Pretty Staffordshire destination dubbed the 'most English place in the UK'
Just a two-hour journey from Liverpool, nestled in the heart of Staffordshire, sits a charming and thriving historic city. Once dubbed the "most English place in the country", Lichfield epitomises geographical "middle England" and happens to be Britain's most inland city.
With excellent rail connections to major cities nationwide, this cathedral city welcomes tourists with a blend of historic appeal, cultural heritage, and contemporary living. Whether you're interested in strolling down ancient cobbled lanes, relaxing with a picnic in Beacon Park, or indulging in retail therapy around Lichfield Market Square, this compact 800 year old city offers countless delights to explore.
Originally established as a humble settlement in the 7th century, Lichfield has evolved into a vibrant city housing nearly 107,000 residents. It comes after news that an abandoned UK Butlin's site is now seaside town's 'hell hole' hotel.
Unlike renowned destinations such as Oxford and York, which each welcome over seven million tourists annually, Lichfield remains a captivating yet undiscovered gem, attracting just 125,000 visitors per year, reports the Liverpool Echo.
As the birthplace of Samuel Johnson, the celebrated author and poet who created the first 'great English dictionary' in 1755, Lichfield holds significant literary importance. Tourists can explore the life and legacy of this distinguished author by touring his former residence.
Lichfield Cathedral, a cherished landmark that has stood for over a thousand years, symbolises the city's historical significance. It's the only cathedral in the UK with three spires and is affectionately known as 'the Ladies of the Vale'.
Visitors are invited to explore 1300 years of history within the cathedral and chapel walls. The renowned Herkenrode stained glass and the Lichfield Gospels can be admired here, and if you time your visit right, you might even get to attend a service or concert.
Lichfield is a hub of creativity, hosting various arts events throughout the year. The annual Lichfield Festival, an 11-day event, is a particular highlight, showcasing music, dance, theatre, and visual arts, while celebrating talent both locally and internationally.
For those looking for some retail therapy or a memento from their trip, Lichfield Market, held every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday on the historic Market Square, is a must-visit. Up to 52 stalls offer a wide variety of quality items, including baked goods, homemade crafts, and fresh produce.
For those seeking a peaceful retreat with expansive gardens and endless walking trails, Beacon Park is the destination of choice. Covering more than 70 acres of beautiful gardens and open space, Beacon Park is a haven for nature lovers with its impressive floral displays, woodland walks, and tree-lined paths, making it perfect for family outings.
In September 2024, the beloved Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park celebrated its 25th anniversary. Thousands of locals and visitors from across the country continue to enjoy a free musical and visual spectacle set against the park's stunning backdrop.
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Daily Mirror
12 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Pretty Staffordshire destination dubbed the 'most English place in the UK'
Despite its rich history, buzzing marketplace and cultural heritage, Lichfield remains an under-the-radar destination, only attracting around 125,000 visitors each year Just a two-hour journey from Liverpool, nestled in the heart of Staffordshire, sits a charming and thriving historic city. Once dubbed the "most English place in the country", Lichfield epitomises geographical "middle England" and happens to be Britain's most inland city. With excellent rail connections to major cities nationwide, this cathedral city welcomes tourists with a blend of historic appeal, cultural heritage, and contemporary living. Whether you're interested in strolling down ancient cobbled lanes, relaxing with a picnic in Beacon Park, or indulging in retail therapy around Lichfield Market Square, this compact 800 year old city offers countless delights to explore. Originally established as a humble settlement in the 7th century, Lichfield has evolved into a vibrant city housing nearly 107,000 residents. It comes after news that an abandoned UK Butlin's site is now seaside town's 'hell hole' hotel. Unlike renowned destinations such as Oxford and York, which each welcome over seven million tourists annually, Lichfield remains a captivating yet undiscovered gem, attracting just 125,000 visitors per year, reports the Liverpool Echo. As the birthplace of Samuel Johnson, the celebrated author and poet who created the first 'great English dictionary' in 1755, Lichfield holds significant literary importance. Tourists can explore the life and legacy of this distinguished author by touring his former residence. Lichfield Cathedral, a cherished landmark that has stood for over a thousand years, symbolises the city's historical significance. It's the only cathedral in the UK with three spires and is affectionately known as 'the Ladies of the Vale'. Visitors are invited to explore 1300 years of history within the cathedral and chapel walls. The renowned Herkenrode stained glass and the Lichfield Gospels can be admired here, and if you time your visit right, you might even get to attend a service or concert. Lichfield is a hub of creativity, hosting various arts events throughout the year. The annual Lichfield Festival, an 11-day event, is a particular highlight, showcasing music, dance, theatre, and visual arts, while celebrating talent both locally and internationally. For those looking for some retail therapy or a memento from their trip, Lichfield Market, held every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday on the historic Market Square, is a must-visit. Up to 52 stalls offer a wide variety of quality items, including baked goods, homemade crafts, and fresh produce. For those seeking a peaceful retreat with expansive gardens and endless walking trails, Beacon Park is the destination of choice. Covering more than 70 acres of beautiful gardens and open space, Beacon Park is a haven for nature lovers with its impressive floral displays, woodland walks, and tree-lined paths, making it perfect for family outings. In September 2024, the beloved Lichfield Proms in Beacon Park celebrated its 25th anniversary. Thousands of locals and visitors from across the country continue to enjoy a free musical and visual spectacle set against the park's stunning backdrop.
