Activities
Lichfield is home to some fascinating architecture from across the Centuries and a visit to the magnificent three-spired Cathedral is a must. Here you will discover beautiful sculptures, a silver collection, breathtaking Flemish stained glass windows and the 8th Century Lichfield Gospels manuscript.
Find out more about Lichfield’s famous sons at The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum and Erasmus Darwin House both of which have interactive displays to illustrate the life and work of these influential characters. In addition Lichfield Heritage Centre gives an overall history of the District detailing some of the events, which have made it what it is today.
Take time out from Lichfield’s bustling city and drive to nearby Chasewater Country Park for water sport activities and a vintage steam railway.
The National Forest is one of Britain's boldest environmental projects, creating a new Forest for the nation across 200 square miles in the Heart of England and embracing parts of Staffordshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire. The forest trails and historic heath-land of Cannock Chase form the smallest mainland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK. Beautiful landscape, history and wildlife make Cannock Chase central England's woodland jewel where you can be active walking, cycling, pony trekking or Go Ape on a tree top adventure ropes course.
Also situated a few minutes from the city centre are a number of picturesque villages and beauty spots. The National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas is a perfect place to relax and reflect on the stories and events of the last Century and the Staffordshire Regiment Museum near Whittington gives an interesting, hands-on account of the Regiment’s involvements in Britain’s conflicts over the years.
Tamworth Castle is a Norman Motte and Bailey Castle located in the centre of Tamworth surrounded by the Castle Pleasure grounds. The oldest parts of the Castle are believed to date from the 1180's. There are 15 period rooms to explore with many hands-on activities for all ages.
Enjoy the past, buy the present and treasure the experience at the Wedgwood Visitor Centre and Museum which offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in the heritage of Britain's greatest ceramics company.
Wall Roman Fort is a fascinating tourist attraction. Wall is the most complete Roman fort in Britain
The National Brewery Centre celebrates Burton upon Trent's proud brewing heritage and its influence worldwide. Visitors are told the story of brewing by actors in period costume, multi-media interactive displays and hundreds of exhibits.
For those with a taste for something more extreme, Drayton Manor Theme Park boasts some of Europe’s best white-knuckle rides, alongside a Zoo and Garden Centre while the events at Curborough Sprint Course are perfect for those with a passion for speed!
Tamworth Snowdome, National Sea Life Centre, Old Rep Theatre, Cadbury World, Hoar Cross Hall Health Spa and The Belfry Golf Club are all within thirty minutes drive of Netherstowe House.
Shopping
There are many specialist shops lining the mediaeval streets, with some wonderful treasures to be found, perfect for whiling away a lazy day or searching for that perfect something.
Antique shops, boutiques and jewellers are abundant in Lichfield along with antiquarian books, music shops, delicatessens and many more.
Enjoy a stroll around our historic Market Square right in the heart of the city with a choice of plants and fresh produce along with monthly Farmers’ and Antiques Markets.
For those of you with a sweet tooth head to the Tudor of Lichfield. Or if it’s an unusual gift that you’re searching for try Curborough Hall Farm Craft Centre.
Barton Marina and Heart of the Country Shopping Village are both just 10 minutes drive. The Bullring in Birmingham and Westfield Derby are both just 30 minutes drive from Netherstowe House:
Barton Marina is located on the Trent and Mersey Canal between Lichfield and Burton-on-Trent. The development offers super shopping facilities including an art gallery, a toy museum and butcher/baker, delicatessen, toy, giftware and handicraft shops. You can also enjoy fabulous walks around the marina, lakes and woodlands during your visit.
Heart of the Country Shopping Village offers visitors a choice of crafts, food, herbs, country clothing, art, wine, florist, designer jewellery, quilting fabrics, specialty paints, pine furniture and garden design. There are also two restaurants on site.
The Bullring in Birmingham City Centre covers every aspect of shopping from retail fashion to electronics, from restaurants to travel with over 160 of the most imaginative and desirable shops for you to explore - including Selfridges and Debenhams plus more than 25 restaurants for you to revitalise yourself in.
From cutting-edge fashion to fine food, you’re sure to find everything you need at Westfield Derby. Whether it’s a full day of shop-til-you-drop retail therapy, an outing with the kids or just a quick stop to find a birthday gift, Westfield Derby has a whole range of stress-free, time-saving services and facilities to ensure you have a fantastic experience.
Festivals & Events
All year round, Lichfield District is alive with festivals and events. From Arts Festivals to Beer Festivals, Proms in the Park to Shakespeare in the Park there is always something going on and this year is no exception.
Netherstowe House is proud to be an official sponsor of the Lichfield Festival and each July this plays host to a range of musicians, artists and entertainers performing at various venues across the City including Lichfield Cathedral and Lichfield Garrick. Events during the two-weeks include the Medieval Market and ‘Fuse’ Community Arts Festival, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
In September Lichfield Heritage Weekend gives you the unique opportunity to find out about the hidden treasures of Lichfield and to take a look inside buildings not normally open to the public. In addition special themed tours around the City are available free-of-charge.
Christmas in Lichfield is just as lively as the rest of the year with events including the Lichfield Garrick Pantomime, Cathedral Carol Services, Christmas Fayre and the increasingly popular Santa Specials at Chasewater Railway.
Additionally Lichfield Garrick Theatre has events and entertainment 6 days a week and Lichfield Arts regularly take over the Guildhall presenting a huge range of musical styles from artists across the world.
Heritage
Further afield you can visit Chatsworth House - choose Chatsworth and discover a day out in the Peak District with a difference.
Hardwick Hall- one of Britain's greatest and most complete Elizabethan houses
Kedleston Hall- Neo-classical mansion with Adam interiors, landscape gardens and park.
Calke Abbey- With peeling paintwork and overgrown courtyards, Calke Abbey tells the story of the dramatic decline of a country house estate.
Shugborough Hall Estate - A late 17th-century mansion, seat of the Earls of Lichfield and containing interesting collections of china, silver, paintings and furniture.
Sudbury Hall- Discover the National Trust Museum of Childhood at Sudbury Hall, Derbyshire.
Tutbury Castle- Tutbury Castle has spectacular views across several counties and the Peak District. The Castle dates from 1071 and played an important part in history, including being the prison of Mary Queen of Scots.
