Tamworth Civic Society Heritage Open Day
St. Edithas Church, St. Edithas Close, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7DA
Admire the amazing architecture of Tamworth's rich built heritage through 1000 years from Anglo-Saxon burgh to modern town.
St. Editha's is the largest Parish Church in Staffordshire. The first Church was razed by attacking Danes in 874.
Attractions include:
Community & Heritage stalls, exhibits, & demonstrations from Tamworth's best independent & volunteer organisations.
Guided Tours of the magnificent building: learn its many special secrets.
The impressive 100 ft. tall Tower is open free offering visitors a rare opportunity to ascend the 106 outer & 101 inner steps of the unique 600 year old double spiral staircase.
Enjoy panoramic views. Visit the bell chamber.
Bell ringing. Hear the peal of ten bells, & try your hand at campanology.
Anglo-Saxon stone, historic paintings, statues, & significant stained glass. Appreciate fine work by William Morris, Edward Burne-Jones, Ford Madox Brown, & outstanding contemporary & modern windows.
Music to your ears from the Steinway Grand & celebrated Heritage Listed Harrison Organ.
Display of vestments, Archive material, Ruskin exhibition. Home-made refreshments.
Historic characters & re-enactors enhance the experience.
And a rare chance to discover the Spital Chapel, a unique haven of peace originally built in 1274 by Sir Philip de Marmion, who owned Tamworth Castle. Also open: Dosthill's ancient Norman Chapel & beautiful historic Church.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 13 September:
- Church open 1000-1400 Tower 1100-1400
Location & directions
St. Edithas Church, St. Edithas Close, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7DA
- Directions:
- The Church is at the centre of Tamworth & visible from all directions. Our other venue is on the ancient route north out of town, & well hidden: Spital Chapel between the Wigginton & Ashby Roads Tamworth B79 8RH Dosthill Church & Norman Chapel: Church Road Dosthill B77 1LU
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The church is large & spacious. Everyone is welcome. The Tower is narrow and the double helix staircase has 100s of steps, so those ascending & descending need to be fit with no health or mobility restrictions. Children under 8 years old cannot be admitted to the Tower; those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Spital Chapel & Dosthill Chapel very small but friendly. No toilets. Please check our media for announcements, updates, & further details.
Additional information
The Council stopped supporting HODs in 2018. Tamworth Civic Society stepped up to ensure the continuation of this important national event. We again proudly organise & co-ordinate Heritage Open Day for Tamworth this year as part of the Athelstan 1100 festival. Lots to see & do in our educational, enlightening, entertaining event. Church open to all 10am to 2pm. Guided tours. Historic characters. Creative displays. Tower opens 11am. A rare opportunity to climb the double spiral staircase free of charge. Historic Spital Chapel & Dosthill Church & Norman Chapel join us in welcoming visitors.
