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Stafford & South Staffordshire

Heritage Attractions

Stafford & South Staffordshire

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Heritage

Stafford & South Staffordshire - Castles, Cathedrals, Monuments, Stately Homes & Palaces

Since the stone age, man has been creating majestic structures that we still marvel at today.



Whether you are interested in ancient monuments, battlefield sites, re-enactments, Roman and Norman forts and castles, Stately Homes, Country Houses, Historic Cathedrals, Ruined Abbeys etc, this is the page that should give you the information you need.


Here we try to list properties in private ownership but open to the public (even if only occasionally) as well as those in the care of the National Trust or English/Scottish Heritage.

We know that not all the properties in Stafford & South Staffordshire are listed. Please help us make this guide comprehensive by giving details of missing attractions here.

 

Heritage

Castles, Historic Monuments, etc

STAFFORD CASTLE & VISITORS CENTRE

Newport Road, Castle Bank, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 1DJ
Tel/Fax: 01785 257698
E-mail: ahh@staffordbc.gov.uk
Web: www.staffordbc.gov.uk/leisure
Opening Times: April to October, Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm. November to March, Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm. Schools & Group booking taken at all times by prior appointment.

900 years of history in action - built by William the Conqueror to subdue rebellious local people, Stafford Castle has dominated the Stafford landscape over 900 years.

 

  

Visitors today will find a more peaceful setting - you can follow the castle trail, exploring the castle ruins and taking in the panoramic views from the hilltop, stroll in the unique medieval herb garden and discover for yourself the dramatic story behind the castle walls.

 

Join in the exciting events - Stafford Castle is the venue for an exciting year round programme of events from historical re-enactments and Shakespeare productions to torch-light tours and children's' activities - there's something to interest all ages and tastes.


Disabled Access: Due to the nature of the site, disabled access is limited. Although staff will do all they can to help, it is advisable to call before your visit.
 

Directions: On the outskirts of Stafford, just off the A518 (Newport Road), South West of Stafford. J13 & J14 M6. Plenty of on site parking.


Rates: Admission Free. Charges may apply for some events, please call for details.

TUTBURY CASTLE

Tutbury, Nr Burton-upon-Trent
Tel: 01283 812129
E-mail: info@tutburycastle.com
Web: www.tutburycastle.com
Open: Easter Sunday to Mid September. Wednesday to Sunday 11am - 5pm. Group bookings taken throughout the year by prior arrangement.

Part ruined motte and Royal bailey castle dating from the 11th Century where Mary Queen of Scots was 4 times imprisoned. Offering a whole rage of new and exciting attractions, visitors are now able to see The Great hall, which is dressed as a 1570`s State Room with some Tudor furniture and fascinating artefacts. A Tudor garden and herbery has been recreated and Tudor/period music occasionally played on site. A gift shop and tea room selling light refreshments/lunches, cream teas, plus take-away service. Ample car and coach parking on site. *Sorry no access to the first floor.
*


The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance

They say we Brits can be a little eccentric, and when it comes to some of our more peculiar folk customs it's a charge that's hard to deny (As an eccentric Brit myself, I'm allowed to say things like that.)

If you want to see British eccentricity at its best, imagine it's a pleasant day in early September.

You're visiting Abbots Bromley, Staffordshire, having a quiet lunchtime drink in one of the five charming pubs to be found in the village.

You hear strange noises outside. You hear bellowing, singing, music.
More...

 

The Butter Cross Photo © Angella Streluk
The Butter Cross - Photo: Angella Streluk CCL


Castle Ring - Iron Age Hill Fort

Cannock Chase - near Cannock Wood

Largest of seven Iron Age forts in Staffordshire. It was built between 500BC and 43AD and covers around nine acres. The fort has two lines of defence to the North, West and South West whilst there are as many as four ditches and banks on the Eastern side. It is also the highest point on Cannock Chase. (801 feet). Open permanently.


