Lichfield is a vibrant and historic city with plenty to see and do. From quaint bakeries and cafes, inspiring heritage, and quirky independent shops and restaurants, to beautiful parks and vistas, Lichfield is an amazing city to visit.
To celebrate Staffordshire Day (1st May 2025), we thought we’d compile a list of some of Lichfield’s best heritage sites and outdoor spaces. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it gives a nice glimpse into what this beautiful city has to offer.
Lichfield Cathedral
Being the only medieval three-spired cathedral in the UK, and boasting over 1300 years of history, Lichfield Cathedral is undoubtedly an iconic and quintessential feature of Lichfield. In addition to being an active place of worship, the Cathedral offers a whole range of events, tours, and exhibitions throughout the year. It also displays items from its collections (which date back as far as the 8th century!), including the Lichfield Angel, which was found in 2003 during excavations of the nave. The Cathedral is certainly a must-visit here in Lichfield, perfect for those interested in history, culture, architecture, and religion.
For more information, visit the Cathedral’s website: https://www.lichfield-cathedral.org/
The Cathedral Close
The Cathedral Close is a charming area that allows visitors to almost step back in time with its beautifully preserved architecture; highlights in this area are the Bishop’s Palace and the Vicar’s Close.
The Bishop’s Palace, located in the north-east corner of the Close, is a Grade I listed building that was used as the residence of the Bishop of Lichfield and other tenants at certain points through history. The Bishop’s Palace was once the family home of Anna Seward (1742-1809), an eighteenth-century poet and friend of Samuel Johnson. In 1953, the Bishop’s Palace was offered to the Cathedral School, who have used it ever since.
The Vicar’s Close, nestled in the north-west corner of the Cathedral Close, is a real hidden gem. The land was given to the Lay Vicars Choral by Bishop Langton in 1315. This land is now occupied by several Grade II listed cottages. It can be accessed via Erasmus Darwin House’s Herb Garden.
Erasmus Darwin House
Erasmus Darwin (1731 – 1802), grandfather of Charles Darwin (1809-1882), was a polymath who lived in the Cathedral Close during the eighteenth century. Erasmus Darwin House serves as a museum to the life and achievements of Darwin, showcasing his interests in science, medicine, and education through its collection and displays. A particular highlight of the site is its Herb Garden, which is planted to reflect the practical uses of plants and herbs (for example, apothecary or medicine gardens). Erasmus Darwin House has an interesting programme of events and activities on throughout the year. The museum is ideal for anyone interested in science and culture, and the life of one of the 18th century’s most remarkable thinkers.
To find out more, visit Erasmus Darwin House’s website: https://www.erasmusdarwin.org/
Beacon Park
Beacon Park is a truly amazing space. Set in more than 70 acres, and with everything from formal gardens and statues, play areas and equipment, to woodland walks and peddle boats, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Beacon Park.
If you’d like to learn more, visit Lichfield Historic Parks’ website: https://lichfieldhistoricparks.co.uk/beacon-park/
Sandfields Pumping Station
Sandfields Pumping Station is a volunteer-led organisation that is passionate about preserving and promoting industrial heritage. The site explores the crucial role the Pumping Station played in providing the Black Country with clean water through cholera outbreaks in the 19th century. Great for those interested in Britain’s industrial history.
For more details, visit Sandfields Pumping Station’s website: https://lichfieldwaterworkstrust.co.uk/
Stowe Pool
Stowe Pool is a beautiful location to take a walk around, providing the perfect place for games, picnics, and relaxing! Beside Stowe Pool stands a descendent of Samuel Johnson’s beloved willow.
If you’d like to learn more, visit Lichfield Historic Parks’ website: https://lichfieldhistoricparks.co.uk/
The Guildhall
The Guildhall has served the community of Lichfield for around 600 years. Having served as a court, prison, police station, theatre, and fire station, the Guildhall is a building full of fascinating history. The Guildhall is under the care and ownership of Lichfield City Council and is now used for public events; it can also be hired out for special bookings, such as conferences, parties, and weddings.
To find out more, visit the Guildhall’s website: https://www.lichfield.gov.uk/Guildhall_706.aspx
The Old Guildhall Prison Cells
The Old Guildhall Prison Cells, located towards the back of the Guildhall, was first used as a prison in 1548. The displays in the Prison Cells explore the history of crime and punishment, and recount the fates of those who’d been accused, including John Neve, William Wightman and James Jackson who were found guilty of forgery and were the last felons to be publicly hanged at Lichfield gallows in 1810.
The Old Guildhall Prison Cells are open every Saturday from April to September (subject to volunteer availability), 10am until 4pm. Entry is free, donations are welcome.
For more information, visit The Old Guildhall Prison Cells’ webpage: https://www.lichfield.gov.uk/Guildhall_Prison_Cells_800.aspx
The Hub at St Mary’s
The Hub at St Mary’s is a community space in the heart of Lichfield. Housed in a former church, the venue is used as an arts centre that hosts a variety of events, activities, and exhibitions. In addition to some beautiful architecture, the building also contains a library and coffee shop – what’s not to love?
For more information, visit The Hub at St Mary’s website: https://thehubstmarys.co.uk/
Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
Of course, what list of Lichfield’s highlights would be complete without the Birthplace? Dr Samuel Johnson spent the first 27 years of his life in this atmospheric trader’s townhouse, now a museum with a stunning collection of Johnson treasures.
We have a range of excellent events and activities on throughout the year. Make sure to check them out on our events page: https://samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk/whats-on/
If you’d like to learn more about the role some of these places have played throughout history, we have two walking tours coming up – perfect opportunities to get outside and learn more about this wonderful city!
Women’s History Walk on Saturday 7th June 2025 – https://samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk/event/womens-history-walk/
Samuel Johnson’s Lichfield Walking Tour on Saturday 5th July 2025 – https://samueljohnsonbirthplace.org.uk/event/samuel-johnsons-lichfield-walking-tour/
Want to know about what else Lichfield has to offer? Head to Visit Lichfield’s website: https://visitlichfield.co.uk/