Lichfield City Arms
When: 9th September 2017, from 10am
Where: Starts at Lichfield Guildhall
£: Free to watch
What is it?
Every year, an old boundary marking custom is carried out in Lichfield, Staffordshire, with the ceremonial Sheriff and a party of riders from the local area. This year, The Sheriff’s Ride will take place on Saturday 9th September, starting from the Guildhall, before making a 20 mile journey around the outskirts of the city.
This historic event dates back to Queen Mary’s Charter of 1553, and riders still make a traditional circuit of the bounds of the city on horseback, led by the Sheriff of Lichfield. There are usually around 100 smartly turned-out horsemen and women who accompany the Sheriff, and the officials of the party can be seen gathering outside the Guildhall at 10am. There is a toast to the ride before the riders set off towards Curborough Hall Farm, Darnford Park and Freeford Estate.
In the afternoon, near to the end of the ride, Sword and Mace Bearers join the procession. The procession finishes back at the Guildhall at around 6.30pm.
More info: www.lichfield.gov.uk