Chartley Castle

On A518 Uttoxeter Road near Weston, Stafford

Ruins of castle with footpath through the area. Associations with Mary, Queen of Scots. Access by arrangement only.


Tamworth Castle

The Holloway, Lady Bank, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7NA
Tel: 01827 709626

Why not take a trip to Tamworth Castle and explore over 900 years of history. A magnificent motte and bailey castle, its curtain wall and shell-keep date from the late 12th Century. Your journey back in time begins behind the ancient fortress walls where Tudor and Jacobean buildings tower over the Medieval Banqueting Hall. Don’t miss the secret passage where you can fire an imaginary arrow through the arrow slit! Inside, delightfully restored period rooms give a glimpse into the life and times of past owners. Will you meet Baron Marmion, King James I, or any one of a number of Victorian residents or servants?



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Cathedrals, Churches, etc

Croxden Abbey

Off A50, three miles north west of Uttoxeter
Tel: 0    Fax: 0
E-mail: customers@english-heritage.org.uk
Web: www.english-heritage.org.uk

Founded in 1176 by Bertram de Verdun for monks of the Cistercian Order. Parts of the 13th Century Church still remain.


The Parish Church of St. Modwen

Market Place, Burton-upon-Trent
Tel: 01283 536235
E-mail: mail@burtonsaintpaul.org.uk

St. Modwen's Church is generally acknowledged to be one of the finest examples of Palladian type Gothic architecture in the country and stands on a site used for Christian worship for over one thousand years and where Wulfric Spot's Abbey, a building that for 500 years enjoyed a colourful and distinguished existence, stood. A new church was built in 1726 and the visitor can see a sixteenth century coffer and a font which dates from 1662.


The Priory Church of St. Mary The Virgin

Tutbury, Nr Burton-upon-Trent

Built in the late eleventh century by Henry de Ferrers. The Church reflects the importance of Tutbury in Norman times. The west front with its great door, is set in a series of six receding arches and a square label.


St. Chad's Church

Hunter Street, Burton-upon-Trent, DE14 2SS
Tel: 01283 564457
Web: www.chadschurch.care4free.net

Betjemen called it "a cathedral in a mean street.." G F Bodley's last parish church, truly a remarkably splendid example of Edwardian architecture and well worth a visit. St. Chad's is possibly the finest single building in the town, sadly hidden away but worth seeking out.


The Church of Holy Angels

Hoar Cross, Nr Burton-upon-Trent
Web: www.openchurchestrust.org.uk

Known as the 'Cathedral of the Midlands', the church was designed by George Frederick Bodley and built in 1872-6 by Mrs Meynall-Ingram as a memorial to her husband, Hugo Francis Meynall-Ingram, who died in 1871. It is of red sandstone construction with a central embattled tower and richly furnished.


St John's Hospital & Chapel

St. John Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6PB
Tel: 01543 251884    Fax: 01543 418062

The Hospital, a place of hospitality and now a home to elderly people, is one of the finest 15th century brick buildings in the country. The magnificent stained glass window in the ancient chapel, built in 1135, was designed by John Piper, famous for the east window at Coventry Cathedral.


Emmanuel Christian Centre

Netherstowe Lane, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6AY
Tel: 01543 254596
E-mail: email@ecclichfield.org.uk
Web: www.ecclichfield.org.uk

Emmanuel Christian Centre has been in the heart of the city of Lichfield for over 40 years now, and we aim to be an integral part of our local community, reflecting the grace and love of Jesus to everyone we meet, and to each other. On visiting Emmanuel you will find a group of people from all walks of life who have an exciting and meaningful faith in God. Our Sunday morning worship is joyful and full of life and the children meet in their own high energy 'Megamix'. During the week our focus is Life Groups, a more intimate environment for growing as Christians, supporting and encouraging one another and sharing the love of God.


