Coventry Information

Coventry will forever be associated with Lady Godiva, and St George the Dragonslayer. It is indeed a city with an intriguing past, full of legend and myths. And today, that history is combined with modern shops and restaurants, making it a great destination in which to spend some time.

Coventry Cathedral is famous throughout the world. In 1043 Lady Godiva founded the Benedictine Priory of St Mary, which later became the first of three cathedrals to grace the city. Henry VIII ordered it to be pulled down in 1534. The second cathedral was destroyed during the Second World War, and its remains are attached to today's spectacular St Michael's cathedral which was designed by Sir Basil Spence and consecrated in 1962. This is recognised as an international symbol of reconciliation and peace, and is home to art by John Piper, Jacob Epstein and Graham Sutherland.

Watchmaking has played a big part in the city's history. It started in the 1680s, and in the 18th century Coventry became one of the main watchmaking centres in England. However, the second half of the century saw cheaper production methods in the UK, and better quality in Switzerland. The skilled precision engineers then transferred their skills to the motor industry, for which the city is now famous. Coventry has even produced the world's fasted car, Thrusst SSC.

Visit Coventry's Transport Museum to learn all about the UK's road transport history, including speed records to old bikes, a World Land Speed Record simulator, and interactive diplays. And add the Heritage Motor Centre at Gaydon for more automobile history.

Nearby Warwick Castle is Britain's greatest medieval experience, with interactive entertainment, and guides in medieval costumes.
The city's modern shops and restaurants are intermingled with many beautiful parks and historic buildings. Visit the almshouses of Fords and Bonds Hospitals. Stroll in the Priory Gardens, or the Garden of International Friendship.
St Mary's Guildhall is one of the finest medieval guildhalls in England, dating back 650 years. It served as the centre of King Henry VI's court during the Wars of the Roses, and it was here that Mary, Queen of Scots was held prisoner. It is believed that William Shakespeare staged his plays here and writer George Elliot, who knew the hall well, used it in one of her novels. The Godiva Processions started here.
Visit the Herbert Arts, Media and Museum Centre for a fix of culture. And the Midland Air Museum to learn about Coventry's interesting aviation history. Here you can see a unique collection of aircraft and engines, all of which were produced in Coventry. The jet age is detailed in the Sir Frank Whittle Jet Heritage Centre, and the Wings Over Coventry gallery has information about local aviation history.

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