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It's home to one of the UK's top theme parks, our national centre of remembrance, the only medieval three-spired cathedral in the country, and some of Staffordshire's best restaurants - not to mention some stunning natural landscapes.
The historic district of Lichfield, birthplace of Samuel Johnson, and home town of Erasmus Darwin, David Garrick and Anna Seward, is packed to the brim with fascinating and thrilling days out.
Here are 10 great things to do in Lichfield.
1. Drayton Manor Resort
With more than 50 rides and attractions, including the brand new Gold Rush family rollercoaster, opening in Summer 2024, and Europe's only Thomas Land, Drayton Manor Resort is one of the UK's most well-loved theme parks.
There are thrilling events all year round, and a 15-acre zoo home to over 500 exotic and endangered species.
Take your time and extend your stayat the Drayton Manor Hotel, or the neighbouring camping and caravanning site, which boasts 90 pitches, play area, showers and toilets, and wi-fi.
2. National Memorial Arboretum
Explore 400+ thought-provoking memorials, beautiful woodlands, and enthralling exhibitions at the National Memorial Arboretum, the UK's national centre of remembrance.
A very special place on the edge of The National Forest, the Arboretum was created to provide a year-round space to celebrate the lives of those who have served our country in the armed forces, emergency services or elsewhere.
The calendar of events includes Armed Forces Weekend, Summer Proms, and the breath-taking Illuminated Arboretum every December.
3. Lichfield Cathedral
Staffordshire's medieval masterpiece, Lichfield Cathedral dates back over 1100 years and is renowned for its rich heritage, ancient artefacts, and inspiring architecture.
One of our most inclusive attractions, the cathedral has dedicated parking for blue badge holders, accessible toilets, ramped access, and induction loops, and hosts regular dementia-friendly services.
Visit for a tour and discover some of the highlights, such as the incredible views from the Central Tower, and the treasures of the unique library, or enjoy the spectacular Lichfield Cathedral Light Show in December.
4. Upstairs by Tom Shepherd
Staffordshire's only Michelin-starred restaurant, Upstairs by Tom Shepherd, has been open for under three years but has already built a reputation as an out-of-this-world dining destination.
A 36-cover dining room offering seven-course and four-course tasting menu, and The Kitchen Table experience for up to four people, Upstairs is lauded for its food, ambience and attentive service on TripAdvisor.
A real treat and worthy of a trip to Lichfield for any committed foodie. Bookings for September 10th-December 30th 2025 open on September 11th 2024.
5. The Boat
Another restaurant helping Lichfield make its mark as an eating destination is The Boat.
One of the three Lichfield eateries in The Michelin Guide, The Boat is a short drive from Birmingham but feels a world away, nestling beside the tranquil Lichfield Canal, with the micro-farm a few steps from the restaurant.
The pigs, chickens, fish and bees who live on the farm, and the plants grown in the vegetable beds and polytunnels, ensure the menu is truly locally-sourced, and minimal waste is sent to land-fill.
6. Poms
For a lighter bite, or catching up with friends over coffee or cocktails, there's nowhere better in Lichfield than Poms, formerly known as Pom's Kitchen & Deli.
The perfect spot for filling up before a busy day of sightseeing (or refuelling afterwards), Poms is right in the heart of the action, just a short walk away from Lichfield Cathedral, Erasmus Darwin House and countless other things to do in the city centre.
Visitors love the casual atmosphere, fantastic service and gorgeous fayre, sourced from the finest local producers.
7. Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum
Celebrate the life and work of a renowned writer, critic and lexicographer - and one of Lichfield's famous sons - at the Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum.
Best known for compiling the first comprehensive English dictionary in the 1700s, Dr Johnson was a larger-than-life character, and this museum - in his former family home - reveals all about his personal life and literary achievements.
The free-to-enter museum also hosts various events, workshops and talks, as well as a gift and bookshop in the same room that Johnson's parents ran as a bookshop business from 1708.
8. Erasmus Darwin House
Another of Lichfield's most famous residents in Erasmus Darwin, grandfather of Charles Darwin, and a respected doctor, inventor, botanist and poet in his own right.
At the free-to-enter Erasmus Darwin House, his former residence, you can learn about his innovative work and ideas, including theories on evolution and natural selection which must have influenced his grandson.