Wade Street Church

Wade Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6HL
Tel: 01543 255861
E-mail: ianh@xalt.co.uk
Web: www.ldb.co.uk

Wade Street Church is a growing local church based in the centre of Lichfield. All kinds of people meet there regularly to worship God, encourage one another, help meet the needs of the community, and to tell other people about the fact that Jesus Christ is alive today and making a difference in the world. We are drawn from all Christian traditions (and none), but find a sense of unity in our worship of and witness to the Lord Jesus Christ. Sunday worship is a lively affair and designed to equip worshippers to serve God in their various environments during the week, and there are other activities during the week which enable us to reach out into the local community.


Lichfield Methodist Church

Tamworth Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6JJ
Tel: 01543 256333

Please contact the Church for further information.



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Stately Homes & Gardens, Country Houses, etc

STAFFORD CASTLE & VISITORS CENTRE

Newport Road, Castle Bank, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 1DJ
Tel/Fax: 01785 257698
E-mail: ahh@staffordbc.gov.uk
Web: www.staffordbc.gov.uk/leisure
Opening Times: April to October, Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm. November to March, Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm. Schools & Group booking taken at all times by prior appointment.

900 years of history in action - built by William the Conqueror to subdue rebellious local people, Stafford Castle has dominated the Stafford landscape over 900 years.

 

  

Visitors today will find a more peaceful setting - you can follow the castle trail, exploring the castle ruins and taking in the panoramic views from the hilltop, stroll in the unique medieval herb garden and discover for yourself the dramatic story behind the castle walls.

 

Join in the exciting events - Stafford Castle is the venue for an exciting year round programme of events from historical re-enactments and Shakespeare productions to torch-light tours and children's' activities - there's something to interest all ages and tastes.


Disabled Access: Due to the nature of the site, disabled access is limited. Although staff will do all they can to help, it is advisable to call before your visit.
 

Directions: On the outskirts of Stafford, just off the A518 (Newport Road), South West of Stafford. J13 & J14 M6. Plenty of on site parking.


Rates: Admission Free. Charges may apply for some events, please call for details.

THE ANCIENT HIGH HOUSE

Greengate Street, Stafford, ST16 2HS
Tel: 01785 619131
E-mail: heritage@staffordbc.gov.uk
Web: www.staffordbc.gov.uk/leisure
Opening Times: Open all year, Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm.

The Ancient High House was built in 1595, this splendid building is one of the finest Tudor buildings in the country and England's largest timber-framed town house. Period room settings reflecting the history of the house.

 

Take a fascinating trip through the changing fortunes of the property via superb period room settings.

 

  
Journey from Elizabethan days, through the Civil War era when King Charles I stayed here, to Victorian times when the building was home to the region's most important families. A museum to Staffordshire's Yeomanry Regiment occupies the top floor. School visits. Gift shop.
 

Disabled Access: Due to the nature of the site, disabled access is limited. Although staff will do all they can to help, it is advisable to call before your visit.
 

Directions: Stafford Town Centre (J13 or J14 M6). Parking available near by.
 

Rates: Admission Free. Charges may apply for some events, please call for details.

IZAAK WALTON'S COTTAGE

Worston Lane, Shallowford, Nr Stone, Stafford, ST15 0PA
Tel: 01785 760278 (Apr-Oct) or 01785 619619 (Nov-Mar)
E-mail: heritage@staffordbc.gov.uk
Web: www.staffordbc.gov.uk/leisure
Opening Times: Open May - August, Saturday and Sunday, 1pm - 5pm

Stafford's rural heritage is embodied in Izaak Walton's Cottage, the charming 16th century home of the celebrated author of 'The Complete Angler.'

 

The thatched, half-timbered cottage at Shallowford, near Eccleshall gives a fascinating insight into the history of angling and the life of a writer whose work remains 'a unique celebration of the English countryside'.

 

  

Wander through the historic rose and herb garden or enjoy the heritage events, which are held here regularly. On-site parking available. More information on the Cottage can be found at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/heritage
 

Disabled Access: Due to the nature of the site, disabled access is limited. Although staff will do all they can to help, it is advisable to call before your visit.
 

