Review: The Whittington Arms, Lichfield |  A Gastro Pub Gem

It is a strange thing to have a treasure sitting five minutes from your front door and not realise it. For years, I have driven past The Whittington Arms on the Tamworth Road near Lichfield. I’ve glanced at the building, thought “I really must stop there one day,” and then continued on my way.

Last October, I finally stopped. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner.

What I found was arguably one of the best gastro pubs near Lichfield. It is a venue that perfectly balances a rich history with a hospitality culture that is becoming increasingly rare.

The History

To understand the atmosphere here, you have to look past the modern menus. The structure itself has a story. For the first half of the 20th century, this building served as the clubhouse for the Whittington Heath Golf Club.

Sitting in the dining room, admiring the interiors (which strike a lovely balance between rustic warmth and modern vibrancy), you can almost feel that history. It retains the DNA of a "clubhouse"– a place designed for gathering, for community, and for shaking off the cold. It has that distinctive English architectural weight to it, grounding the experience in something older than just a quick bite to eat.

A Culture of "Impeccable" Hospitality

However, a beautiful building is nothing without the people inside it. In the world of gastronomy, we talk a lot about food, but we often forget that culture starts with service.

The hospitality during my visit was, in a word, impeccable.

It is rare to find service that feels genuine rather than scripted. A huge mention must go to Carly, who looked after us. Her warmth transformed a dinner into an experience, proving that great hospitality is about making guests feel like they are the only people in the room. It’s this human element that turns a dog-friendly pub in Staffordshire into a true "local."

The Menu: Modern British Food

And then, there is the talent in the kitchen. We often use the phrase "made with love" loosely, but here, it is evident on the plate. Credit must be given to Chef Owen, whose preparation was flawless. This isn't just "pub grub"; it is ingredient-led cooking.

• The Starters: We started with the Calamari and Pan-Fried King Prawns. I have had calamari in countless restaurants, but this was comfortably one of the best I have had especially this far inland – tender, perfectly seasoned, and light.
• The Main Event: I opted for the Super Salad with Sea Bass. It is a brave chef who relies on a salad to impress, but the balance of flavors was delectable. Fresh, vibrant, and beautifully plated.
• The Drinks: Even the drinks menu felt curated rather than standard, pairing perfectly with the seafood.

The Happy Bellies Verdict

The Whittington Arms is a testament to how a venue can respect its past while delivering a modern, high-quality experience. It is a place where the history is in the walls, but the heart is in the kitchen and the front-of-house team.

To think I drove past this gem for so long! If you are looking for where to eat near Tamworth or Lichfield, this is the spot. I cannot wait for the next visit.

Practical Details:

• Location: Tamworth Rd, Lichfield WS14 9PS (Near the Staffordshire Regiment Museum).
• Parking: Large free car park on-site.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.
• Good for: Sunday lunch, casual dinner, family gatherings.

About me...I'm Lorna Rose and, by day, I work in the tech industry, but in my heart of hearts, I've always been fascinated by the story that food tells. The magic of a well-cooked meal, the way a simple dish can bring people together, spark conversation, and create lasting memories. On Happy Bellies, I set out to explore and find hidden gems, so that I can indulge in telling stories around food that will make you want to go out and create your own foodie adventures.

Keep reading:

Happy Bellies

Where every meal tells a story.

Happy BelliesLorna Rose