The only three spired English cathedral was praised for continuing to meet high standards across all areas of its visitor offer in Visit England’s biennial assessments.
Lichfield Cathedral has been awarded 93% by the national tourism body Visit England.
It will now be put forward for two national accolades, Gold standard visitor attraction and Best Told Story.
Simon Warburton, Chief Operating Officer said
“I am thrilled that the hard work of the Cathedral team has been recognised. A huge amount of work goes into making Lichfield Cathedral a high quality tourist attraction, and whilst I’ve always believed we performed to a high standard, it is reassuring to receive confirmation via this independent accreditation scheme.”
The Dean of Lichfield, The Right Revd Bishop Jan McFarlane, said,
“Clearly the assessor was impressed with the variety of offer the Cathedral puts on, and I’m pleased to say nearly 22,000 people visited over May to see the Longest Yarn.
This in turn supports the local economy with more visitors for the shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels.”
And Lichfield Cathedral has just unveiled its summer programme, A Whale of a Summer: a season of art, photography, family activities and a reflection on women’s health.
From July 23 the cathedral will be transformed into an underwater haven when it hosts artist Tessa Campbell Fraser, Whales.
Whales at Winchester Cathedral
Three sperm whales crafted from recycled ghost netting and delicate materials will be suspended from the nave and offer a powerful reminder of the impact human activity has on ocean life.
Running alongside the art installation is the internationally acclaimed Ocean Photographer of the Year 2025 presented by Oceanographic Magazine and Blancpain.
It celebrates the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems across the globe and features more than 100 images, exploring life beneath the waves, hidden ecosystems, marine life and the fragile beauty of our oceans.
Lichfield Cathedral is bringing back The Beach for 2026 too, with sand based play in the heart of the Close alongside other family activities including the chance for children to create their own sea creatures and contribute to a growing community display.
In August, Wisdom from the Waves explores women’s health through the remarkable connection between whales and humans -among the few species known to experience menopause.
Inspired by this parallel, the programme reframes menopause through talks, guided tours and discussions grounded in faith and community, as well as a welcoming Menopause Café and wellbeing sessions.
The programme also celebrates the lives of women who have shaped both Christianity and the history of Lichfield Cathedral.
Whale of a Summer – July 23 – Aug 31. Find out more here.
