The history of Lichfield will be in focus during a weekend of events.
Royal-themed events will take place on September 22 and 23 as part of Lichfield Heritage Weekend.
Venues will throw open their doors for free as part of the celebrations, including the 17th Century Dr Milley’s Hospital on Beacon Street, Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield Heritage Centre, and Lichfield Record Office in the Library.
Lichfield Cathedral, the City Cells in the Guildhall, The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum and St John’s Hospital will also be open to visitors and will host special royal events over the two days.
A number of guided tours are being offered for just £1 as part of the weekend-long event. Erasmus Darwin House will take people on timed tours of its fascinating cellar on Saturday at 12noon and 2pm.
Lichfield Cathedral is also offering a royal-themed tour on Saturday and Sunday at 2pm, which can be booked by calling the Cathedral Bookshop on 01543 306150.
Visit Lichfield’s royal-themed tours will also take place on Saturday at 11.30am and 2.30pm and on Sunday at 2.30pm. The guided walking tours offer a glimpse of Lichfield’s history told by an expert. The tours need to be booked in advance by calling Lichfield Tourist Information Centre on 01543 412112.
There will be lots of free activities and entertainment on the Market Square on Saturday 22 September, including the Samuel Johnson Birthday celebrations, face painting, sword and princess wand making, kings and queens market trail, a young town crier competition and entertainment by Go Ukulele Crazy and Intimate Theatre.
Children are invited to come dressed as a princess or knight and enter a competition to find the best costumes on Saturday. The winner will be announced on the Market Square at 2.30pm and will be awarded a family ticket to see Alice in Wonderland at the Lichfield Garrick.
Councillor Louise Flowith said: “As this is the Queen’s sixtieth year on the throne, we thought it only right to make it the theme for 2012’s Heritage Weekend.
“Every year more and more people join us to celebrate Lichfield’s rich history and enjoy visiting attractions and getting a glimpse of the city’s treasures. Many of the venues are running special events, tours and exhibitions over the two days, so make sure you join us for Lichfield Heritage Weekend.”
A full programme is available from Lichfield Tourist Information Centre in the Lichfield Garrick and from heritage venues across the city.
For more information, please visit www.visitlichfield.co.uk/heritageweekend or contact 01543 412112 or email info@visitlichfield.com.