Edinburgh Live
a day ago
- Edinburgh Live
Man moves to Edinburgh from London and receives 'abuse' from Scottish people
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info An Edinburgh resident from England spoke out on TikTok about online "abuse" he received after moving to the Scottish capital from London. The man took to social media, sharing his 'disappointment' at the response, claiming "everyone I've met here is really nice". He filmed a video while walking through the Meadows, asking people to "be more compassionate". He said: "I posted a video a few weeks ago about how much I love living in Edinburgh after living in London, and the amount of abuse that I got from Scottish people saying, 'We don't want you here. Go back to England. Stop telling people to move to Edinburgh,' [as if] I have the kind of power to make a person move house. "It was really disappointing to be honest. Everyone I've met here is really nice, so I'm not sure who all these super angry individuals are. "Imagine what would have happened if I'd have made a video saying that I didn't like Edinburgh. I can't win. Imagine the backlash. "It was really disappointing, to be honest. I love Scottish people. I think they're so nice and they've been nothing but welcoming to me here, but Jesus Christ on TikTok - the hate. "I get it right. It's hard times for people. Prices go up when more people move to a place, I understand. But it's very difficult to isolate that to just Edinburgh. All around the UK, people are finding it extremely difficult to get by. "Anyone who wants to live in the center of a town or a city - it's so ridiculously expensive now I think we all just need to be a little bit more compassionate." Sympathetic locals took to the comments. One said: "Oh God, I am from Edinburgh. I'm so sorry you have been abused." Another shared: "Cybernats are the pits. Online anti-English trolls are the worst." A third penned: "I'm Scottish but have moved back to Edinburgh from London after 25 years and I prefer England. I can't stand Scots who walk around with a chip on their shoulder and even now colleagues are funny with me because I lived down there."
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Scottish Sun
The Yorkshire town that's been dubbed the ‘Italy of England' with historic viaduct and river boats
IN Yorkshire is one of the UK's most beautiful towns - and it's even been compared to Italy. Knaresborough has waterways and plenty of boats, so it's not too hard to see the comparison, especially in the summertime. 4 Knaresborough is a beautiful town in Yorkshire Credit: Alamy 4 It's even been compared to looking like Italy Credit: Alamy On social media, one visitor recently called Knaresborough "the Italy of England." It showed visitors paddling along the River Nidd looking up at the towering viaduct, and tourists pottering around the town's winding streets. In Knaresborough, you'll also find riverside cafes, steep little streets, and plenty of historic attractions too. It's widely considered one of the most beautiful places in the country. On the social media post, another person commented: "It's one of my favourite places in the whole world." Knaresborough is known for its stunning natural beauty, particularly along the River Nidd where locals and tourists can hire out boats and paddleboards - much like they do in certain Italian destinations. The town is known for having a huge viaduct which carries the Harrogate line over the River Nidd. It's a big attraction that draws in lots of visitors every year. Knaresborough is also home to the oldest tourist attraction in England, Mother Shipton's Cave. The cave is the birthplace of England's most famous prophetess, Mother Shipton. The UK towns with such magnificent scenery they're known as 'Little Switzerland' 4 There are plenty of riverside cafes and restaurants Credit: Alamy Mother Shipton predicted lots of historical events, including the great fire of London and the black death. Inside the cave is a Petrifying Well, where objects can be seen turned to stone. The attraction sits on the banks of the River Nidd and tourists have been charged to go inside since the year 1630. Knaresborough also has a ruined fortress which lots of visitors have said is the best place to get views "over the town, river and viaduct." Find out more about Knaresborough from someone who grew up there. She has all the top tips including where to hire out a boat to take it down the River Nidd. Her favourite riverside cafe is called Marigolds and she has a suggestion of pubs around the town. One of her favourites is Carriages, which she described as having a "cosy atmosphere and tasty food". In the summer, it's a great spot for pretty views of Knaresborough train station. Plus, discover the UK's best seaside destinations revealed – with a small English resort making the top 10 for the first time. And see more quaint British villages with toy-town cottages, car-free roads and cosy pubs – handpicked by our travel writers.
