A modernist triumph, and one of the most sensitive post-WWII rebuilds in the country, Coventry Cathedral is worth a long visit. Its soaring spires and modern art sculptures sit next to the hulk of the original St Michael’s Cathedral which was left roofless and gutted after the firestorm of the Coventry Blitz. The spire of the old Cathedral stands next to the new: and you can see the whole interior of the bombed-out ruin by climbing the modernist tower. Daily visits are possible both to the new and old cathedrals, outside of worshipping hours. There is an entry fee for both buildings.

Great for: History

Coventry’s influence in the history of transport is brilliantly memorialised in the Coventry Transport Museum, which includes the legendary Thrust SSC – the fastest car ever driven, achieving insane speeds of 730mph plus. Marvel at the engineering miracle that carried Andy Green into the record books, and sit in on the drive in the Museum’s hair-raising land speed simulator. You’ll also find vehicles emblematic of the history of motoring, and of Coventry – including Lady Diana’s Mini, the half a millionth Massey Ferguson tractor to be built in Coventry, and the Sky Blues Bus: the bus that transported the city’s football team around the city after they beat Spurs to the FA Cup in 1987.

Great for: Day Trips

The Ricoh Arena is Coventry’s premier location for sports, music and shows. It’s also Coventry City’s home ground. Check local listings for gigs, exhibitions and match days. If sports or shows aren’t on your agenda, you might still find yourself heading out to the Ricoh, to visit the Arena Park Shopping Centre: one of Cov’s largest, which was built at the same time as the Ricoh in the grounds of the stadium. Major brands occupy the retail park, which also has a smaller mall filled with boutique stores. The Ricoh arena hosts rugby, American football and darts matches.

Great for: Events