Directions: Shallowford, off A5013 (towards Eccleshall) 5 miles North of Stafford, J14 M6. On site parking available.
 

Rates: Admission Free. Charges may apply for some events, please call for details.

BOSCOBEL HOUSE

Boscobel Lane, Bishopswood, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST19 9AR
Tel: 01902 850244

Boscobel is a beautiful but modest timber framed house with a unique role in history. After being defeated at Worcester, Charles II hid from the Roundheads in the nearby oak tree, evaded capture and escaped to France. Later, he returned to restore the monarchy to England. The oak tree has disappeared since, but the famous Royal Oak in the grounds is descended from it and attracts visitors from all over. A guided tour of the house will tell you about the Priest's Holes, used for hiding people away from site; and the garden is open for you to explore.


WESTON PARK

Weston under Lizard, Nr Shifnal, Staffordshire, TF11 8LE
Tel: 01952 852100    Fax: 01952 850430
E-mail: enquiries@weston-park.com
Web: www.weston-park.com

The beauty and tranquillity of the House is the result of centuries of creativity, collecting and patronage of artists and craftsmen, by generations of one family, the Bridgemans, Earls of Bradford. Gifted to the nation in 1986 by Richard the 7th and present Earl of Bradford, and with the support of the National Heritage Memorial Fund, it is now in the care of the Trustees of The Weston Park Foundation. Award winning 17th Century Stately Home set in 1,000 acres of 'Capability' Brown Parkland and situated on the Staffordshire/Shropshire border. The attractions include the House, Adventure Playground, Miniature Railway, Gallery and Gift Shop, Stables Coffee Bar and Restaurant, Auditorium, formal gardens, woodland walks, lakes, follies and much much more. ''New for 2006'' Yew Hedge Maze and Orchard. Please call for admission prices and times.


Erasmus Darwin Centre

Darwin House, Beacon Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 7AD
Tel: 01543 306260
E-mail: erasmus.d@virgin.net

Georgian home of Erasmus Darwin, Grandfather of Charles Darwin and leading doctor, scientist, botanist, inventor and poet of the 18th Century. Located in the idyllic surroundings of the Cathedral Close. Period furnishings, interactive displays, 18th Century herb garden.


Middleton Hall

Middleton, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B78 2AE
Tel: 01827 283095    Fax: 01827 285717
E-mail: middletonhall@btconnect.com
Web: www.middletonhalltrust.co.uk

Delightful former home of Francis Willughby, 17th century naturalist and a founder member of The Royal Society. It dates from 1285, with parts undergoing restoration. The grounds feature an 18 acre lake, walled gardens, nature trail and craft shops. Civil weddings and conference facilities available. Play area & nature trails.


Shugborough Estate

Milford, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST17 0XB
Tel: 01889 881388
E-mail: shugborough.promotions@staffordshire.gov.uk
Web: www.shugborough.org.uk

Shugborough is the ancestral home of the late fifth Earl of Lichfield, who as Patrick Lichfield was known worldwide as a leading photographer. The 18th century Mansion House contains a fine collection of ceramics, silver, paintings and French furniture. Part of the house continues to be lived in by the Earl's family. Visitors can enjoy the 18 acre Grade 1 listed Historic Garden and a unique collection of neo-classical monuments by James 'Athenian' Stuart. Other attractions include the original servants' quarters. The working laundry, kitchens, brewhouse and coach houses have all been lovingly restored. Costumed guides can show how the servants lived and worked over 100 years ago. Shugborough Park Farm is a Georgian farmstead that features an agricultural museum, working corn mill and rare breeds centre. The livestock are all historic breeds and in the farmhouse visitors can see brick bread ovens in operation and butter and cheese making in the dairy. Our annual programme of events range from seasonal craft fairs to the delights of candlelit evenings, a Victorian street market or spectacular firework displays. Teachers will be pleased to note that there is an extensive educational programme available for children of all ages with an attractive selection of adult tours and demonstrations. There is something for everyone on the Shugborough Estate.


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