Lichfield Cathedral

Lichfield Cathedral is the Church of England cathedral in the centre of Lichfield, Staffordshire and the seat of the Bishop of Lichfield. The present cathedral building is mainly medieval in date and is notable for its three spires.

The interior contains a long nave, medieval stained glass fragments and numerous tombs and memorials that visitors can view on guided or self-guided visits. The cathedral close and precincts provide a compact historic ensemble with the west front and chapter house immediately accessible from the city centre. Services, choral events and occasional exhibitions are regularly held in the building.

A Christian see at Lichfield dates back to the early medieval period; the present stone cathedral was built mainly between the 12th and 14th centuries. It was badly damaged during the English Civil War and underwent substantial restoration work in the 19th century, including projects led by Sir George Gilbert Scott.

The cathedral stands within the cathedral close at the heart of the city of Lichfield in Staffordshire. It sits within an urban streetscape, a short walk from the city’s shops and public spaces.

• Three spires: The building is unusual among English medieval cathedrals for its three spires, which are visible across the surrounding city.
• Restoration history: Sustained damage during the English Civil War led to major later restorations, including a significant 19th-century campaign by Sir George Gilbert Scott.

What to See #

• St Chad's Shrine: Located immediately adjacent to the cathedral nave, the shrine contains medieval relics associated with Saint Chad and has been a focus of pilgrimage since the Middle Ages.
• Chapter House: A vaulted room used historically for the cathedral's chapter meetings and administrative functions; the chapter house contains medieval stonework and memorials.
• West Front: The main west façade of the building, notable for its medieval sculpture and the three spires that crown the building and define the city skyline.