Things to do in Coventry

Start at the cathedral quarter

Most first visits begin at the cathedral. The ruins of St Michael's are open to wander through, and the new cathedral next door is known for its huge Graham Sutherland tapestry and Jacob Epstein's bronze of St Michael on the outside wall. Entry is free; the cathedral relies on donations to keep both buildings open.

A few steps away, the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum covers Coventry's art, social history and changing exhibitions, and makes a good wet-weather stop.

Cars, bikes and record breakers

Coventry Transport Museum, near Millennium Place, is home to the largest publicly owned collection of British vehicles, from early bicycles to land speed record cars. Allow a couple of hours, and check the museum's own site for admission and opening times before you travel.

Parks and green space

The War Memorial Park, south of the centre near Earlsdon, is the city's best-loved green space, with wide lawns, tree-lined paths, a play area and the memorial itself. Check the council's park pages for facilities and current events.

For a longer outing, Coombe Abbey Park on the eastern edge of the city, beyond Binley, is run by Coventry City Council and offers woodland walks, lakes and wildlife.

Theatre, music and nights out

The Belgrade Theatre in the city centre stages drama, musicals, comedy and family shows through the year. Coventry has a strong live music tradition too, and smaller venues, pubs and arts spaces around the city keep it going.

Eat your way around the city

Coventry's food scene reflects its many communities. Foleshill Road is known for South Asian restaurants, sweet shops and grocers, Earlsdon Street has a cluster of cafes and neighbourhood restaurants, and FarGo Village on Far Gosford Street brings together independent food, makers and events.

Visit Coventry, the city's official visitor site, is a useful place to check what is on during your stay.