A really beautiful place (Lichfield in general)

Member Name: dcmbarton

Product:	Lichfield in general
Date:	03/07/09 (16 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good transport links, well-kept, well-signposted and plenty of choice

Disadvantages: None that I found

I have had the pleasure of visiting the town of Lichfield several times, most recently last Tuesday.

Lichfield is above all a Cathedral city and has the ambience that one might expect in such a place though that isn't to say it is entirely traditional. What I really like is that it is compact so there isn't a lot of walking and searching up side streets for shops; it has, at one time and another been well-planned.

The main part of the town is bordered on one side by Lichfield City Station which has regular trains to Birmingham (45 minutes) and the Bus Station; the other is bordered by the magnificent Cathedral (currently undergoing yet another renovation project!).

The town is within easy walking distance of the train and bus stations and there is a large multi-storey car park in the vicinity of the Garrick Theatre too. The theatre provides a lovely detour on the way to the main shopping area; in addition to its many and varied events, there is also a café and wine bar open daily with seating outside for fine weather.

The main shopping area is pedestrianised in part; what really impressed me was that once in the town centre, everything, including the Cathedral and Theatre were very well signposted. There are all the shops one would expect to find: WHSmith, Boots, Marks and Spencer etc.; but in addition there are some lovely small shops selling candles, gifts, groceries, cakes etc. and even a milliners. The combination of old and new has been achieved and nothing looks out of place. The streets are clean and everything looks well cared for: the inhabitants obviously take pride in their surroundings. When we visited there was also an outdoor market.

Those wishing to visit the Cathedral will find it well signposted from the main part of the town and there is a pleasant walk slightly beyond to reach it. There is the usual restaurant and gift shop attached.

Overall, it is a really beautiful place, and I would happily swap my town with it tomorrow.

Summary: Well worth a visit but be warned; you'll spend all day!