Lichfield artist collaborates with local historian to launch new ale trail

A new ale trail celebrating Lichfield’s rich heritage and vibrant pub culture has been launched through a collaboration between local artist, Jackie Roberts and historian Jono Oates.

Jackie, founder of Love2dream and a member of the Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce, partnered with Jono to help bring his idea to life.

The initiative showcases 16 of Lichfield’s pubs, many of which are located in historic buildings across the city.

Jono is a well-known figure in Lichfield and a regular in many of the pubs.

He combined his passion for the historic city with his love of pubs to launch the trail and to produce the maps, which he funded himself.

The ale trail map features Jackie’s distinctive black and white line drawings, including illustrations of each pub as well as Lichfield Cathedral.

Jackie said: “I was so excited when Jono approached me to ask if he could use my drawings of the pubs on his ale trail map.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to showcase my drawings to locals, as well as visitors exploring the city.”

The trail is divided into two routes - the Garrick Trail and the Johnson Trail - each highlighting eight pubs and guiding participants through different areas of Lichfield.

Printed maps are available free of charge at all participating venues and Jono is also offering guided tours around the trail where he will expand on the fascinating history of Lichfield’s pubs.

To mark the launch, Jackie has created a drawing featuring all 16 pubs.

Prints of this have been presented to each publican, with many displaying them on the wall of their pub.

The artwork is also available to purchase via Jackie’s website.

The ale trail aims to encourage residents and visitors to explore Lichfield’s historic streets, enjoy its unique architecture and support local businesses, providing a boost to the city’s hospitality sector.

Jackie is well known locally for her detailed line drawings, which are sold in ‘The Little Shop’ at fellow Chamber member The Hub at St Mary’s.

She also created the illustrated viewing boards at the top of St Mary’s Tower, installed when the tower re-opened to the public last year.

Pictured: Jono and Jackie