Coventry is a city with a thousand years of history that has plenty to offer the visiting tourist. Located in the heart of Warwickshire, which is well-known as Shakespeare’s county, there are easy transport links to historic Warwick, Rugby and Stratford-upon-Avon. Additionally, there are many things to see and do in and around Coventry itself.
The city has many places of interest to the visitor. Coventry is renowned as a religious center with many important churches within its locale. The city also has many beautiful gardens that will fascinate those nature nature lovers amongst you. Similarly, a number of museums are also on hand to enable visitors to explore the city’s diverse history. Here are just a few of the attractions:
The medieval city wall. Today, two of the twelve original gates are still standing, the Priory gate and the Tower gate. Sections of the city wall itself also survive, with the best-preserved section located within Lady Herbert’s Garden, which is also open to the public. The old cathedral ruins. German bombs destroyed the original cathedral; however, these are some of the most picturesque ruins you’ll see, and include the original stained-glass windows that have remained intact, and the famous “Charred Cross”. The new cathedral. This is a masterpiece of modern, innovative architecture and has to be seen to be believed. A centerpiece is the 72-foot tapestry of Christ. Coventry Canal Basin. Restored from the original 19th century wharf, this remains a popular tourist attraction, complimented by city centre shops and the impressive canal-side ‘art trail’.
If you’re looking for things to do, then why not visit Coventry city centre? You’ll find it easy to get to and parking won’t be a problem, with over 7500 spaces. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find plenty of activities, as well as places to shop and eat, and more. Here are a few examples of places to visit: Shopping centres.
A visit to Coventry would be incomplete without a trip to one of the big shopping centres in the city; take your choice from West Orchards, Cathedral Lanes and Lower Precinct, all housing the biggest retailers with the best deals. Alternatively, try visiting the independent stores found in the City Arcade and on Hertford Street; here you’ll find fresh and exotic foods amongst other things. Coventry City Farm. An inner city farm that promotes the care of animals, with plenty to see and do. Millennium Place.
Visit here and you’ll witness many public works of art, by international artists and designers. Priory Visitor Centre. Unleash your interest in the past and find out the story of the cathedral built by Lady Godiva! Also view the many archaeological finds on display here. St Mary’s Guildhall. Take a trip to this historic building in which Mary, Queen of Scots was once imprisoned. Of course, you’re going to build up an appetite by doing all of these things, so you’ll be pleased to hear that eating out in Coventry is also something of an experience.
