The Franciscan Friary, Lichfield

The Franciscan Friary in Lichfield is a medieval monastery with surviving stone walls of its cloister and sections of the church nave still visible. The ruins now sit within public gardens in the town center, allowing visitors to walk among the ancient masonry.

The friary was founded in 1237 when Bishop Stavenby granted land to the Grey Friars, establishing a new religious center in Lichfield. It operated for nearly three centuries until Henry VIII ordered its closure in 1538 as part of the dissolution of monasteries.

The Franciscan monks were central to the community, known for their work with the poor and sick in the town. Their presence shaped how people in Lichfield thought about religious duty and charity.

The site is located near Friary Road between Swan Road and Beacon Park, making it easily accessible from central Lichfield. Since the ruins are set in open gardens, wear comfortable walking shoes and prepare for the weather, as there is no shelter among the ancient walls.

King Henry III donated oak timber to help build the friary, a generous gift that shows the site had support from royalty early in its history. This royal backing helped the monastery develop into a substantial stone structure that lasted for centuries.

Location: Lichfield

Inception: 13 century

GPS coordinates: 52.68190,-1.83008

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:22