18 Unmissable Things to Do in Coventry (2025): History, Culture & Family Fun -

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LOOKING FOR BEST KID-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO IN COVENTRY?

From our several weekends of exploring every corner of this historic city, I can confidently say there are plenty of things to do in Coventry that will leave you genuinely amazed – be it world-class museums, stunning medieval architecture, peaceful nature reserves and thrilling family attractions, Coventry punches well above its weight.

What makes the city truly special is how it seamlessly blends its rich history with modern attractions. You can walk through 1,000 years of history in the morning, then find yourself at a cutting-edge waterpark in the afternoon.

The city’s phoenix-like rise from wartime devastation has created a unique character that’s both resilient and welcoming. Plus, with Birmingham, Leicester, Warwick, and Leamington Spa all within easy reach, Coventry makes an excellent base for exploring the heart of England.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH OUR FAVOURITE RESOURCES

→ Best Accommodation site: Booking.com
→ Book an Activity or a Day Tour here: Viator.com
→ Compare Bus, Coach & Train Prices here: Omio.com
→ Reserve your Rental Car here: DiscoverCars.com

Whether you’re seeking fun things to do in Coventry for adults, planning things to do in Coventry for families, or hunting for unusual things to do in Coventry, this guide has you covered. I’ve even included plenty of things to do in Coventry for free – because who doesn’t love a bargain?

Quick Look: Top 3 Activities

1: Coventry Cathedral

Explore the striking ruins of the medieval cathedral and the modern masterpiece built alongside it, a powerful symbol of peace and reconciliation.

2: St. Mary’s Guildhall

Step into one of England’s finest medieval guildhalls, with breathtaking stained glass, historic tapestries, and ties to royalty. Book a self guided tour HERE:

3: Warwick Castle

Experience 1,100 years of history at this spectacular fortress, featuring towers, dungeons, and thrilling live shows. Book your discounted tickets HERE:

Coventry Transport Museum

The Coventry Transport Museum houses the largest collection of British-made road transport on the planet, telling the incredible story of how Coventry became the heart of Britain’s motor industry.

Walking through the galleries feels like travelling through time, from penny-farthings to modern supercars, with the legendary Thrust SSC – the world’s fastest car that broke the sound barrier – as the absolute star of the show.

Insider Tip: Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience and ask staff about the hidden workshop tours – they sometimes offer behind-the-scenes glimpses of restoration work not advertised publicly.

What makes this museum special is how interactive it is, with simulators and hands-on exhibits that captivate both petrolheads and complete novices. The museum recently introduced admission charges, but the annual pass system means excellent value for regular visitors.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 4 mins walk from Pool Meadow Bus Station and 7 mins walk from Coventry Railway Station
Admission: Adults £16.50 at door (£15 advance), Concessions £12.50 (£11.50 advance), Children 5-16 £9 (£8 advance), Under 4s free. Go CV cardholders from £3, Go CV+ free
Opening times: 10am-5pm daily (closed Mon), closed 24-26 December and 1 January

Coventry Cathedral

Coventry Cathedral tells one of the most powerful stories of resilience and renewal you’ll find anywhere in Britain.

The ruins of a medieval Gothic cathedral with red sandstone walls, featuring tall arched windows without glass, ornate stonework, and architectural details against a blue sky with white clouds.

The original medieval cathedral was destroyed during the Coventry Blitz in 1940, but rather than simply rebuilding, the city chose to construct a stunning new cathedral alongside the haunting ruins of the old one.

The result is breathtaking – ancient sandstone walls stand as a poignant reminder of the past, while the modern cathedral (completed in 1962) represents hope and renewal.

Local Secret: The best photo opportunity is from the steps of the Herbert Art Gallery looking back towards both cathedrals – this angle captures the powerful contrast between old and new that most visitors miss.

Inside, you’ll find Graham Sutherland’s Christ in Glory, the largest tapestry in the world, and architecture that perfectly balances contemporary design with spiritual atmosphere.

