From its rich history and culture to its unique attractions and landmarks, there's something for everyone in Coventry. But did you know there are some really strange and wonderful facts about the city too? Here are 10 of the weirdest and most fascinating things you might not have known about this great city.

1- The Legend of Lady Godiva

Have you ever heard the story of Lady Godiva? It’s said that in 1040, Lady Godiva rode naked through the streets of Coventry to protest the high taxes imposed by her husband. The legend still lives on today, and there is a large statue dedicated to her in Broadgate. However, this legend is unlikely to be true! 100 years after her death, people started to tell the story that we know today, and it is rumoured that the tale was made up by monks! Regardless, Lady Godiva remains an important symbol.

 

2- The Italian Job Car Scene Was Filmed in Coventry

The classic 1969 film ‘The Italian Job’ features a famous car chase scene which was filmed in Coventry! Although the film is set in Italy, this specific scene (a Mini Cooper being chased by a bus) is actually set on the ring road around Coventry’s city centre. If you watch closely, you can see some of the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Lady Godiva statue, Broadgate and Whitefriars Gate. A commemorative plaque has since been put up on the ring road to mark the spot!

 

3- The Coventry Conspiracy

Coventry suffered heavy bombing throughout The Second World War, and The Coventry Blitz remains one of the most devastating moments in British history. On 14th November 1940, a bombing raid by German planes killed over 500 people and destroyed much of the city centre. Coventry Cathedral was the only English cathedral to be destroyed during WW2. Many people believe that the government had prior knowledge of the attack and allowed it to happen as a sacrifice for the 'greater good'. This conspiracy theory has been debated ever since! Coventry cathedral has since been rebuilt and hosts a Coventry carol service each year.

 

4- Coventry's Car Manufacturing History

Did you know that the first British car was manufactured in Coventry in 1897 by Henry Lawson? He then founded the Daimler Motor Company, and Coventry soon became the centre for car manufacturing in the UK. By the 1950s, Coventry was home to the world's second-largest car-making industry and was the world's leading car exporter! This prosperity continued until the 1970's, when many factories closed.

 

5- Voted City of Culture 2021

In 2021, Coventry was voted to be the UK City of Culture! This honour is given to an area of the UK each year, and Coventry's selection was a surprise for many. The city is already home to many wonderful cultural activities, from outdoor theatre performances and art exhibitions to major music events. However, as part of the award, The Coventry City Council was given £250,000 to support the city's cultural activities and the commissioning of additional co-created cultural projects.

FUN FACT: Did you know that Coventry was previously thought to be the most central city in the UK? The Meridian is a Grade II listed sandstone monument that has been there for over 500 years and marks the 'central spot'. Coventry was once thought to be the country's geographical centre, but more precise methods of measuring have since debunked this!

 

6- George Orwell's Study of Poverty

In 1936, the famous author George Orwell stayed in Coventry, studied poverty, and documented what he saw, from slum housing to children playing in the streets. This was set to be published in 'The Road to Wigan Pier', but he found that the city was flourishing financially, so he chose Wigan instead.

 

7- Coventry Transport Museum

The Coventry Transport Museum is the UK's largest motor and transport museum. It has a collection of over 300 historic vehicles, including cars, buses, bikes and more! The museum also holds special exhibitions throughout the year, such as its popular 'Engineering Legends' exhibition, which celebrates innovation and creativity in engineering. As Coventry was once the home of motor manufacturing, the museum is a great way to explore the city's history and its contribution to the industry.

 

8- Coventry Pioneered Town Twinning

Coventry is one of the first cities in the world to develop a twin-town relationship with another city and is now twinned with 26 cities worldwide! In 1947, this central city formed a partnership with Stalingrad (now Volgograd) in Russia. Partnerships followed this with many other European cities, including Dresden in Germany, Krakow in Poland and Toulouse in France. This initiative was a powerful symbol of peace and reconciliation following World War II, and Coventry remains an active twin-town participant today.

FUN FACT: Did you know that William Shakespeare was said to have jilted a Coventry woman on the eve of their wedding to marry Anne Hathaway?

 

9- Birthplace of the Green Party

The UK's Green party was founded in Coventry back in 1973 after the 'smokeless zone' was introduced in 1948. As a result of this, Coventry was the first city to introduce clean air legislation. The Green party's ideas spread quickly, and it soon gained support from all over the country. Today, the UK is leading in its commitment to fighting climate change and protecting our environment, making Coventry an important birthplace for today's green movement.

 

10- The Birthplace of the Modern Bicycle

James Starley created the first design of the bike in 1885 and revolutionised transport worldwide. It's no surprise that today Coventry is home to several cycling clubs offering routes suitable for all levels of experience. These days, you can also find numerous bike hire companies in Coventry, making exploring the city on two wheels incredibly easy!

We hope his blog has given you a flavour of the rich history, culture and heritage that Coventry offers. From the invention of the modern bicycle to its connection with major car manufacturing companies, Coventry is an interesting city that has made an important contribution to British industry and culture over the years! Whether you are looking for a fun day out with your family or a chance to explore the city's rich history and traditions, Coventry has something for everyone.

 

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

 

Facts About Coventry FAQs:

We've done our best to try and answer some of the most common questions about Coventry below:

 

What is Special about Coventry?

Coventry is a city in the West Midlands of England, with a population of around 336,000. It is well known for its rich industrial heritage and is often referred to as the ‘City of Spires’ due to its many spired churches. Coventry has a long history that dates back to Roman times when it was a settlement known as Canuitum.

In the Middle Ages, Coventry was an important centre of cloth and textile production, which earned it its place in history as a major industrial city. These days, it is home to Coventry United WFC (originally Coventry city ladies) and Coventry City. Both Coventry University and the University of Warwick are also located here, so students travel nationwide for their education. Finally, Coventry hosts various festivals each year, including the Coventry Caribbean festival and the Coventry Jazz Festival.

What Did Coventry Used to be Called?

Coventry originally began as a Saxon village. The name originates from 'Coffantree,' which means the tree belonging to Coffa.

 

Are There Good Places to Stay in Coventry City Centre?

Yes! Coventry city centre is an excellent location as it is close to all of the city’s attractions. Why not visit the Warwick arts centre or the Cathedral of St Mary on your next visit? If you require accommodation, there are a range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, apartments and hostels for visitors to choose from. If you're in the area for work, Rooost can provide business accommodation in the city centre with a range of options to suit any budget. Just let us know your budget, duration and how many people, and we'll find the perfect place for you. Contact us today for more information!

 

Which Famous People are From Coventry?

The patron saint of England, St. George, is rumoured to have been born in Coventry. In addition, Clive Owen and Jordan Bolger were also born in Coventry.