Lichfield Cathedral
The seat of the Bishop of Lichfield and the cathedral of its diocese, this Grade I listed Church of England cathedral stands on a site consecrated in 700. Its three distinctive spires dominate the skyline above a structure begun in the early 13th century and completed in Decorated Gothic style around 1320.
At a glance
Lichfield Cathedral is the principal church of the Diocese of Lichfield and hosts daily services. The cathedral’s formal dedication honors Saint Mary and Saint Chad, the latter being the fifth bishop of Mercia whose relics once rested here. Its three spires are among England’s most recognizable cathedral landmarks.
History
The Diocese of Mercia was established in 656, with a cathedral consecrated on this site in 700. The relics of Chad of Mercia remained housed here until 1538, when they were removed during the English Reformation. The episcopal seat relocated to Chester in 1075, then to Coventry in 1326. Lichfield gained co-cathedral status in 1148 and became the sole cathedral after St Mary’s Priory in Coventry dissolved in 1539 and the new Diocese of Chester was created in 1541.
During the English Civil War, the Cathedral Close suffered three sieges. The church sustained severe damage, including the loss of all medieval glass and numerous monuments. Bishop John Hacket oversaw initial restoration work following the war, with further campaigns undertaken in the 18th and 19th centuries.
What you see
Construction proceeded from the early 13th century to approximately 1320 in the Decorated Gothic style. The work likely began at the choir in the east and advanced westward through the transepts, chapter house, nave, and south-west tower. The lady chapel, central tower, south-east tower, and iconic three spires were added subsequently.
The cathedral’s soft sandstone required extensive restoration work, particularly by architect George Gilbert Scott, who addressed deterioration caused by both the stone’s fragility and Civil War damage. Many architectural details visible today reflect these 19th-century interventions.
Cultural significance
Lichfield Cathedral represents a continuous center of Christian worship spanning over thirteen centuries. Its architectural prominence and historical role in English religious life, especially during the Reformation and Civil War periods, mark it as a significant monument to England’s ecclesiastical heritage.
Key facts
- Country: United Kingdom
- City: Lichfield, England
- Coordinates: 52.6855, −1.8305
- Designation: Grade I listed building
- Current function: Church of England cathedral; seat of the Bishop of Lichfield
- Construction period: Early 13th century to c. 1320
- Architectural style: Decorated Gothic
Practical information & getting there
Lichfield Cathedral holds daily services and welcomes visitors as an active place of worship. For current visiting hours, service times, and any access requirements, consult the cathedral’s official website or contact the visitor information center in Lichfield.
Sources & resources
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