Lichfield Cathedral: The Only Medieval UK Cathedral with Three Spires
Explore the UK’s only medieval cathedral with three spires, rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant community spirit in Lichfield.
Lichfield Cathedral, located in the heart of Staffordshire, is a stunning medieval Gothic cathedral renowned for its unique three spires—the only one of its kind in the UK. With over 1,300 years of history, it houses remarkable treasures such as the Saint Chad Gospels and Herkenrode stained glass. Visitors can explore its rich heritage through guided tours, admire exquisite architecture, and enjoy the tranquil Cathedral Close surrounding the site.
A brief summary to Lichfield Cathedral
- The Close, Lichfield, WS13 7LD, GB
- +441543306100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Book the Tower Tours in advance to secure your spot and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the top of the central spire.
- Visit the Cathedral Close and Vicars’ Close to experience the medieval atmosphere and picturesque gardens surrounding the cathedral.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the cathedral, its treasures, and take a stroll around the Close.
- Check the cathedral’s event calendar for concerts and special exhibitions to enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Lichfield City railway station is approximately 2.5 km from the cathedral, with frequent direct trains from Birmingham and London taking 30 to 60 minutes. From the station, a taxi or local bus can complete the journey in 10 minutes. Train fares typically range from £10 to £25 depending on the origin.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Lichfield town centre from surrounding villages and towns, including direct services from Burntwood and Stafford. Bus journey times vary between 15 and 45 minutes with fares around £3 to £6. Check local timetables for schedules and frequency.
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Car
Driving to Lichfield Cathedral is straightforward, but parking inside The Close is restricted to permit holders. Blue badge holders have limited on-site parking on a first-come basis. Nearby public car parks are available within a 5-10 minute walk, with typical daily rates of £5 to £10.
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Walking
If staying in Lichfield town centre, the cathedral is a 10-15 minute walk on mostly flat, paved paths. The route passes through historic streets and is accessible for most visitors, including those with mobility aids.
Lichfield Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lichfield Cathedral
A Unique Architectural Marvel in the Midlands
Lichfield Cathedral stands out as the only medieval cathedral in the United Kingdom featuring three spires, often affectionately called 'The Ladies of the Vale.' Its Gothic architecture evolved over centuries, with the choir dating from 1200, transepts from the early 13th century, and the nave begun in 1260. The Lady Chapel, completed in 1330, houses the stunning 16th-century Herkenrode stained glass, a rare and vibrant example of medieval artistry. The cathedral’s West Front impresses visitors with ornate Victorian carvings and a grand entrance that sets the tone for the awe-inspiring interior.Historical Depth and Spiritual Legacy
The cathedral’s origins trace back over 1,300 years to Bishop Chad, who founded the first church on this site in 669. His burial place became a pilgrimage destination, and the cathedral grew in religious significance through the Middle Ages. The building endured intense damage during the English Civil War in the 1640s but was carefully restored in subsequent centuries, including major 19th-century renovations that preserved medieval elements while introducing Victorian artistry. Today, it remains a living place of worship and community, with a vibrant schedule of services, concerts, and exhibitions.Rich Treasures and Artistic Highlights
Inside, visitors can admire the Lichfield Gospels, an 8th-century illuminated manuscript of great historical importance, displayed in the octagonal Chapter House. The Lady Chapel’s Herkenrode glass windows bathe the space in colorful light, telling biblical stories through intricate stained glass. Another poignant feature is the Sleeping Children Monument in the Lady Chapel, a touching sculpture commemorating childhood loss. The cathedral’s interior also features fine Minton tiles inspired by medieval originals and a remarkable metal choir screen designed by John Birnie Philip, exemplifying Victorian craftsmanship.Engaging Visitor Experiences and Tours
Lichfield Cathedral offers a variety of tours that bring its history and architecture to life. The Faces of the Cathedral Tour explores 1,300 years of history around the exterior, focusing on the three spires and the West Front. Tower tours, including a rooftop guided tour and a self-guided chime climb, provide access to hidden passageways, spiral staircases, and panoramic views of Lichfield and the surrounding countryside. The Tower Room Experience at the base reveals fascinating stories about the cathedral’s construction, its survival through storms and sieges, and unique artifacts like an exploded cannonball.The Cathedral Close and Surrounding Heritage