Explore the collection of the Darwin Family's possessions, such as the prized Common Place Book full of Erasmus' notes and drawings, and period furnishings and herb garden.
9. Staffordshire Regiment Museum
With its collection of military artefacts, uniforms, medals and weaponry dating back 300 years, the Staffordshire Regiment Museum tells a fascinating story of bravery, tenacity and heroism.
Highlights include a replica, full-size World War I trench - often brought to life by costumed performers at events - a display of armoured vehicles, a public air raid experience, and a unique adventure play area.
The museum serves as a poignant tribute to the service and achievements of the regiment's members, preserving their legacy for future generations.
10. Chasewater Country Park
A few miles outside the city is the idyllic Chasewater Country Park, with its huge reservoir - popular for paddleboarding, wakeboarding, sailing and other watersports - and acres of green, open spaces.
It's ideal for a relaxing walk along the fully accessible trail, or a picnic or BBQ, not to mention wildlife spotting.
There is a visitor centre, shop and cafe, and nearby Chasewater Railway will take you back in time as you chug around the reservoir on their classic steam and diesel locomotives.
More things to do in Lichfield
Enjoy cheap family days out at Manor Farm Fruits and Lichfield Maize Maze, high octane thrills at Midland Karting, the very best in live music, dance and theatre at the Lichfield Festival, fun and floral displays at Beacon Park and peace and tranquility at Fradley Junction Nature Reserve.
You'll find more ideas and inspiration for things to do in Lichfield in our Lichfield & Tamworth section at https://www.enjoystaffordshire.com/ideas-and-inspiration/explore-our-destinations/lichfield-tamworth
Related
Enjoy fun for everyone at Drayton Manor Resort; home of over 50 exciting rides and attractions including Europe’s only Thomas Land, epic family thrill rides and even a 15-acre zoo.
For visitors travelling from further afield or simply looking to turn a day trip into an overnight stay, there’s also the luxurious four-star Drayton Manor Hotel. It has 150 bedrooms, including 15 Thomas & Friends themed family rooms, each with a unique hand-painted scene on the wall and ceiling, themed bunk beds, and train track patterned carpets in the corridors leading to each room.
Drayton Manor Zoo is a fascinating place to explore with 15 acres of open plan zoo which is home to over 100 animals from all over the world including endangered species.
The National Memorial Arboretum is the UK's year-round centre of Remembrance. The 150 acre site, located in Staffordshire, features nearly 400 thought-provoking memorials for both military and civilian associations.
Lichfield Cathedral is a treasured landmark in the heart of the country that prides itself in offering a warm welcome to all our visitors.
We have been very fortunate to be able to refurbish the pub so our guests can relax in comfort and one goal for the restaurant is to provide the highest quality, locally sourced produce cooked with great care and presented in an innovative style to please the eye and satisfy the pallet.
We're Pom's Kitchen and Deli based in Lichfield. We aim to give you a truly amazing experience from the moment you walk through our doors.
Discover the life and times of Samuel Johnson, the great man of letters most famously known for writing ‘A Dictionary of the English Language’ in 1755. Explore five floors of displays in an atmospheric historic house, including period room settings, introductory film, interactive exhibits and hands-on fun for families.
Elegant Georgian home of Erasmus Darwin, grandfather of Charles Darwin, leading doctor, scientist, botanist, inventor and poet of the 18th Century.
Come and see the Staffordshire Regiment Museum tell the story of the bravery, tenacity and heroism of all serving members over the last 300 years.
An environmentally friendly attraction that includes a visitor centre, lakeside cafe, activities such as wake-boarding, sailing, water skiing, nature walks and nearby heritage steam railway.
Enjoy a 4 mile return railway journey in Chasewater Country Park travelling in heritage steam and diesel trains. Great day out for the family with gift shops, cafes and fascinating railway museum.
Whether you're looking for a fun day out for the family, a team building event with a difference, or a corporate hospitality day with a buzz, then Midland Karting is for you!
Lichfield city centre park, ideal for a leisurely walk with children's play area, crazy golf, tennis and basketball.
Fradley Junction is the site of the award winning Fradley Pool Nature Reserve, Canalside Cafe, Gift Shop and Information Centre.
