‘The Cafe in the Close’ Chapters, ‘The Café in The Close’ boasts a unique thirteenth century walled garden in an idyllic setting, as well as a delicious and varied menu. Enjoy locally sourced and freshly prepared dishes for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Gluten free diets are catered for, as are vegetarian and vegan. Open Monday to Saturday 9am - 4pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm. From 1 April Chapters will be open until 5pm Monday to Sunday Capacity 70 inside, 60 outside t 01543 306125 e chapters@lichfield-cathedral.org www.lichfield-cathedral.org
Ristorante Sorrento Ristorante Sorrento, now established in Lichfield for nine years, is the only authentic Italian family restaurant in the city. Umberto & Vincenzo welcome parties and groups to enjoy a wide selection of authentic Italian dishes, all freshly prepared to order, with daily specials available. Open Lunch - Wednesday to Saturday 12noon - 2.15pm Evening - Tuesday to Saturday 5pm - 10.30pm, Sunday open for special events & pre-booked parties Capacity 50 t 01543 3007890 www.sorrento-italian-restaurant.co.uk
Tudor of Lichfield Open to groups for morning coffee, lunches and afternoon teas. Lichfield’s historic (built 1510), licensed tea and coffee shop is one not to miss with your group. Make your visit extra special with a champagne breakfast or afternoon tea and choose gifts from our large selection of delicious luxury chocolates, novelties, biscuits, teas and jams. Open Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm t 01543 263951 e rest@tudor-lichfield.co.uk www.tudorrow.com
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Antique shopping in a group Richard Winterton Auctioneers Based in a modern city centre showroom, Richard Winterton is one of the UK's leading family-run auctioneers and valuers. Established in 1864 with a strong national and international reputation. Monthly auctions for affordable jewellery, gold, silver, pictures, ceramics, glass, collectables, furniture and furnishings. Open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm t 01543 251081 e lichfield@richardwinterton.co.uk www.richardwinterton.co.uk
Lichfield Antiques Centre This smart, modern centre featuring many times on BBC’s “Antiques Road Trip”, holds a wide range of vintage, antique, collectable and period items from up to 60 dealers. The ideal place to find that unique gift or special piece for your house. Find us at the entrance of the Bird Street car park - follow cathedral parking signs. Open 7 days a week: Monday to Friday 10am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 6pm, Sunday & bank holidays 11am - 5pm t 01543 416 306 e info@lichfieldantiquescentre.co.uk www.lichfieldantiquescentre.co.uk
Staying in a group BEST WESTERN The George Hotel
This charming 18th century coaching inn is set in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the cathedral. The hotel offers 46 well equipped bedrooms and a choice of dining options, including a cosy bar for snacks and afternoon teas, a lunchtime carvery and Darwin’s modern British restaurant. Open daily for food from 7am - 10pm Capacity 45 bedrooms, function suite - 100, restaurant - 60 t 01543 414822 e mail@thegeorgelichfield.co.uk www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk
The Cathedral Lodge Hotel The Cathedral Lodge is a friendly, family run hotel, specialising in group bookings. Set in the heart of the city and a short walk from the cathedral, guests enjoy comfortable, en-suite accommodation with restaurant and bar, free car and coach parking and Wi-Fi. Single occupancy, double, twin and family rooms available. Ideally situated for coach groups visiting the city centre, local attractions and events. Capacity 36 bedrooms, function suite - 150 people t 01543 414500 e enquiries@cathedrallodgehotel.com www.cathedrallodgehotel.com
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The Festival City January
august
Winter Beer Festival
Lichfield Food Festival
www.lichfieldarts.org.uk
www.lichfieldfood.co.uk
April
september
St George’s Court
Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park
www.lichfield.gov.uk
www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/proms
may
The Sheriff’s Ride
Lichfield Mysteries
www.lichfield.gov.uk
www.lichfieldmysteries.co.uk Heritage Weekend www.visitlichfield.co.uk/ heritageweekend
June
Shakespeare in the Park www.sitp.org.uk
Blues & Jazz Festival www.lichfieldarts.org.uk
July Lichfield Festival www.lichfieldfestival.org
Lichfield Fuse Festival www.lichfieldarts.org.uk
october L2F Lichfield Festival of Folk www.lichfieldarts.org.uk
DECember Christmas Lights Switch On www.lichfield.gov.uk
Lichfield Christmas Festival www.visitlichfield.co.uk/ christmasfestival
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We’re just a short drive away! Lichfield is in the heart of the country, so whether you are visiting for the day, overnight or just passing through, we’re a great place to stop.
Lichfield is only... 20 mins _ Birmingham 45 mins _ Warwick 1 h 30 mins _ Sheffield 1 h 40 mins _ Oxford 2 h _ Manchester 2 h _ Bristol 2 h 25 mins _ Liverpool
Come by train
Lichfield City Station direct to Birmingham (40mins) and Redditch (1h 15mins) Lichfield Trent Valley Station (5mins from Lichfield City) to London Euston (1h 50mins), Liverpool (1h 40mins), Crewe (1h).
Come by coach
Main coach park at Birmingham Road Bus Station: WS13 6LG (Dash reference: 0465). Park up and buy your parking permit from the Tourist Information Centre at St Mary’s in the Market Square (map in station) or online at www.dashpark.co.uk Parking bays near Premier Inn: The Friary WS13 6QE Drop offs/pick up (20mins stop) at the cathedral: Beacon Street WS13 7AD Coach parking www.visitlichfield.co.uk/coachparking Car parking www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/carparkmap
Welcome Driver
Pick up a 10% discount card off all food and drink at St Mary’s Café when you buy your coach parking ticket.
For help planning your trip or for more driver and group organiser special offers, call 01543 308210 or email jonathan.oates@lichfielddc.gov.uk