Discover Coventry’s Treasures: Private Walking Tour
5.0 / 5 · 2 traveler reviews
Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. 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.
Your experience
Stop 1
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.
Stop 2
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.
Stop 3
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.
Stop 4
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.
Stop 5
Surprisingly, we'll dedicate a couple of minutes to the marvel of engineering that is the Coventry Ring Road!
Stop 6
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.
Stop 7
Off the beaten track, explore hidden gems within the city heart that even many locals are unaware of.
Stop 8
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.
Stop 9
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.
Stop 10
Spend some time delving into the building constructed in 1505 by Thomas Bond, still serving its original purpose over 500 years later.
Stop 11
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.
Stop 12
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.
What’s included
- Professional local tour guide
Meeting and pickup
In front of Lady Godiva Statue
Before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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