Interior view of a modern cathedral showing a dramatic curved wall filled with hundreds of colorful stained glass windows in blues, reds, yellows, and greens, creating a rainbow effect from floor to ceiling.

A modern red sandstone cathedral with contemporary angular architecture, featuring vertical window slits and a large bronze sculpture of an angel with outstretched wings mounted on the exterior wall.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 5 mins walk from Coventry Railway Station, 3 mins from Pool Meadow Bus Station
Admission: Free
Opening times: 24/7, new cathedral Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12pm-3:30pm

➤ Psst… Looking for a place to stay?

Find all the best Coventry hotels on Booking.com. Easily find, book and enjoy great hotel deals with free cancellation on one easy platform. Our top suggestion – The Coventry Historic Houses, a 16th-century Tudor town house with rave reviews right in the heart of town!

War Memorial Park

War Memorial Park is Coventry’s green lung and one of the most beautiful spaces in the city. This 48-hectare park was created as a living memorial to those who died in World War I, and it’s evolved into a fantastic recreational space that locals absolutely adore.

A tall Art Deco memorial tower made of white stone rises from a circular stepped base, surrounded by bare winter trees against a partly cloudy sky.

The park combines formal gardens, sports facilities, an excellent children’s play area, and plenty of open space for picnics and games. The memorial itself is deeply moving, while the park’s peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for both active recreation and quiet reflection.

Smart Planning: The car park fills up quickly on sunny weekends, but there’s usually space on Kenilworth Road (free 2-hour parking) just a 3-minute walk from the main entrance.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 10 mins by bus from city centre (routes 11, 11A), or 15 mins walk from Canley Railway Station
Admission: Free
Opening times: 24/7, car parks open dawn to dusk

→ You may also like: Black Country Slang: [A Yam Yam’s Guide]

Herbert Art Gallery and Museum

The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is Coventry’s cultural crown jewel, combining art, history, and culture in an award-winning Victorian building.

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in Coventry, featuring a contemporary exterior with large glass panels and neutral-toned walls. Bold, modern lettering displays 'DI.PPY COVENTRY' near the entrance, alongside the museum’s full name. The design emphasizes accessibility and cultural engagement, with visitors visible in the spacious forecourt.

The collections span everything from fine art to social history, with the excellent Godiva City exhibition separating fact from fiction in Lady Godiva’s legendary tale.

What makes the Herbert special is how it connects Coventry’s past to its present, with inspiring exhibits about the city’s transformation after the war and impressive collections of both historical and contemporary art.

Get discounted tickets when you book in advance here, to learn all about Coventry’s story, social, and industrial history.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 2 mins walk from Pool Meadow Bus Station, 8 mins from Coventry Railway Station
Admission: Adults £6 (£4.50 when booked in advance online HERE), children free
Opening times: Tue-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12pm-4pm (closed Mon)

→ Related: Free Maps of Coventry [PDF Downloads]

St. Mary’s Guildhall

If you’re exploring things to do in Coventry city centre, don’t miss the medieval grandeur of St. Mary’s Guildhall – one of the finest medieval guildhalls in the country, where stepping inside feels like travelling back 600 years.

Historic streetscape showing the juxtaposition of a large Gothic cathedral or church with red sandstone walls and large arched windows alongside Tudor-style timber-framed buildings with black beams and white panels. The scene includes a cobbled street and demonstrates the layered architectural history of an English city center.

Historic cobblestone street scene showing a large Gothic cathedral or church with red sandstone walls and a deep arched entrance on the left. Adjacent Tudor-style buildings with timber framing and white walls line the narrow street. The cobblestone road curves gently, and a Guild Hall or similar historic building sign is visible on the cathedral wall. The scene captures the layered architectural heritage of a medieval English city center under a partly cloudy sky.

This magnificent building has witnessed incredible moments in British history – Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned here, and Shakespeare himself may have performed in the spectacular Great Hall.

Hidden Gem: Ask the volunteer guides about the secret priest holes and hidden passages – these aren’t marked on the standard route but add fascinating depth to your visit.

The Great Hall features a soaring timber roof and beautiful stained glass windows, while the world-class tapestry collection and stunning architecture tell stories of medieval craftsmanship, royal visits, and political intrigue.

We recommend booking this self-guided audio tour of St. Mary’s Guildhall for a deep dive into 700-years of Coventry’s incredible history and heritage.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 3 mins walk from Pool Meadow Bus Station, 5 mins from Coventry Railway Station
Admission: Free
Opening times: Wed-Sun 10am-4pm (closed Mon-Tue)

The Coventry Music Museum

For unusual things to do in Coventry, visit the Coventry Music Museum to dive into the city’s ska legacy. This unique museum celebrates the city’s incredible musical heritage in a beautiful Victorian building.

Interior of a record shop with spinning racks of vinyl records in the foreground and shelves of albums lining the walls. The shop has a black and white checkered floor, vertical blinds on the windows, and displays music memorabilia including framed photographs and a Union Jack flag.

The 2 Tone exhibit is the absolute highlight – Coventry was the birthplace of the ska revival movement, and the museum brilliantly explains how bands like The Specials changed British music forever.

You can listen to rare recordings, see original instruments, and learn about the cultural impact of this uniquely Coventry sound. The passionate staff are genuine music enthusiasts who love sharing stories, and the museum hosts regular events and gigs.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 4 mins walk from Pool Meadow Bus Station, 6 mins from Coventry Railway Station
Admission: Adults £6, Children £3, Under 5s free. Get a discount o your tickets when you book online HERE:
Opening times: Thu-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 11am-3pm (closed Mon-Wed)

➤ What’s the best way to get around Coventry?

Driving around Coventry is the best option as many of the top attractions like Warwick Castle, Midland Air Museum and Kenilworth Castle are a short drive out of town, and there are loads of affordable parking spots in and around the city. We recommend renting a car from DiscoveryCars for its transparent and genuine reviews.
While not as flexible or as quick, public transport is a cheaper option – compare prices on Omio for booking the bus and trains.

Midland Air Museum

The Midland Air Museum at Coventry Airport brings aviation history to life with an incredible collection of aircraft from World War II fighters to Cold War jets.

A military jet aircraft with the number "004" and Royal Navy markings is displayed on grass outside blue aircraft hangars, with protective covers visible on nearby equipment.

The volunteer-run museum’s enthusiastic staff make every visit special, sharing their passion for aviation with infectious enthusiasm.

The star attraction is the massive Vulcan bomber – seeing one of these Cold War giants up close is genuinely awe-inspiring. Unlike many aviation museums, here you can often climb into cockpits and really explore the aircraft, making it one of the most hands-on aviation experiences you’ll find.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 15 mins drive from city centre, or bus route 11 to Baginton village then 10 mins walk
Admission: Adults £8, Concessions £6, Children £4, Under 5s free
Opening times: daily 10am-5pm

→ Further reading: A Guide to Market Towns in Shropshire

Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden

Just a short drive from Coventry city centre, Kenilworth Castle is one of the most romantic ruins in England. This isn’t just ancient stones – it’s where history comes alive with 900 years of stories including medieval sieges, royal romances, and Robert Dudley’s spectacular attempt to woo Queen Elizabeth I.

The ruins of a medieval castle or abbey showing extensive stone remains under a blue sky with white clouds. The structure features a prominent square tower on the left with visible window openings, and the remains of what appears to be a great hall or church with two large Gothic arched openings in the center. The red sandstone walls show various levels of preservation, with some areas reduced to foundation level while others retain significant height. Modern concrete pathways wind through the ruins for visitor access. Green lawns and trees are visible in the background, and the site appears to be a well-maintained heritage attraction with organized walkways throughout the archaeological remains.

Dudley transformed the medieval fortress into a Renaissance palace, creating some of Tudor England’s most spectacular gardens. The recreation of these Elizabethan gardens using historical records is absolutely stunning, while the castle ruins and Great Hall give you a real sense of former grandeur.

Get discounted tickets from £14 when you book in advance HERE (You can also save £20 when you buy a family ticket online)

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 6 miles from Coventry city centre (15 mins drive), or bus route 18 from Pool Meadow
Admission: Adults £18.50, (£14 when booked online) Children £11.10, Under 5s free (English Heritage members free).
Opening times: Daily 10am-5pm (Apr-Sep), 10am-4pm (Oct-Mar), closed 24-26 Dec

✪ Invest in an English Heritage Membership Pass to Save Yet More!

Another way to save yourself and your family hundreds of pounds, the English Heritage Membership Pass gives an adult – and up to six children per adult – free entry to ANY English Heritage in the country! Just a few trips (eg. the Ironbridge Gorge museums and Witley Manor) quickly pays for itself.

I wrote a detailed article about the West Midlands top 10 English Heritage Sites here, that includes pricing breakdown and all the benefits you get from it.

→ Get Your English Heritage Membership Pass HERE ←

Coombe Abbey Country Park

Coombe Abbey Country Park is 500 acres of absolute perfection – a medieval abbey turned country house surrounded by beautiful parkland with formal gardens, ancient woodlands, and peaceful lakes.

Tudor-style college courtyard with ivy-covered stone buildings featuring bay windows and dormers. A formal garden in the center has a fountain surrounded by orange and yellow flowers within neatly trimmed hedges.

Walking trails cater to all abilities, while the children’s adventure playground and picnic areas make it perfect for families.

The park combines natural beauty with 800 years of history, from fascinating abbey ruins to stunning gardens showcasing plants from around the world. In spring, the bluebell woods are absolutely magical, creating one of the most photographed spots in Warwickshire.

Photography Tip: The best light for photographing the abbey ruins is during the golden hour (one hour before sunset), when the sandstone glows beautifully against the surrounding parkland.

Even better, Coombe Abbey has the perfect outdoor adventure attraction: Go Ape, packed with the following activities:

➤ High Ropes Treetop Challenge
➤ Axe-Throwing
➤ Freefall Plummet & Obstacle Course
➤ Mini Land Rovers

Plus many more! Grab your tickets HERE to enjoy one of the Midlands’ best attractions right here at Coombe Abbey Park.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 5 miles east of Coventry city centre (15 mins drive), limited public transport
Admission: Free, car parking £4 per day. Buy your Go Ape tickets HERE
Opening times: Open daily dawn to dusk, visitor centre 10am-4pm

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The Belgrade Theatre

The Belgrade Theatre has been at the heart of Coventry’s arts scene since 1958 as Britain’s first purpose-built civic theatre.

Exterior of Belgrade Theatre, a modern brick building with large glass windows. Red banners with white dove logos hang from barriers in front of the building. A Belgrade Cafe sign is visible on the ground floor.

The intimate venue continues to punch above its weight with an incredible programme of drama, comedy, musicals, and dance that attracts top-quality productions and performers.

The theatre’s commitment to local talent is impressive, regularly showcasing work by Midlands-based writers and performers while their youth theatre programme has launched many careers. With excellent acoustics and no bad seats in the house, it’s perfect for any theatre lover.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 2 mins walk from Pool Meadow Bus Station, 8 mins from the train station
Admission: Varies by show (typically £15-35), student and group discounts available
Opening times: Box office Mon-Sat 10am-8pm, performance days vary

Lady Godiva Statue and the Town Centre

The statue of Lady Godiva beautifully captures the legend of the 11th century noblewoman who rode through Coventry to protest harsh taxation, though historians debate what actually happened versus the popular legend.

Bronze equestrian statue on a stone pedestal in front of a modern brick shopping center. The statue shows a figure on horseback. Shops including Five Guys are visible in the background, with British bunting hanging from the building.

The regenerated city centre around the statue features excellent shopping from high street brands to independent boutiques, plus plenty of cafés and restaurants. The pedestrianised areas are perfect for leisurely strolls, and street performers often provide entertainment.

We recommend the Godiva’s Cathedral Quarter walking tour, which takes you deep into Coventry’s rich and fascinating history exploring how it has been a city forever, the legend of Godiva, short-lived history of Coventry Castle, the part Coventry was meant to play in the Gunpowder Plot, and much more!

Location: (Google Maps)
Admission: Free
Opening times: Shops typically 9am-5:30pm Mon-Sat, 11am-5pm Sun

→ See also: Maps of Warwickshire (Free PDFs)

Fords Hospital Alms House

Fords Hospital is one of Coventry’s best-kept secrets – a stunning Tudor timber-framed building from 1529 that most visitors walk past without realising what they’re missing. Built as almshouses for elderly people, it’s still used for the same purpose today, making it a living piece of history.

Historic Tudor-style timber-framed building with distinctive black wooden beams and white infill panels. The multi-gabled structure features diamond-paned windows and ornate carved details. Text is visible on a beam across the facade, and the building sits on a paved area with stone walls nearby.

Interior courtyard or gallery of a Tudor building showing a long covered walkway with timber-framed construction. The space has a stone-flagged floor, wooden railings along both sides, and Tudor-style architecture with exposed beams overhead. Diamond-paned windows line the walls and text appears to be inscribed on some of the wooden surfaces.

The architecture is absolutely gorgeous – one of the finest examples of Tudor building in the Midlands. The Great Hall features a soaring timber roof and beautiful stained glass, while the peaceful courtyard garden provides a tranquil escape from the busy city centre.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 3 mins walk from Pool Meadow Bus Station, 6 mins from Coventry Railway Station
Admission: Free (guided tours by appointment)
Opening times: Limited opening – contact in advance for tours, courtyard visible from street

→ Further reading: The Most Charming Villages in The Cotswolds (Guide)

Go Kids Play Coventry

Go Kids Play is an absolute godsend for families with young children – 15,000 square feet of indoor adventure playground with climbing frames, slides, soft play areas, and interactive games.

The facility is cleverly divided into different zones for different age groups, so toddlers can play safely while older kids tackle more challenging obstacles.

Parents love the excellent sight lines that let you relax with a coffee while keeping an eye on the kids. The café serves decent food and drinks, with plenty of party rooms available for special occasions.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 10 mins drive from city centre, bus routes 10/10A from Pool Meadow
Admission: Peak £8.95 per child, off-peak £7.95, adults free, under 12 months free
Opening times: Sat-Sun 10am-5:30pm (closed weekdays)

FarGo Village

FarGo Village is Coventry’s creative quarter – a vibrant community of independent shops, studios, cafés, and creative spaces housed in beautifully converted Victorian buildings.

A large colorful street mural reading "Welcome to Coventry" with whimsical illustrations including a castle, trees, and cartoon characters, with two people posing in front of it on a cobblestone street.

The shops are genuinely unique, featuring everything from vintage clothing and handmade crafts to specialist books and artisan food.

Local Knowledge: Many shops offer “FarGo discounts” if you visit multiple businesses in one trip – ask at your first purchase about loyalty stamps or multi-shop deals.

This isn’t just a shopping centre – it’s where creative people come together to work, collaborate, and showcase their talents. The independent cafés and restaurants are excellent, while regular events including art exhibitions, live music, and food festivals make it perfect for weekend visits.

Interior of a Victorian-era covered market or shopping arcade with a glass roof, green iron columns, pendant lighting, and various retail stalls selling vintage clothing, crafts, and local goods displayed on wooden tables.

Street art scene showing a large realistic gorilla mural in black and gray with pink accents painted on a building wall, with various graffiti pieces and urban art elements in an alley setting.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 8 mins walk from Pool Meadow Bus Station, 12 mins from Coventry Railway Station
Admission: Free entry to village, individual shop/café prices vary
Opening times: Most shops 10am-5pm Tue-Sat, cafés/restaurants vary, check website for events

Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve

Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve is a wildlife haven just outside Coventry, managed by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust across 220 acres.

A natural wetland area with shallow pools of water surrounded by tall reeds and grasses, with bare trees visible in the background under an overcast sky.

The reserve provides sanctuary for hundreds of species including kingfishers, bitterns, and numerous waterfowl, with several different habitats from reed beds and pools to woodland and grassland.

Wildlife Watching: The early morning hide nearest the car park (Reed Hide) offers the best chance of spotting kingfishers – they’re most active in the first two hours after sunrise.

The well-maintained paths and hides make it accessible for all ages and abilities, while the bird watching opportunities are exceptional. The photography possibilities are incredible, especially in early morning light when wildlife is most active.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 6 miles south of Coventry city centre, limited public transport – best accessed by car
Admission: Free
Opening times: Daily dawn to dusk, visitor centre 9:30am-4:30pm

Ryton Pools Nature Reserve

A serene 40-acre reserve near Coventry, featuring reclaimed gravel pits turned into pools and woodlands. Ryton Pools Country park is rich in wildlife, it attracts kingfishers, herons, and waterfowl across diverse habitats.

A wooden gate and fence border a country path leading into dense woodland, with an information board visible and a car parked nearby.

The circular 45-minute walk suits all abilities, with spring bluebells adorning the woodland. Family-friendly trails, hides, and activity sheets make wildlife spotting engaging for kids.

Easy access with free parking, picnic areas, and pushchair-friendly paths. Winter brings duck flocks, while spring and summer offer kingfisher sightings—the reserve’s star attraction.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 4 miles southeast of city centre, limited public transport
Admission: Free
Opening times: Open daily dawn to dusk

Are there any good places to stay in Coventry?

Here are my best budget, mid-range and luxury recommendations:

◉ The Ramada Hotel & Suites (Double room) £ – Very Good 8.2☆ – very affordable, highly-rated and conveniently located in the heart of the city.

◉ Hotel Indigo Coventry (1-Bed Suite) – ££ Superb 9.2☆ – a stunning 4-star hotel centrally located, perfect for couples and families

The Wave Waterpark

A top Midlands water park with pools, surf-style waves every 30 minutes, and thrilling slides for all ages, The Wave Coventry is more than a pool – it’s a full aquatic adventure.

An indoor water park features colorful spiral water slides in yellow, green, and other bright colors suspended above a circular swimming pool where people are enjoying the water.

The 25m lane pool caters to swimmers, while the wave pool and slides range from gentle to adrenaline-pumping. Perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Money-Saving Hack: Book online at least 24 hours in advance for significant discounts, and avoid peak times (weekends/school holidays) when prices can be 30% higher.

Thoughtful design includes clear sightlines, spacious changing rooms, and an affordable café. Book online for discounts and avoid peak crowds.

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 15 mins drive from city centre, bus routes available
Admission: Peak £8.50 adults, £6.50 children, off-peak rates available
Opening times: Mon-Fri 6:30am-10pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm

Warwick Castle

Just 20 minutes from Coventry, this stunning medieval castle boasts 1,100 years of history. Perched dramatically above the River Avon, it features grand halls, towers, and dungeons to explore.

Warwick Castle makes the perfect family day trip – the castle blends authentic history with modern thrills where you can climb towers for panoramic views, watch birds of prey displays, stroll through beautiful gardens with roaming peacocks, and explore the Horrible Histories maze, one of the top outdoor mazes in the Midlands.

→ Book Your Warwick Castle Tickets HERE ←

Year-round events include knight tournaments, outdoor hedge mazes and Christmas magic. While pricey, we reckon the experience justifies the cost, but best of all, you can get a discount on your tickets (£22 down from £39), when you book in advance HERE:

Location: (Google Maps)
How to get there: 20 mins drive from Coventry, regular bus services available
Admission: Adults £39 (£22 when booked online), Children from £20, Under 3s free (prices vary by season)
Opening times: Daily 10am-5pm (Apr-Sep), 10am-4pm (Oct-Mar), closed 25 Dec

✪ Get Your Shakespeares England Explorer Pass to Save More Money!

The Shakespeares England Explorer Pass gives you free access to 15 of the top things to do in Warwickshire, including Warwick Castle, Kenilworth Castle and others like the Butterfly Farm, Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and more!

Passes start from £49 for 1 Day Pass, with the choice of 1, 2 or 3-Day Passes. Visiting just 2-3 locations will save you more than an individual ticket!

→ Get Your Shakespeare’s England Pass HERE ←

Parks with Play Areas in Coventry

✪ War Memorial Park – modern, challenging playground equipment suitable for all ages
✪ Coombe Abbey Country Park – adventure playground with zip lines and climbing equipment in stunning parkland setting
✪ Caludon Castle Park – well-maintained facilities popular with local families, plenty of parking
✪ Allesley Park – combines historical hall and gardens with modern play facilities
✪ Ryton Pools Country Park – small play area plus wildlife watching and open spaces for games

→ Read more: Black Country Slang: [A Yam Yam’s Guide]

What’s on in Coventry each month

Coventry’s events calendar offers something special throughout the year. While in the area, consider day trips for things to do in Warwick (like the castle) or the plethora of things to do in Birmingham, just 20 minutes away by train.

Spring/Summer Events:

✪ Coventry Music Festival (May) – showcasing local and national talent
✪ Heritage Open Days (September) – free access to normally private historic buildings
✪ Cathedral summer concerts and exhibitions taking advantage of longer days

Festivals in Coventry:

✪ Godiva Festival (July) – free three-day music festival attracting 100,000 visitors
✪ Coventry Jazz Festival – celebrating the city’s musical diversity across multiple venues
✪ Regular FarGo Village markets, art exhibitions, and live music events

Winter Celebrations:

✪ Christmas markets transforming the city centre into a winter wonderland
✪ Belgrade Theatre’s annual pantomime – a beloved local tradition
✪ Cathedral candlelit services and carol concerts

Free things to do in Coventry for Families

For things to do in Coventry for free, the cathedral ruins, War Memorial Park, and Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve offer unforgettable experiences without spending a penny.

Museums and Culture:

✪ Cathedral ruins and architecture tours
✪ Fords Alms Hospital (by appointment only)
✪ St. Mary’s Guildhall medieval history experience

Outdoor Activities:

✪ War Memorial Park playground, formal gardens, and picnic areas
✪ Brandon Marsh and Ryton Pools nature trails and wildlife watching
✪ City centre street performers and buskers during school holidays
✪ Historic church visits including architecturally significant buildings

Top Restaurants in Coventry

The city’s dining scene has flourished with excellent options for every taste and budget:

★ Turmeric Gold – authentic Indian cuisine with bold flavours and excellent service
★ Smokin’ Hot Buffet & Grill – incredible world buffet with fresh Asian and British dishes. Read our review of Smokin’ Hot Buffet here.
★ The Greyhound Inn – award-winning gastropub serving seasonal modern British cuisine
★ Arco Bar and Ristorante – family-friendly Italian with wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta

For a complete dining guide including hidden gems and local favourites, here’s our 12 Best Places to Eat in Coventry

How do I spend a day in Coventry?

Start at Coventry Cathedral for inspiration and historical context, then explore the Transport Museum’s incredible collection (2-3 hours). Lunch around Lady Godiva statue in the city centre, followed by either Herbert Art Gallery or Coombe Abbey Country Park for outdoor relaxation.
With children, substitute The Wave waterpark or Go Kids Play. Evening options include dinner at excellent local restaurants and a Belgrade Theatre show, or explore FarGo Village’s vibrant atmosphere.

Is Coventry worth visiting?

Absolutely! Coventry offers world-class attractions without tourist crowds, genuine local culture, and excellent value for money. The variety spans moving historical sites to cutting-edge attractions, peaceful nature reserves to vibrant cultural quarters – many completely free.
The city’s central location makes it perfect for exploring Birmingham, Leicester, Warwick, and Leamington Spa, creating an ideal Midlands adventure base.

What is Coventry best known for?

Coventry’s fame rests on three pillars: Lady Godiva’s legendary 11th-century ride, its industrial heritage as Britain’s bicycle, motorcycle, and car manufacturing heart (Jaguar, Triumph, Coventry Climax), and its remarkable post-Blitz renewal symbolised by the new cathedral built alongside the old ruins – representing hope, resilience, and reconciliation that continues defining the city today.