Welcome to Your Cathedral

Lichfield Cathedral has been a place of prayer, welcome and wonder for over 1,300 years. Whether you are visiting for quiet reflection, exploring our history, joining us for worship, or attending one of our events, we are delighted to welcome you.

To help you plan your visit, we have gathered together some of the questions we are asked most often.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entry fee to visit the Cathedral?

No. Lichfield Cathedral entry by donation - We invite visitors to make a voluntary donation, with a suggested contribution of £5 per person, as this helps us care for the building and sustain our mission for future generations.

We would be grateful if you would consider Gift Aid on your donation (if you are eligible).

Why does the Cathedral ask for donations?

As a self-financing charity, Lichfield Cathedral receives no regular government funding, and only a very small proportion of our running costs is supported by the Church Commissioners. Every donation, large or small, helps us maintain this sacred space, offer daily worship, support our community, and prevent the Cathedral from making a mandatory entry charge.

Why does the Cathedral host concerts and events?

Our programme of concerts and cultural events plays an important part in supporting the life of the Cathedral. These events provide essential income, help protect the building and enable us to remain open for all. They also introduce many people to the Cathedral for the first time, enriching both our community and the wider city. We take great care to ensure every event is appropriate for this sacred space.  

What are the Cathedral’s opening times?

The Cathedral is open for sightseeing at:

Monday to Saturday: 10:00 to 17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Sunday: 12:00 to 17:00 (last entry 16:30)

Opening times occasionally change for services, concerts or special events, so we encourage visitors to check the calendar before travelling.

When are the daily services?

We offer worship every day, forming the heartbeat of Cathedral life.

A typical weekday includes:

Morning Prayer at 08:00
Eucharist at 12:30
Evening Prayer or Choral Evensong at 17:30
Additional services such as Compline take place on certain days.

On Sundays, services include:

Morning Prayer around 07:40
Eucharist at 08:00 or 10:30
Choral Evensong at 15:30 (please note that access to the east end is restricted during Evensong)

Are dogs allowed in the Cathedral?

Yes. We warmly welcome well behaved dogs on short leads during our visitor opening hours.

Please note:

• Dogs are not permitted in the Christmas Tree Festival, except for assistance dogs.
• Dogs are welcome at Sunday Evensong in the Nave only.
• Dogs are not permitted during evening services or events, except as noted above.
• From time to time restrict areas that dogs can visit due to the nature of exhibitions in the space.

Do I need to book in advance?

No. You can arrive during opening hours and check in with the visitor services team at the desk. Sightseeing is by donation and unticketed, we record visitors for the Office of National Statistics. Some concerts, tours and special events do require booking, and these will be clearly listed on our "What’s On" page.

Are there toilets at the Cathedral?

There are no public toilets inside the Cathedral itself.

Visitor toilets, including accessible facilities, are available next door in The Old Stables, located near the café.

Is there parking on site?

There is no public parking within the Cathedral Close, as it is a historic and protected area.
However, a small number of parking spaces are available for Blue Badge holders, located within the Close and allocated on a first come, first served basis. From time to time it may be necessary to close the accessible parking.

All other visitors are encouraged to use nearby city car parks, which are only a short walk from the Cathedral.

Is there a shop at the Cathedral?

Yes. Our Cathedral Shop is located inside the building and offers books, gifts, cards, devotional items and locally sourced products. It is open during visitor hours. 

Is there a café on site?

The café, located near The Old Stables, is currently being refurbished and will reopen in May 2026.

In the meantime, there are many excellent cafés and places to eat just a short walk away in the city.

Are chaplains available during my visit?

Yes. Our volunteer chaplains are usually present in the Cathedral every day. They are available to offer prayer, a listening ear, or pastoral support to anyone who would like it. You are always welcome to approach them during your visit. If chaplain is unavailable otherwise, speak to a member of staff/clergy.

Can I arrange a wedding or baptism at the Cathedral?

Yes. We are delighted to support those exploring baptism, confirmation or marriage.

Baptisms and Confirmations:
Baptism marks the beginning of life in the Christian community and can be arranged for children or adults. Adults preparing for confirmation are invited to join a short series of conversation groups. Please contact reception@lichfield-cathedral.org for more information.

Weddings:
Couples wishing to be married at the Cathedral will usually need a qualifying connection. If you are considering a wedding or service of blessing, we would be very glad to speak with you and help you explore the possibilities. Please contact the Cathedral team via reception@lichfield-cathedral.org.

What can I see during my visit?

There is much to discover, including the Lichfield Angel, the Herkenrode stained glass, medieval wall paintings, historic chapels, changing art exhibitions, and the beautiful Cathedral Close.

Is the Cathedral accessible?

We aim to offer a warm welcome to everyone. The Cathedral provides step-free access at the main entrance, and accessibility information is available here.

In addition, a small number of Blue Badge parking spaces are available within the Close to support visitors with limited mobility.

Can I take photographs?

Yes, photography is allowed, though certain exhibitions or chapels may have restrictions.
Professional and commercial photography or filming will require prior permission (per the Photography & Filming section).

Drones are not permitted on site, please refer to the Photography & Filming section of the website for the drone policy.

Who can I contact for more information?

You can reach the Cathedral team at:
T: 01543 306100
E: enquiries@lichfield-cathedral.org