A Whale of a Summer
Thursday 23 July - Monday 31 August 2026
This summer, Lichfield Cathedral invites you to dive deep into a season of wonder, reflection and creativity with A Whale of a Summer.
From soaring whale sculptures suspended in the Cathedral’s Nave to award‑winning ocean photography, hands‑on family activities and thoughtful conversations, the Cathedral becomes a space to explore our shared connection to the oceans, and to one another.
WHALES by Tessa Campbell Fraser
Experience the oceans like never before with Whales, a striking installation by artist Tessa Campbell Fraser. Three majestic sperm whale sculptures, made from recycled ghost netting, silk chiffon, and latex, appear to glide through the Cathedral’s nave, a powerful reminder of what can be lost if human hands fail to care for our planet.
Ocean Photographer of the Year
Over 100 award-winning photographs from the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025 collection are on display, including the grand title winner, Yury Ivanov from Indonesia. His striking image of two tiny amphipods, just 3mm long, resting on coral, captivated the judges for its vivid colour, perfect symmetry, and the extraordinary patience and skill required to capture it.
Fin-Tastic Families
Fin-tastic Families is a summer of creative fun inspired by the Cathedral’s Whales installation and Ocean Photographer of the Year. Throughout summer, families can drop in to make sea creatures for a growing underwater display. The programme ends with a Whale Send Off on 31 August, and the finished Fin-tastic Families display is open 31 August–6 September.
Jonah and the Whale: Family Trail & Activities
Fun & Faith: Jonah and the Whale invites families to enjoy interactive sessions of games, crafts and storytelling exploring Jonah’s journey. Discover themes of courage, faith and second chances on 12 and 20 August. Continue the adventure with the free Journey with Jonah Trail, available daily throughout the summer holidays.
The Whale! Circus Show with Puppets
Bold explorers are invited to squeeze inside an enormous inflatable whale and experience a captivating story of beautiful sea creatures and their battle to survive in an ocean full of rubbish.
Featuring exquisite puppets, comedy and music, this unforgettable show explores how we can all play a part in protecting our oceans.
Wisdom from the Waves: Reframing Menopause
Wisdom from the Waves is a unique three-day programme inspired by the remarkable connection between whales and humans, two of the very few species known to experience menopause. Through talks, conversations, a Menopause Café and guided tours, explore perimenopause, menopause and beyond as a season of wisdom, wellbeing, connection and growth.
The Beach
Returning for its fifth year, The Beach at Lichfield Cathedral has become a much-loved summer tradition, welcoming thousands of visitors to enjoy free family fun in the heart of the city.
Bring your buckets and spades, build sandcastles, sit back and relax, and enjoy a taste of the seaside ...at Lichfield Cathedral!