Out and about
Whether you’re visiting a Christmas market or heading to a festive event, plan ahead and stay aware.
- stay with friends or family, especially at night
- keep valuables close and be cautious in crowds
- use licensed taxis or pre-booked services - view taxi ranks where you can find a licenced taxi
- avoid shortcuts through dark or isolated areas
When drinking alcohol
- stay aware of your surroundings
- don’t leave drinks unattended
- know your limit
- make a plan to get home safely or stay with friends or family
- never drive after drinking - find out more.
When eating out
When you’re planning a Christmas meal out or ordering a festive takeaway, it’s worth checking that the place you choose has a good food hygiene rating.
Every food business in the UK is inspected by their local council and given a rating from 0 to 5 - with 5 meaning “very good” and 0 meaning “urgent improvement required”.
You can check ratings quickly online using the Food Standards Agency food hygiene ratings website
Restaurants, cafés and takeaways are encouraged to display their green and black hygiene sticker on doors or windows - don’t be shy about looking for it before you go in.
High ratings mean that food is handled safely, storage and preparation meet standards, and regular environmental health inspections are passed.
Choosing well-rated places keeps you, your friends and family safe - and rewards local businesses that take food safety seriously.
Useful tools
If you ever feel uneasy, vulnerable or simply want an extra layer of support while out and about, two great national safety tools are available: Ask for Angela and Hollie Guard.
Ask for Angela is a campaign found in bars, clubs and venues across the UK - if you say 'Angela' to trained staff it discreetly signals you need assistance, such as being escorted to a taxi or a friend.
Learn more about Ask for Angela
Hollie Guard is a smartphone app that turns your phone into a personal safety device. With a simple tap or shake it alerts your trusted contacts, shares your location, and can record audio-video evidence.
Visit Hollie Guard
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:
- L’Uomo Menswear Lichfield – premium men’s fashion with impeccable style and personal service.
- Lichfield Garrick Theatre – home to top-quality performances, pantos, and live entertainment for all ages.
- The Boat Restaurant at Wall Island – fine dining and seasonal British dishes in a relaxed, elegant setting.
- The Dirty Cow – serving bold, flavour-packed burgers and indulgent comfort food in the heart of the city.
- The Whippet Inn – a much-loved local spot for great food, craft drinks and their own Whippet Gin.
- The Hub at St Mary’s – an inspiring arts and café space showcasing live music, theatre, and community events.
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.