Exploring Coventry's rich history: what to see in Coventry

Ken Walters
written by
Ken Walters
on 16 January 2023
Exploring Coventry's rich history: what to see in Coventry

Coventry is a bustling city filled with a rich, exciting history. From medieval churches to ancient ruins, the attractions are a must-see! In this blog, we'll be taking a look at some of the best places to explore Coventry's past and natural history.

 

1- Coventry Transport Museum

The Coventry Transport Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and for a good reason. Did you know that the first British car was invented here in 1896 by Daimler? After this, the British Motor industry took off, and Coventry was at the forefront! The museum features an incredible collection of vehicles from all eras, giving visitors a unique insight into the history of transport. If you're a fan of cars or just curious about history, this is an essential stop on your next visit!

 

2- Herbert Art Gallery and Museum

Located in the city centre, the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is a great place to explore Coventry's more recent history. Featuring a range of displays from local art and artefacts to archaeological finds and historical documents, this museum will give you an insight into what life was like in Coventry over the past few centuries. The nation's favourite dinosaur Dippy the Diplodocus, will also be making a stop here this year!

 

3- Coventry City Centre

The city centre is a great place to explore the history of Coventry and its many famous landmarks. Don't miss the ruins of St Mary's Guildhall, built in 1344 and one of the oldest buildings in Coventry; it was heavily damaged during bombing raids in the Second World War but still stands proud today. Also, be sure to check out Broadgate, an iconic public space completely redesigned in the 1930s and now full of modern shops, bars and restaurants.

 

4- Midland Air Museum

The Midland Air Museum is a must-see for aviation and military buffs. This museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft from all eras, ranging from vintage WWI planes to modern fighter jets. With the addition of interactive exhibits, historical memorabilia and a stunning garden, this museum offers a great insight into the history of aviation. If you have kids that are interested in planes, it's definitely worth a quick trip. Tickets start at affordable prices, so this day out won't break the bank either!

 

5- Holy Trinity Church

The Holy Trinity Church is another great place to explore Coventry's past. Built in the 1300s, this historical building has survived several wars and remains one of the city's finest examples of 14th-century architecture. Like the cathedral, it was severely damaged by Nazi bombing in 1940 but was later restored and now stands proudly at the heart of Coventry. Take some time to take in the church's beautiful stained glass windows and magnificent stone carvings; it will definitely be a memorable experience!

 

6- Coventry Cathedral

This world-famous heritage site is one the most iconic landmarks in Coventry. The original cathedral was destroyed during WWII, but a new cathedral was built next to it in the 1960s and is now recognised as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. Inside, you can find beautiful murals, sculptures and monuments which tell the story of how this place has changed over time. It's well worth a visit for a truly awe-inspiring time.

 

7-Fargo Village

Fargo Village is a unique shopping and entertainment complex located in the heart of Coventry. It's home to a range of independent shops, cafes, bars and art galleries, but it also has plenty of history. If you're a foodie, you'll love the range of delicious snacks and drinks on offer and the array of street art that adorns the walls. It's a great place to explore Coventry's vibrant culture - so don't miss out!

 

8-War Memorial Park

The War Memorial Park is a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives in WWI and WWII. It features a range of memorials, sculptures and monuments dedicated to the fallen soldiers from Coventry, as well as beautiful flower gardens and walking trails. When exploring Coventry's rich history, this park is one of the most poignant places to visit – take some time to reflect and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

 

9-St. Mary's Guildhall

St Mary's Guildhall is one of the oldest buildings in Coventry and a great place to learn about the city's heritage. Built in 1344, this stunning medieval building was heavily damaged during WW2 but has since been restored to its former glory. Inside, you can find artefacts from throughout the centuries, as well as a range of interactive exhibits and guided tours. It's a great place to bring the family and better understand Coventry's past.

 

10-The Coventry Music Museum

This is an absolute must-visit for any music fans in the city! This museum celebrates the city's vibrant music culture with various interactive exhibits and memorabilia from some of Coventry’s most famous bands and artists. From vintage guitars to rare photos and recordings, it's a great place to explore local music. They also hold a range of events and live performances, so there's plenty to see and do.

So there you have it! Coventry is a vibrant city with plenty of history and culture to explore. Whether you're looking for something educational or just want to have a fun family day out, there's something for everyone in this amazing city. We hope this list of the top 10 attractions in Coventry has given you some ideas for your next trip! Have fun!

 

Related Article: Coventry’s Food Scene: Best Places To Eat In Coventry

 

The Best Things To Do In Coventry FAQs:

We've done our best to try and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about things to do in Coventry below:

 

What are The Top Attractions to Visit in Coventry?

Coventry is a vibrant city filled with various attractions for people of all ages. Some of the most popular Coventry attractions include The Transport Museum, The Herbert Art Gallery, Museum of Music and Coventry Cathedral. If you're planning a visit, these are some great ideas!

 

Is Coventry Worth Visiting?

Yes- Coventry's rich social and industrial history makes it fascinating to visit. Learn about the historic sites damaged in the First World War, or explore the visual arts at a museum. Herbert Art Gallery is one of the most popular museums in Coventry, so this is a must-see! Coventry has something to offer everyone, so it's a great place to visit with family and friends.

 

What Is Coventry Best Known For?

Coventry is best known for being the birthplace of British Vehicles in the 19th century. In addition, bicycles were also invented here too!

 

Are There Many Places to Stay in Coventry?

Yes! Coventry has a wide range of hotels, serviced apartments and hostels to stay in. If you're travelling to Coventry for work and are in need of business accommodation, get in touch with our customer service team today. We'll be able to help you source the right place for your stay, so that you can create a 'home away from home' when travelling.

Fields Required
-
or call to book 01926 298916