The cathedral is set within The Close, a historic precinct with medieval houses, picturesque gardens, and stone walls that once fortified the area. Vicars’ Close offers a glimpse into medieval life with its row of quaint houses. The nearby Minster Pool adds to the tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a reflective stroll after visiting the cathedral. Facilities such as a visitors’ study centre, tea room, and bookshop enhance the visitor experience, while the cathedral’s warm welcome extends to well-behaved dogs during opening hours.Living Heritage and Community Heart
More than a historic monument, Lichfield Cathedral remains a vibrant centre of faith and culture. It hosts a packed programme of events including concerts, art projects, and seasonal festivals such as the Christmas Tree Festival and the new Robin’s Reward light show. The cathedral’s story is ongoing, deeply rooted in the local community and the wider diocese, inviting visitors to explore, reflect, and be inspired by its enduring legacy and architectural grandeur.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Portobello Tower
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An evocative 18th-century folly commemorating a historic naval victory, standing as a haunting landmark in Featherstone’s rural landscape.
Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours
21.0 km
Discover Birmingham's rich history and culture through immersive guided walking tours showcasing iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Aston Cross Clock Tower
21.1 km
A distinguished Victorian clock tower in Birmingham symbolizing historic community pride and architectural heritage.
Gem Buildings
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Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
22.7 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Chamberlain Clock
22.8 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.
Saint Mary the Virgin and Saint Chad
23.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of Saint Mary the Virgin and Saint Chad in Brewood, Staffordshire – a serene escape for all visitors.
Birmingham Cathedral
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Explore Birmingham Cathedral: A historical gem showcasing stunning architecture, serene gardens, and vibrant cultural events in the heart of Birmingham.
The Empire Remains Shop—Birmingham
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Explore Birmingham's cultural heritage at The Empire Remains Shop, a unique museum showcasing the city's rich history and artistic legacy.
Workers Memorial
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A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
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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
23.2 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
23.2 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
23.3 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
23.3 km
Explore Chamberlain Square, a historical landmark in Birmingham with stunning architecture and vibrant cultural life in the heart of the city.
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.
St Mary's Church
0.3 km
Historic St Mary's Church in Lichfield, now The Hub, blends rich heritage with vibrant arts, community spaces, and panoramic city views.
Beacon Park
0.6 km
Explore Lichfield’s historic 70-acre Beacon Park, blending Victorian gardens, sports, play areas, and year-round events for all ages.
Pipe Hall Farm
3.4 km
Explore serene woodlands and historic springs with scenic views near Burntwood at Pipe Hall Farm.
Wall Roman Site
3.6 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
3.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins and museum of Letocetum, a key Roman staging post on ancient Watling Street near Lichfield.
The Staffordshire Regiment Museum and Mercian Regiment Archive
4.6 km
Explore over 300 years of military history through immersive exhibits, interactive outdoor trenches, and engaging family-friendly programs in Lichfield.
Gentleshaw Common
6.6 km
Explore Staffordshire’s largest lowland heathland, a vibrant nature reserve rich in rare plants, wildlife, and tranquil walking paths.
Chasewater Country Park
8.0 km
Explore Staffordshire’s largest canal feeder reservoir with scenic trails, water sports, heritage steam trains, and rich wildlife habitats.
National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
8.2 km
A serene 150-acre living tribute in Staffordshire, honouring service and sacrifice through woodland memorials and reflective spaces.
Aldridge Shopping Centre
10.8 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
11.1 km
Explore centuries of history and vibrant heritage at Tamworth Castle, a Norman fortress nestled in scenic Staffordshire grounds.
