You might think Birmingham has it bad, but you can’t get much further from the sea when you’re in Lichfield. But it’s not called “the most English place in the country” just for its geography. A beautiful blend of history, architecture and culture makes it the perfect slice of English life.
The fact that it’s often overlooked by the crowds, living in the shadow of Birmingham and the Black Country (it’s one of the smallest cities in England), makes it a peaceful weekend retreat that’s not a million miles away—it’s only 40 minutes from Birmingham on the train, and even closer by car!
What’s there to do in Lichfield?
The crown jewel of Lichfield has to be the Cathedral, which has stood since 1340. It’s the only medieval cathedral in the UK with three spires, one of the oldest places of Christian worship in the country, and it survived three sieges during the English Civil War. With a rich history and stunning architecture, you don’t have to be religious to acknowledge its awe.
Just a short walk away, you’ll find more amazement above a jewellery shop, in the city’s only Michelin Star restaurant—Upstairs by Tom Shepherd—known for its impressive dishes bursting with flavour in a warm, relaxing location. For somewhere a little less spenny, Larder has made a name for itself with its ‘all flavour, no pomp’ ethos.
History buffs should visit the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum to celebrate the life of the renowned Lichfield-born writer, or the home of the grandfather of Charles Darwin, and respected doctor in his own right, Erasmus Darwin. Or walk around the lovely Stowe Pool and Fields, while further afield, you can now trek to Chasewater Country Park.
One of the biggest events in the city has to be the annual Lichfield Festival, an 11-day summer multi-arts festival—which also throws a springtime literature festival, a chamber music weekend in the autumn and annual Christmas concerts. This year saw performances from the likes of Spandau Ballet’s Tony Hadley, operatic bass baritone Sir Willard White, and comedian Mark Watson.
How do I get there?
You can get a train directly from Birmingham New Street to Lichfield City that takes less than 40 minutes. If you’re driving, drive from M6 and M6 Toll towards Staffordshire, and take exit T4, where you will continue on the London Road to Lichfield.