In the heart of the country in the West Midlands lies a small city called Lichfield. Actually it’s one of the smallest cities in the UK. That’s not to say there is far from things to do here. This cathedral city is perfect for a weekend break and if you like a bit of history, culture and cute souvenir shops it will be right up your street. It’s quintessentially English. Here’s what you can get up to in this pretty town.

Visit The Stunning Lichfield Cathedral

Well this has to be the first thing I write about! This cathedral is huge and full of architectural amaziness (if it’s not a word then it should be!). You can walk around for free or for a small donation and they will often hold small art exhibitions here too. The detail of the sculptures and stained glass windows is something to be admired and it’s hard not to be impressed. Definitely top of the list.

Discover the House of Samuel Johnson

The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum was the former home of the man who wrote the first English dictionary. Over 5 floors you can discover how he lived and see some of his old belongings, including that famous first dictionary on the top floor. Another free activity with a bookshop on ground level.

Tea and Scones!

Can you get anymore English?! Lichfield is a great city to just sit and relax in one of the many tea shops, selling cakes, scones and chocolates. These shops are usually decorated with pretty bunting and enticing rows of cakes in the windows. Don’t worry coffee lovers, there’s something for you too, head to Coffee 1 in town where you can pick your blend for that perfect cup of coffee.

Just Wander Around

Lichfield is full of these sweet little shops selling all kinds of things from ornaments, to shabby chic ‘bits and bobs’, candles, flowers, picture frames and homemade cards. It’s easy to get carried away here.

Discover Roman Ruins

Letocetum was an old Roman-English town that dates back to 1st century AD. Here you can wander around these old ruins free of charge and read about the buildings that used to be here. There is also a museum but it’s opened limited hours and days. It had just snowed when I visited so the ruins and church in the background looked gorgeous.

Grab A Sunday Roast

There’s nothing better than a proper English roast dinner and at The Brewhouse and Kitchen they do it well. This bright but cosy pub had the biggest Yorkshire pudding I’ve ever seen!

Check Out the Old Prison Cells

The Old Guildhall Prison Cells are small but interesting. You can see how the cells were set up during the 15th-18th centuries and hear stories of the former inmates, including public executions and lashings (eek!).

Dine In One Of The Many Restaurants

For such a small city there are so many places to eat! Try some tapas and cocktails at Faro Lounge or head to The Wine House for some evening drinks. Ask is family friendly and serve yummy Italian dishes, or for something a little bit more posh Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar do great food with beautiful decor inside. Many of these restaurants also have great vegan and vegetarian options.

I loved that so many activities are free and that everything in the city is a 2 minute walk away! There are things I didn’t get the time to see such as Erasmus Darwin House, home to the grandfather of Charles Darwin. There are many parks and things to do with kids such as Drayton Manor Theme Park, Beacon Park, Chasewater Railway and National Forest Adventure Farm. There is also the National Memorial Arboretum located in the National Forest.

How Do I Get Here?

Lichfield is easily reachable by coach or train services from the North or South. Birmingham is only a 30 minute drive away and Virgin trains from London Euston take only 1 hour 10 minutes. The West Midlands train will be 2 and half hours from London.

Check out thetrainline.com and pre book tickets to get a cheaper price. I booked a week in advance and got a return ticket From London Euston to Lichfield City for £16. Lichfield Trent Valley station is about a 20 min walk out from Town so best to get in at the City station.

Where do I stay?

There are numerous options from camping to self catering options, guesthouses and hotels. Rooms will roughly vary from £40-£100 a night. If you don’t have a car then I would recommend to stay in the city centre as it’s easily walk-able. If you are driving then there are more rural options just outside the city.

How Long to Spend?

I had a day and a half and did a lot but I think 2 full days would be perfect, or 3 of you don’t want to rush things. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway.

When Should I Go?

I would say anytime of the year would still be a great visit. I had snow when I was there and the city was incredibly pretty. Although based on the many outdoor type activities then summer would also be a fantastic and preferable time.

Any other hidden UK gems you guys know about? I’m always looking for recommendations..

More from the UK: Things to do on Brick Lane, London