Uncover the captivating history and intriguing legends of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter on this immersive walk. Discover the truth behind Godiva, the Blitz, the Gunpowder Plot, and more!
- Lady Godiva Statue - While you might know about the 1000 year old legend of Lady Godiva, the woman behind the most famous tax protest in history, what do you know about he woman herself?
- Golden Cross - On Pepper Lane outside the Golden Cross your guide will explain the truth about the building which claims to be the oldest pub in Coventry, the literal treasure hunt which the streets are paved with and what sued to happen on those very cobbles.
Nearby, a mural will help explain some of the theories as where the name ‘Coventry’ comes from.
- St. Mary’s Guildhall - See the outside of the Guildhall, a medieval time capsule and the last remaining part of Coventry Castle
- Council House - In front of the gothic council house, hear why Coventry has been a city since the beginning of time!
- Drapers Hall - Outside Drapers Hall, your guide will tell you about the ‘Great Drapery’ and why Coventry became an international trading centre as long ago as the twelfth century
- Holy Trinity Church - Your guide will talk briefly about the history of the 12th century church.
- Coventry Cathedral - See the ruined cathedral church of St Michael as your guide tells the tale of its’ destruction in the ‘Moonlight Sonata’ air raid of Coventry during World War II. You’ll also see Sir Basil Spences modern cathedral, with both structures being monuments to international peace and reconciliation.
Tours normally include a quick look inside the modern cathedral building, with a longer while spend inside the ruins, but on occasion, events take place in the Cathedrals which will mean entry is not possible.
- Priory Visitor Centre - Overlooking the ruins of Coventry’s Original St Mary’s Cathedral, you’ll hear about it’s beginnings with St Osburg, through the time of Godiva and Leofric and when it became a cathedral.
Then downstairs on the floor of what was one of -if not the- richest cathedrals you’ll be told about some of the times when it was this country’s parliament, and of course why, due to Henry VIII, it’s not there any more.
- Guided historical walking tour
Key points of discussion include:
The myth surrounding Godiva, her impact on history, and possible reasons for her diminished historical importance.
The disappearance of St Marys Cathedral during the dissolution of the Monasteries and its profound effect on Coventry.
The Blitz of November 14, 1940, referred to as the Moonlight Sonata, and the real information had by authorities preceding the assault.
The pivotal role intended for Coventry in the Gunpowder Plot.
The heritage of global peace and reconciliation emanating from the demolition and reconstruction of St Michaels Cathedrals.
The six distinct hypotheses explaining the origin of the name ‘Coventry’.
How Coventry has consistently held city status since ‘Time Immemorial’.
The brief existence of Coventry Castle.
The tale of Coventry’s two time capsules, St Marys Guildhall and Drapers Hall.
- The walk is just under a miles and should take two hours and ten minutes. It is mostly flat with some inclines and ramps and several areas of cobbled streets.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
