Lichfield Cathedral

Lichfield Cathedral is the only 3-spired medieval cathedral in England; its spires have long been known as ‘the Ladies of the Vale’. Founded by Chad in the 7th century (and dedicated to him and St Mary) the present Gothic building largely took shape between the 12th and 14th centuries. It was particularly badly damaged during the Civil War – canon balls destroyed parts and wrecked others – but subsequently restored. Lichfield Cathedral is the repository for the 8th century Chad Gospels and also home to the Lichfield Angel, a piece of Anglo-Saxon carving discovered during building work. Among the many other treasures is the marble memorial ‘Sleeping Children’, which is particularly evocative. Note – there is no entry fee to the cathedral, but they may be charges for particular aspects of it, such as entry to the Library.