Lichfield Cathedral is set to host a series of tours during 2012.
Volunteer guides will be taking visitors on a series of themed looks around the historic building.
The Revd Dr Pete Wilcox, Canon Chancellor and Acting Dean of Lichfield Cathedral, said: “Tours at Lichfield Cathedral are a memorable experience – we will be taking visitors back in time this summer.
“In 2012, we are focusing on two turbulent periods in the Cathedral’s history: the 7th Century, when Chad came preaching peace in war-like Mercia, and the 17th Century, when the Cathedral was reduced to ruins by the ravages of the civil war and then restored – complete with a stunning refurbishment of its library.”
Inside Cathedral Tours (2pm). £5.40 per person:
- Anglo Saxon: Experience the origins of Lichfield Cathedral through the eyes of an Anglo Saxon. Marvel at the Cathedral’s own exquisite treasures – the St Chad Gospels and the Lichfield Angel. Dates: May 2, July 17, August 21 and September 14.
- Blood on the Stones – a Civil War tour: Experience the devastation and restoration of Lichfield Cathedral during the sieges of 1643 and 1646. Dates: June 6, August 16, September 18 and September 27.
Outside Cathedral Tours (2pm). £5.40 per person:
- Cathedral Under Siege: A tour of the Close and surrounding area with a Civil War focus. Dates: May 12, June 14 and July 10.
- The Cathedral Close: Visit the Medieval Close surrounding Lichfield Cathedral and discover its past and present. Dates: May 24, June 20, July 14 and August 18.
Library Tours (10.30am). £9 per person:
- Turning the Pages of History library tours – new for 2012: Explore the hidden treasures of the historical library, built in 1249. Dates: May 12, June 9, July 21, September 22 and October 2.
- Bible focus. Dates: August 15, August 18 and September 12.
For more information on the tour content or to make a booking, contact the Book and Gift Shop on 01543 306150 or email bookshop@lichfield-cathedral.org. To read the Cathedral’s new Guided Tours leaflet, visit the website.