The Museum Of Cannock Chase
11.2 km
Discover the rich industrial heritage and natural beauty of Cannock Chase at this engaging family-friendly museum set in a historic colliery site.
Drayton Manor Resort
11.3 km
Experience thrilling rides, enchanting wildlife, and magical family fun at Drayton Manor Resort in Staffordshire.
D Empire
11.5 km
Experience classic cinema charm with cozy seating and community warmth at D Empire in Sutton Coldfield.
Essential places to dine
Upstairs by Tom Shepherd
0.3 km
Discover Staffordshire’s first Michelin-starred restaurant offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service in Lichfield’s historic heart.
Dubberley Delicious
0.3 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
11.4 km
A warm, family-friendly British pub in Slitting Mill offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy village atmosphere.
Woodlands Restaurant
15.5 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic views at The Chase Golf Club, perfect for family meals and special occasions.
Clifford Arms
17.5 km
A traditional Staffordshire pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Haywood.
Seven Stars
18.9 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
19.6 km
A bright conservatory restaurant at a historic Staffordshire hotel, serving seasonal British cuisine and classic afternoon teas by tranquil waters.
Lucarelli Restaurant
20.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in stylish private domes at Lucarelli Restaurant, West Bromwich’s culinary gem.
Modern Restaurant & Cafee
22.4 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
22.6 km
Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.
Kopitiam
22.6 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
The Rolling Mill
22.6 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.
The Wilderness
22.7 km
Experience bold British fine dining with innovative tasting menus in a moody, industrial-chic setting at Birmingham’s Wilderness.
24 Carat Bistro
22.7 km
Hidden gem serving slow-cooked goat curry and Punjabi fusion in Birmingham's historic Jewelry Quarter.
Restaurant Folium
22.8 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
4.2 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
10.8 km
A welcoming and convenient shopping hub in Rugeley offering diverse stores and easy parking in a clean, respectable environment.
Whimsical. (Hippie Shop)
11.7 km
A vibrant sanctuary of crystals, incense, and bohemian spirit in the heart of Hednesford.
Princess Alice Retail Park
15.2 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
17.1 km
Discover a vibrant and eclectic gift shop in Birmingham offering unique, fun, and memorable presents for every occasion.
Middle England
21.9 km
Explore Middle England, a unique gift shop in Birmingham, offering a diverse range of homewares and souvenirs that embody local culture.
Homesense Stafford
21.9 km
Discover unique homewares and stylish décor treasures at Homesense Stafford, your destination for eclectic and affordable interior finds.
Queens Shopping Park
22.0 km
A bustling retail park in Stafford offering diverse shops, convenient hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all shoppers.
Gingermegs Vintage
22.4 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
22.6 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
22.6 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
22.6 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
22.7 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
22.7 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Quarter Jewellery
22.7 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 Spittal Brook
22.0 km
A friendly Stafford pub and inn offering great ales, home-cooked meals, cozy rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Saracens Head
22.4 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub and hotel in Weston offering freshly cooked classics, comfortable rooms, and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
The Jewellers Arms
22.5 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
The Bohemian
22.7 km
Vibrant cocktail bar in Wolverhampton with industrial charm, creative drinks, and lively bottomless brunches in a casual urban setting.
The Rose Villa Tavern
22.7 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
40 St Paul's
22.7 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
22.8 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
Actress & Bishop
22.9 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
1000 Trades
22.9 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Lucky7
22.9 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
Queen's Arms birmingham
23.0 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
23.0 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
23.1 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
Madeleine
23.1 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.
The Sun Inn
23.2 km
A traditional Stafford pub serving home-cooked meals and Titanic Brewery ales in a welcoming, pet-friendly setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
22.1 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
22.4 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
PAVO Birmingham
22.8 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
22.8 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.
What do you mean
23.3 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
23.4 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
Sector 57
23.5 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
Next Door & Spotlight
23.6 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
23.6 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
23.6 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
23.6 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Disco Wonderland
23.7 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
King of clubs
23.7 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
23.7 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
23.8 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Historic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- 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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
