Lichfield Cathedral Day Trip from Burton upon Trent

Staffordshire is rich in heritage, and few landmarks capture the region's ancient story quite like Lichfield Cathedral. Famous for being the only medieval three-spired cathedral in the United Kingdom, this breathtaking monument is located just a short journey south from Burton upon Trent. Whether you are a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for an enriching day out in the Midlands, a day trip to Lichfield is an essential part of any Staffordshire itinerary.

By choosing Three Queens Hotel & Lodge in Burton upon Trent as your base, you can enjoy a restful stay with free on-site parking, modern room amenities, and seamless travel connections along the A38 corridor.

How to Reach Lichfield Cathedral from Burton upon Trent

Lichfield is situated approximately 13 miles south of Burton upon Trent, making it exceptionally easy to visit for a morning or full-day excursion.

• By Car: The drive takes roughly 20 minutes. Simply join the A38 southbound from Burton upon Trent and follow the signs directly into Lichfield. The Three Queens Hotel offers free on-site parking for all staying guests, meaning you can easily come and go without worrying about vehicle storage.
• By Train: Burton upon Trent railway station is located just one mile from the hotel. Regular rail services connect Burton to Lichfield Trent Valley and Lichfield City stations, making public transport a hassle-free option.
• By Bus: Local bus services also operate between Burton town centre and Lichfield, giving you plenty of flexible transport choices.

Highlights of Lichfield Cathedral

Dating back over 1,300 years, Lichfield Cathedral stands on a site dedicated to St Chad, the 7th-century Bishop of Mercia. Known affectionately as the 'Ladies of the Vale' due to its three towering spires, the cathedral boasts a wealth of treasures waiting to be discovered.

1. The Magnificent West Front

Before stepping inside, take time to admire the striking West Front. Adorned with more than one hundred carved figures depicting kings, prophets, and saints, this facade is one of the finest surviving examples of English Gothic craftsmanship.

2. The Lichfield Angel

Discovered during archaeological excavations beneath the cathedral nave in 2003, the Lichfield Angel is an extraordinary Anglo-Saxon limestone carving dating to around 800 AD. Believed to depict the Archangel Gabriel, this rare sculpture retains traces of its original paint.

3. The St Chad Gospels

Also known as the Lichfield Gospels, this illuminated manuscript dates back to circa 730 AD, making it older than the Book of Kells. Subject to preservation schedules, this precious relic is displayed within the cathedral's Chapter House.

4. The Herkenrode Glass

Installed in the cathedral's Lady Chapel in the early 19th century, the 16th-century stained glass was rescued from the Abbey of Herkenrode in Belgium. The vibrant Renaissance panels illuminate the chapel with rich colour and biblical storytelling.

Exploring the Surrounding Historic City

Beyond the cathedral walls, Lichfield offers plenty to keep visitors entertained for an entire afternoon:

• The Cathedral Close: Stroll through the tranquil, cobbled close lined with medieval and Georgian houses, former theological colleges, and leafy walkways.
• Erasmus Darwin House: Located adjacent to the Cathedral Close, this former home of physician and Enlightenment polymath Dr Erasmus Darwin (grandfather of Charles Darwin) features restored herb gardens and fascinating interactive exhibits.
• Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum: A short walk into the city centre brings you to the birthplace of Dr Samuel Johnson, author of the famous 1755 English dictionary. Explore four floors of period rooms and personal memorabilia.
• Beacon Park: For a relaxing outdoor stroll, Beacon Park spans over 70 acres with formal gardens, lakeside paths, and views looking back toward the cathedral spires.

Dining in Lichfield and Burton upon Trent

Lichfield's historic centre is packed with independent tearooms, bakeries, and charming lunch spots where you can stop for refreshments during your sightseeing. After exploring the cathedral and city streets, you can head back to Burton upon Trent to relax for the evening.

Three Queens Hotel is situated on Bridge Street, just a 5-minute walk from Burton's vibrant town centre. While the hotel does not operate on-site dining, guests have quick and easy walking access to Burton's wide selection of traditional coaching inns, local real ale pubs, independent pizzerias, Indian restaurants, and contemporary bistros.

Your Comfortable Base at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge

After a day of sightseeing across Staffordshire, return to the quiet comfort of Three Queens Hotel & Lodge. With 62 comfortable rooms, we accommodate solo travellers, couples, groups, and families alike.

Choose from our wide selection of room configurations:

• Single and Standard Double Rooms
• Executive Double Rooms
• Standard and Executive Twin Rooms
• Family and Quadruple Rooms
• Our spacious Mews Apartment
• Our luxurious four-poster Suite

Every bedroom at Three Queens Hotel is fully en-suite with a private bathroom, flat-screen television with Freeview channels and radio, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, complimentary toiletries, and in-room tea and coffee making facilities. Guests also enjoy free high-speed WiFi throughout the property, daily housekeeping, and 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry services. Our reception desk is staffed daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, with a dedicated night porter on duty from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am to assist you around the clock.

Ready to plan your Staffordshire getaway? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel today and explore Lichfield Cathedral and beyond with ease.

Planning a visit? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge.