Out shopping
Busy high streets and shopping centres can be a target for pickpockets and opportunists.
- keep bags closed and zipped at all times
- consider using a cross body bag
- don’t leave handbags or shopping bags unattended
- avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- keep wallets in front or inside coat pockets
- don't leave presents, handbags or other shopping in view in your car when parked
- visit our stop car theft resources for more great hints and tips on how to keep your car safe both out and about and at home
Online shopping also increases during Christmas. Make sure to:
- shop only on secure and trusted websites - if you are shown a website through Facebook or other social media channel - before choosing to buy, go to a new web browser and search the company up on review sites such as Trust Pilot and read the comments about the company, its customer service and its approach. Also search for the company direct, vs going to their website through sites like Facebook
- avoid deals that seem too good to be true
- never share personal or banking details unless you’re sure the site is genuine
Think local this Christmas
Shopping, eating and entertaining locally is one of the best ways to share the festive spirit and support our communities. Every pound spent in a local shop, café or market helps keep money circulating within the area - supporting local jobs, independent traders, and the character of our high streets.
Lichfield District is bursting with fantastic places to shop, eat, and enjoy over the festive season. In Lichfield city centre, explore a mix of independent boutiques and award-winning venues, including:
- The Whippet Inn – a welcoming independent micropub specialising in real ales, ciders and craft beers from independent breweries. 21 Tamworth Street, Lichfield, WS13 6JP. Visit The Whippet Inn
- Lichfield Garrick Theatre – Lichfield’s theatre and community venue, bringing theatre, music, comedy, family entertainment and more to the city. Castle Dyke, Lichfield, WS13 6HR. Visit Lichfield Garrick Theatre
- National Remembrance Gardens – the UK’s year-round place to remember, set within 150 acres and home to more than 400 memorials. Croxall Road, Alrewas, Staffordshire, DE13 7AR. Visit the Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens
- Mangia Mangia – a family-run Italian deli celebrating authentic Italian food, seasonal ingredients and regional recipes. 25 Tamworth Street, Lichfield, WS13 6FL. Visit Mangia Mangia
- The Fabric Vault – a family-run independent fabric and haberdashery shop offering fabrics, sewing supplies, lessons and creative workshops. Tudor Row, Lichfield. Visit The Fabric Vault
- Beerbohm – Lichfield’s Belgian beer bar, with Belgian and continental beers alongside local ales, wines, spirits and cocktails. 19 Tamworth Street, Lichfield, WS13 6JP. Visit Beerbohm
Across the wider district, discover unique shopping and dining in Burntwood, Sankeys Corner, and Shenstone Village. Don’t miss Heart of the Country for artisan shops, local produce and festive finds, or make a stop at The Boat Inn at Wall Island for exceptional seasonal dining.
Every time you choose to shop, eat or experience something locally, you’re helping to strengthen our economy, support local jobs, and keep our towns thriving for everyone. For inspiration, event listings and a full guide to the best places to explore this festive season, visit Visit Lichfield.