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
-
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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
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
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Portobello Tower
17.4 km
An evocative 18th-century folly commemorating a historic naval victory, standing as a haunting landmark in Featherstone’s rural landscape.
Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours
20.8 km
Discover Birmingham's rich history and culture through immersive guided walking tours showcasing iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Aston Cross Clock Tower
21.0 km
A distinguished Victorian clock tower in Birmingham symbolizing historic community pride and architectural heritage.
Gem Buildings
22.0 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
22.5 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Chamberlain Clock
22.6 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Empire Remains Shop—Birmingham
23.0 km
Explore Birmingham's cultural heritage at The Empire Remains Shop, a unique museum showcasing the city's rich history and artistic legacy.
Birmingham Cathedral
23.0 km
Explore Birmingham Cathedral: A historical gem showcasing stunning architecture, serene gardens, and vibrant cultural events in the heart of Birmingham.
Workers Memorial
23.0 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
23.0 km
Explore New Hall Hill, a historical treasure in Birmingham, where captivating architecture and rich cultural history come together for an unforgettable experience.
The Coffin Works
23.1 km
Uncover the hidden history of coffin-making in Birmingham at The Coffin Works, a unique museum offering engaging insights into the trade's past.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
23.1 km
Victorian pub grandeur meets intimate theatre magic in Birmingham's charming Temple Row square – ales, pies, and powerhouse performances await.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
23.1 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Square
23.2 km
Explore Chamberlain Square, a historical landmark in Birmingham with stunning architecture and vibrant cultural life in the heart of the city.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
23.2 km
Explore the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, where art, history, and culture converge in a stunning setting that captivates visitors of all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lichfield Antiques Centre
0.2 km
Discover over 60 specialist dealers’ treasures in a charming Victorian school building beside scenic Minster Pool in historic Lichfield.
Lichfield Cathedral
0.3 km
Explore the UK’s only medieval cathedral with three spires, rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant community spirit in Lichfield.
Beacon Park
0.7 km
Explore Lichfield’s historic 70-acre Beacon Park, blending Victorian gardens, sports, play areas, and year-round events for all ages.
Wall Roman Site
3.5 km
Explore the ruins of Letocetum, a key Roman staging post with baths and inns on historic Watling Street in Staffordshire.
National Trust - Letocetum Roman Baths and Museum
3.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins and museum of Letocetum, a key Roman staging post on ancient Watling Street near Lichfield.
Pipe Hall Farm
3.6 km
Explore serene woodlands and historic springs with scenic views near Burntwood at Pipe Hall Farm.
The Staffordshire Regiment Museum and Mercian Regiment Archive
4.3 km
Explore over 300 years of military history through immersive exhibits, interactive outdoor trenches, and engaging family-friendly programs in Lichfield.
Gentleshaw Common
6.8 km
Explore Staffordshire’s largest lowland heathland, a vibrant nature reserve rich in rare plants, wildlife, and tranquil walking paths.
National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
8.1 km
A serene 150-acre living tribute in Staffordshire, honouring service and sacrifice through woodland memorials and reflective spaces.
Chasewater Country Park
8.1 km
Explore Staffordshire’s largest canal feeder reservoir with scenic trails, water sports, heritage steam trains, and rich wildlife habitats.
Aldridge Shopping Centre
10.7 km
A practical, community-focused shopping centre in Aldridge, offering everyday essentials, local services and convenient free parking in a compact, accessible layout.
Tamworth Castle
10.8 km
Explore centuries of history and vibrant heritage at Tamworth Castle, a Norman fortress nestled in scenic Staffordshire grounds.
Drayton Manor Resort
11.0 km
Experience thrilling rides, enchanting wildlife, and magical family fun at Drayton Manor Resort in Staffordshire.
D Empire
11.2 km
Experience classic cinema charm with cozy seating and community warmth at D Empire in Sutton Coldfield.
The Museum Of Cannock Chase
11.5 km
Discover the rich industrial heritage and natural beauty of Cannock Chase at this engaging family-friendly museum set in a historic colliery site.
Essential places to dine
Upstairs by Tom Shepherd
0.1 km
Discover Staffordshire’s first Michelin-starred restaurant offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service in Lichfield’s historic heart.
Dubberley Delicious
0.1 km
Experience innovative British fine dining with seasonal menus and unique chef’s table events in the heart of Lichfield.
