Coventry, located in the middle of England, dwarfed by Birmingham but my home for the past four years. Whilst studying at the university I’ve seen the best and worst of the city, but here are my top five things to do in Coventry (plus a few others outside the city centre):
- Coventry Transport Museum
One of the best, if not the best free museum in the UK. A good few hours can be spent wandering around the transport museum looking at Coventry’s famous automotive past. If you have a few hours to spare in the city, make sure you take a visit.
2. Up the spire at Coventry Cathedral
Another cheap yet rewarding experience in Coventry, for £1.50 get the best view of the city from the top of the Cathedral spire. On a clear day, you can see for miles across Coventry and the West Midlands and pick out some of the more iconic landmarks. Also, check out the Cathedral itself whilst you’re there!
3. Independent food and coffee shops
Although not famous for its selection of independent cafes, restaurants and coffee shops Coventry has a few it can be proud of. Those I recommend include Kahawa cafe, Finney’s, Millsy’s, Fargo Village and Falafel Corner.
4. Watch ice hockey at the Skydome
A trip to watch the Coventry Blaze is always action packed and enjoyable. Ice hockey is growing steadily in the UK with Coventry fans hoping for a good end to the season.For a great evening out for all the family, attending a Coventry Blaze match is a must.
5. Coombe Abbey
The idyllic venue sat just outside the centre is perfect for a family afternoon out in the sun. With plenty of green space and the possibility of having your own BBQ on site in the summer, Coombe Abbey is something to be enjoyed by everyone.
If you’re prepared to travel a little bit further out of Coventry then the next two experiences are a must:
1. Guide Dogs National Breeding Centre
Another free activity, a fifteen-minute drive outside of Coventry, visiting the impressive guide dog training centre gives you the chance to see puppies run around whilst understanding the significant impact the guide dogs charity carries out.
2. Birmingham Christmas Market
One of the best and longest standing Christmas markets in the U.K., get into the Christmas spirit by drinking German beer from a stein, eating pretzels, schnitzel or a bratwurst in the surroundings of Birmingham city centre.
James Jackson 