Swan

The Midlands & the Marches


Stafford's best place to eat, drink and sleep is a one-stop shop. In the centre of town, this former coaching inn has a brasserie-style restaurant, two bars (cocktail and traditional courtyard; the latter hosts live music in summer) and a cafe-tearoom. Some of its 31 beautiful rooms (doubles including breakfast from £110) have original stone fireplaces and wooden beams.

Parking is limited but free for overnight guests.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Midlands & the Marches attractions

1. Ancient High House

0.03 MILES

Built in 1595 and now surrounded by High St shops, the Ancient High House is believed to be the largest remaining timber-framed Tudor town house in…

2. Stafford Castle

1.39 MILES

The hilltop remains of Stafford Castle, a classic Norman moat and bailey, sit romantically in a forest glade 1 mile southwest of town, just off the A518…

3. Shugborough

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This regal, neoclassical mansion is the ancestral home of royal photographer Lord Lichfield. A good proportion of the wall space is devoted to his work;…

4. World of Wedgwood

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Set in attractive parkland 8 miles south of Hanley, the modern production centre for Josiah Wedgwood's porcelain empire displays an extensive collection…

5. Cosford Royal Air Force Museum

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This famous aerospace museum 13 miles east of Ironbridge is run by the Royal Air Force, whose pilots steered many of these winged wonders across the skies…

6. Erasmus Darwin House

14.57 MILES

After turning down the job of royal physician to King George III, Erasmus Darwin became a leading light in the Lunar Society, debating the origins of life…

7. Lichfield Cathedral

14.62 MILES

Crowned by three dramatic towers, Lichfield Cathedral is a Gothic fantasy, constructed in stages from 1200 to 1350. The enormous vaulted nave is set…

8. Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum

14.79 MILES

This absorbing museum charts the life of the pioneering lexicographer, wit, poet and critic Samuel Johnson, who moved to London from his native Lichfield…