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The Hub at St Mary's: Lichfield's Historic Church Transformed

Historic St Mary's Church in Lichfield, now The Hub, blends rich heritage with vibrant arts, community spaces, and panoramic city views.

St Mary's Church in Lichfield, a Grade II* listed building dating from 1870, stands on a site of Christian worship since at least 1150. Once a traditional church, it has been transformed into The Hub at St Mary's, a vibrant cultural and community centre housing the city library, performance spaces, exhibitions, and a café. Its historic tower offers panoramic views of Lichfield, blending heritage with modern arts and community life.

A brief summary to St Mary's Church

  • Market Ln, Lichfield, WS14 0AU, GB
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Book the tower tour in advance to secure your spot for stunning 360-degree views of Lichfield.
  • Visit the first-floor performance and exhibition spaces to experience local art and live music.
  • Enjoy a coffee and locally made cakes at the Hub’s café, a perfect spot to relax during your visit.
  • Check event schedules online or on-site to catch community gatherings, workshops, and charity events.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a physically demanding climb if you take the tower tour.
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Getting There

  • Train

    From Lichfield City Train Station, it is approximately a 10-minute walk (about 500 yards) to The Hub at St Mary's. The station is served by regular trains connecting to Birmingham and beyond. Tickets typically cost £5-£10 depending on origin.

  • Bus

    Lichfield Bus Station is located about 350 yards from The Hub, an 8-minute walk. Frequent local and regional bus services operate here, with single fares around £2-£4. Check local timetables for service frequency.

  • Car

    There are several car parks within walking distance, including Bird Street (short stay) and Upper Lombard Street (short stay), both about a 3-4 minute walk. Parking charges vary but typically range from £1-£3 per hour. Note that Market Square is pedestrianized.

  • Walking

    The Hub is centrally located on Market Lane in Lichfield city centre, easily accessible on foot from most city centre locations. The terrain is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

St Mary's Church location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about St Mary's Church

Ancient Roots and Architectural Evolution

St Mary's Church occupies a site with a Christian presence dating back to at least 1150, possibly earlier. The current structure was designed by architect James Fowler and completed in 1870, constructed from Derbyshire sandstone in a Gothic Revival style. This replaced earlier churches on the site, including a neoclassical building from 1721 and medieval predecessors whose spires repeatedly collapsed over centuries. The church’s tower retains historic bells cast in the 18th century, linking the present to its rich past.

Transformation into a Cultural Hub

Declining church attendance in the 20th century led to a remarkable reinvention of St Mary's. Between 1978 and 1981, the building was adapted to include community facilities such as a day centre, coffee shop, gift shop, and heritage centre. More recently, it was redeveloped as The Hub at St Mary's, housing Lichfield’s city library on the ground floor and a flexible performance and exhibition space on the first floor. The Hub integrates modern amenities like Wi-Fi, touchscreen tables, and 3D printing, creating a dynamic cultural venue within a historic shell.

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

The church’s interior features notable stained glass windows depicting religious figures such as Saint Richard of Chichester and Saint George. The Dyott Chapel remains a dedicated parish space. The building’s Grade II* listing reflects its architectural and historic significance. The tower’s 144-step climb rewards visitors with 360-degree panoramic views of Lichfield, offering a unique vantage point over the city’s Market Square and surrounding heritage sites.

Community Engagement and Events

The Hub hosts a diverse range of events including live music concerts, yoga sessions, art exhibitions, and community gatherings. Its café serves locally made cakes and a variety of drinks, fostering a welcoming atmosphere. The venue’s accessibility features include wheelchair access and accessible restrooms, ensuring it is open to all. The Hub also functions as a tourist information centre, connecting visitors to Lichfield’s broader cultural and historical offerings.

Preservation and Future Prospects

Ongoing maintenance projects ensure the preservation of the church’s historic bells and structural integrity. The building’s adaptive reuse exemplifies sustainable heritage management, balancing conservation with contemporary community needs. The Hub continues to evolve as a vibrant focal point in Lichfield’s city centre, celebrating both its medieval origins and its role as a modern cultural landmark.

Significance in Lichfield’s Urban Fabric

Situated prominently on Market Lane in Lichfield’s city centre, St Mary’s Church is a key landmark reflecting the city’s religious and civic history. Its transformation into The Hub has revitalized the space as a social and cultural nucleus, linking past and present. The church’s story embodies Lichfield’s resilience and commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing innovation and community spirit.

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