The Horns Inn, Slitting Mill
11.7 km
A warm, family-friendly British pub in Slitting Mill offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
Woodlands Restaurant
15.8 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic views at The Chase Golf Club, perfect for family meals and special occasions.
Clifford Arms
17.8 km
A traditional Staffordshire pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Haywood.
Seven Stars
19.2 km
A stylish gastropub near Stafford offering creative dishes and a welcoming atmosphere in a modern setting close to Cannock Chase.
Orangery Restaurant at The Moat House
19.9 km
A bright conservatory restaurant at a historic Staffordshire hotel, serving seasonal British cuisine and classic afternoon teas by tranquil waters.
Lucarelli Restaurant
20.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in stylish private domes at Lucarelli Restaurant, West Bromwich’s culinary gem.
Modern Restaurant & Cafee
22.2 km
A vibrant modern dining spot in Birmingham offering diverse cuisine and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for small parties and late-night meals.
Decorum Restaurant Birmingham
22.4 km
Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.
Kopitiam
22.4 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
The Rolling Mill
22.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.
The Wilderness
22.5 km
Experience bold British fine dining with innovative tasting menus in a moody, industrial-chic setting at Birmingham’s Wilderness.
24 Carat Bistro
22.5 km
Hidden gem serving slow-cooked goat curry and Punjabi fusion in Birmingham's historic Jewelry Quarter.
Restaurant Folium
22.6 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Heart Of The Country Village
3.9 km
A charming rural shopping village near Lichfield with unique boutiques, delightful eateries, and tranquil gardens for a relaxed day out.
Brewery Street Shopping Centre
11.1 km
A welcoming and convenient shopping hub in Rugeley offering diverse stores and easy parking in a clean, respectable environment.
Whimsical. (Hippie Shop)
12.0 km
A vibrant sanctuary of crystals, incense, and bohemian spirit in the heart of Hednesford.
Princess Alice Retail Park
15.0 km
A premier retail park in Sutton Coldfield offering diverse shopping, dining, and wellness options with ample free parking and easy access.
WOW Gift Shop UK
16.9 km
Discover a vibrant and eclectic gift shop in Birmingham offering unique, fun, and memorable presents for every occasion.
Middle England
21.7 km
Explore Middle England, a unique gift shop in Birmingham, offering a diverse range of homewares and souvenirs that embody local culture.
Gingermegs Vintage
22.2 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Homesense Stafford
22.2 km
Discover unique homewares and stylish décor treasures at Homesense Stafford, your destination for eclectic and affordable interior finds.
Queens Shopping Park
22.3 km
A bustling retail park in Stafford offering diverse shops, convenient hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all shoppers.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
22.4 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
A&N Jewellery
22.4 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
Design Centre
22.5 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
22.5 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Adamas Antique Jewellery
22.5 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Quarter Jewellery
22.5 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Jewellers Arms
22.3 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
The Spittal Brook
22.3 km
A friendly Stafford pub and inn offering great ales, home-cooked meals, cozy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Rose Villa Tavern
22.6 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
40 St Paul's
22.6 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gin speakeasy: 100+ global varieties, intimate vibes, and masterful cocktails in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
The Red Lion
22.7 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
Saracens Head
22.7 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub and hotel in Weston offering freshly cooked classics, comfortable rooms, and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Actress & Bishop
22.7 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
1000 Trades
22.8 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Lucky7
22.8 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
The Bohemian
22.8 km
Vibrant cocktail bar in Wolverhampton with industrial charm, creative drinks, and lively bottomless brunches in a casual urban setting.
Queen's Arms birmingham
22.9 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
The Pig & Tail
22.9 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
The Alchemist Colmore Row
22.9 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
Madeleine
23.0 km
An elegant, salon‑style cocktail bar in The Grand Hotel — famed for refined afternoon tea and meticulous cocktails in a dramatic, over‑sized parlour.
Revolución de Cuba Birmingham
23.1 km
Experience authentic Cuban vibes, vibrant cocktails, and lively salsa music in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
21.9 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
22.2 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
22.6 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
PAVO Birmingham
22.6 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
What do you mean
23.1 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
suki10c
23.2 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
Sector 57
23.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
Next Door & Spotlight
23.4 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Quantum Vnues
23.4 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
VOID Nightclub
23.5 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
The Night Owl
23.5 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Disco Wonderland
23.5 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
King of clubs
23.5 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Reflex - Birmingham
23.5 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Rosies - Birmingham
23.6 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly