Discover Coventry’s Treasures: Private Walking Tour
Explore the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Coventry on a private walking tour. Your journey begins at the iconic Lady Godiva Statue in Broadgate, a symbol of Coventry’s post-war transformation. Over the course of this guided exploration, you’ll visit Coventry’s hidden gems, discover the birth of the bicycle industry at Lady Herbert’s Garden, and hear the tale of the Coventry City Wall’s preservation. Delve into the city’s rich motor industry heritage at Millennium Place and learn about its enduring landmarks, such as Greyfriars Spire. Coventry’s legacy of famous plays, historical markets, and extraordinary architecture will unfold as you meander through this dynamic city.
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1
Lady Godiva Statue
We commence our journey at Broadgate by Lady Godiva's Statue, situated at the heart of Coventry's 'City of Tomorrow,' as designed by Donald Gibson during the post-war reconstruction of the city.
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2
New Buildings
Next to the last remaining former ribbon weaving factory in the City Centre, you'll learn about the ascent and decline of this industry, all while standing beside the original Coventry Cathedral's surviving wall, St Mary's.
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3
Sir Frank Whittle statue
Near the statue of Sir Frank Whittle, an engineer and RAF officer born in Earlsdon, discover the fascinating story of the inventor of the jet engine.
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4
Lady Herbert's Garden
Explore Lady Herbert's Garden, where you'll unravel the history of the bicycle industry's birth and the development of the modern bike. Turn around to witness the best-preserved section of the Coventry City Wall's intriguing history, saved from destruction by industrialist Alfred Herbert.
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5
A4053
Surprisingly, we'll dedicate a couple of minutes to the marvel of engineering that is the Coventry Ring Road!
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6
Millennium Place
Adjacent to the Coventry Transport Museum, dive into the story of Coventry's motor industry, how it earned the title of the motor city of England, its global car manufacturing status, and how it almost vanished forever.
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7
Palmer Lane
Off the beaten track, explore hidden gems within the city heart that even many locals are unaware of.
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8
Old Grammar School
On a single street corner, spot the building known as the Old Grammar School, an artwork celebrating Coventry's motor industry, and the structure named after the city's most renowned poet.
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9
Belgrade Theatre
As we circle the exterior of the Belgrade Theatre, discover the theatre's history, Coventry's legacy of famous plays, Ira Aldridge as the first Black man to play Othello 200 years after its creation, and the three most influential women in the city's arts history.
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10
Bond's Hospital
Spend some time delving into the building constructed in 1505 by Thomas Bond, still serving its original purpose over 500 years later.
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11
The Parish Church of St John the Baptist
Outside this church, initially constructed as a private place of worship for the city's wealthiest, your guide will explain why it's associated with the phrase 'Sent to Coventry.
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12
Historic Spon Street
Within and around Spon Street, we'll delve deeper into industries like dyeing, tanning, watchmaking, and bicycles. Learn about the street's centuries-long status as one of the major roads in the country and uncover some of the area's hidden histories.
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13
Coventry Market Shopping Centre
The Coventry Market Shopping Centre is a bustling and diverse shopping destination situated in the heart of Coventry, United Kingdom
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14
Bull Yard
In The Bull Yard and Shelton Square, discover more about the 'City of Tomorrow' and the stories behind eclectic public artworks in the area, while also learning about the area's historical significance.
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15
Cheylesmore Manor House
Pass by a 700-year-old Royal Palace hidden in the heart of the city. Hear intriguing stories about its heritage.
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16
New Union Street
Hear the incredible tale of Coventry's enduring landmark, Greyfriars Spire.
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17
Fords Hospital
Fords Hospital, also known as Ford's Almshouses, is a historic charitable institution located in Coventry, United Kingdom. Founded in the early 16th century by William Ford, a wealthy merchant, it was designed to provide housing and support for elderly residents in need.
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18
Hertford Street
Hertford Street is a notable thoroughfare located in the city center of Coventry, United Kingdom. This street is known for its commercial and cultural significance, featuring various shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.