Lichfield's Cathedral Close has a history dating back to to the 12th
century, when the bishop of Lichfield created an enclosed space to
defend the emerging city from outside invaders. It now contains to some
of the most historical buildings in the West Midlands and Warwickshire.
It is home to Lichfield Cathedral, a stunning example of English
medieval Gothic architecture, and a series of eighteenth century
residences and gardens, including the house of Erasmus Darwin, the
grandfather of the scientist Charles Darwin. The site was the location
of trauma during the English Civil Wars: as the royalists and
parliamentarians struggled for control of a pivotal point in the battle
for England's future, they destroyed many older buildings, leaving the
scars of conflict indelibly etched on Lichfield city centre.
The Birmingham History Network offers its members the opportunity to
take a tour of this beautiful and historic area with the assistance of a
professional guide provided by the Erasmus Darwin Museum. The tour will
cost £2.50 per person and will begin at Erasmus Darwin House at 1330
exactly: please turn up at least 15 minutes before hand. The tour will
last 90 minutes.
PLEASE NOTE: WE CAN HAVE A MAXIMUM OF 22 PEOPLE ON THIS TOUR. PLEASE
ONLY SIGN UP IF YOU ARE SURE YOU CAN ATTEND. WE ALSO CANNOT ALLOW GUESTS
ON THIS OCCASION, UNLESS THEY JOIN THE GROUP AND APPLY THEMSELVES.
As per usual, we will go for a drink after the tour is completed.
Date and time: Saturday 25th April 2015: 1330.
Place: Erasmus Darwin House, Beacon Street, Lichfield.
