Looking for things to do in Coventry city centre? Discover one of the city's most iconic landmarks and enjoy stunning panoramic views from the top of the tower.

Coventry Cathedral, Blitz Museum & Tower Climb | Things to Do in Coventry

• Location: Coventry Cathedral, Priory Street, Coventry CV1 5FB

• Suitable for: Families, history lovers, visitors to Coventry, couples and tourists

• Admission: Cathedral entry is free. Tower Climb charges apply.

• Booking: No booking necessary. 

• Info: Visit the website for the latest opening times and visitor information.

Coventry Cathedral is one of the most famous attractions in Coventry and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city. Combining powerful wartime history, breathtaking architecture, spectacular city views and family-friendly experiences, Coventry Cathedral welcomes visitors throughout the year.

Internationally recognised as a symbol of peace and reconciliation, visitors can explore the striking New Cathedral, walk through the moving ruins of the original medieval cathedral destroyed during the Coventry Blitz, discover fascinating wartime stories in the Blitz Museum, and climb the famous Cathedral Tower for some of the best views in Coventry.

Explore the Historic Coventry Cathedral Ruins

The original St Michael's Cathedral was built between the late 14th and early 15th centuries and stood proudly at the heart of Coventry for centuries. On the night of 14 November 1940, during the Coventry Blitz, the cathedral was devastated by German bombing raids.

Today, the preserved ruins stand alongside the New Cathedral as a powerful reminder of the impact of war and the importance of peace. The atmospheric ruins remain one of the most photographed and recognisable landmarks in Coventry.

Visit the New Coventry Cathedral

Construction of the New Cathedral began shortly after the destruction of the original building. Opened in 1962, the striking modern design became an architectural landmark and is now one of the most visited attractions in the West Midlands.

Inside, visitors can admire stunning works of art, beautiful stained glass, impressive architecture and peaceful spaces for reflection. The Cathedral remains an active place of worship while welcoming thousands of visitors from around the world each year.

Tower Climb Coventry – See the Best Views in the City

For one of the best days out in Coventry, take on the Coventry Cathedral Tower Climb.

After climbing 180 steps, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views across Coventry city centre and beyond. Standing over 100 metres high, the Cathedral Tower is part of the third-highest cathedral in the UK and offers a unique perspective of the city's historic skyline.

Tower Climb Opening Times

• Saturdays: 11am – 3pm

• Sundays: 11am – 3pm

Opening times may vary depending on weather conditions.

Tower Climb Prices

Tickets can be purchased at the Tower Shop in the Ruins during normal Tower Climb opening hours.

• Adults: £5

• Students: £4 (valid student ID required)

• Under 18s: £2.50

• Go CV members receive 10% off adult tickets with a validated card

Please note that children under 8 years old are not permitted on the climb. The climb may not be suitable for younger children due to the number of steps and nature of the route.

Coventry Blitz Museum

Hidden within the Cathedral Ruins, the Blitz Museum offers a fascinating journey back to wartime Coventry.

Packed with authentic 1940s memorabilia, artefacts and displays, visitors can explore a period schoolroom, step inside a recreated wartime home and learn more about life during and after the Coventry Blitz. Friendly volunteers bring the stories to life, making this a memorable experience for both adults and children.

Blitz Museum Opening Times

• Saturdays: 11am – 3pm

• Sundays: 12pm – 3pm

Additional opening days may be available during school holidays and throughout the summer months.

Admission

Entry to the Blitz Museum is free, although donations are always appreciated to support the museum and its volunteers.

Events at Coventry Cathedral

Coventry Cathedral hosts a varied programme of events throughout the year, including family activities, exhibitions, concerts, seasonal celebrations, community events and special services. Many events are free to attend, making Coventry Cathedral a fantastic destination for families looking for free things to do in Coventry.

Find events at Coventry Cathedral

Cathedral Shop

Visitors can browse a range of unique gifts and souvenirs, including Cathedral-themed books, cards, CDs and keepsakes at the Welcome Desk. The Tower Gift Shop also offers Blitz-themed gifts, retro toys, traditional sweets and Coventry souvenirs to help visitors remember their trip. Shop online.

Visitor Information

Toilets

Public toilets are available inside the New Cathedral.

Parking Near Coventry Cathedral

There is no visitor parking directly at the Cathedral, but several city centre car parks are within easy walking distance:

• Salt Lane Car Park, CV1 2GY (approximately 6 minutes' walk)

• Lower Ford Street Car Park, CV1 5PS (approximately 10 minutes' walk)

Why Visit Coventry Cathedral?

• Free entry to one of Coventry's most famous landmarks

• Explore the historic Cathedral Ruins

• Visit the fascinating Blitz Museum

• Climb the Cathedral Tower for panoramic city views

• Family-friendly events throughout the year

• Beautiful architecture and artwork

• A powerful story of resilience, peace and reconciliation

Whether you're planning a family day out in Coventry, exploring Coventry city centre attractions, discovering local history or looking for the best views in the city, Coventry Cathedral offers a unique experience unlike anywhere else in the region.

Image Credit: Debbie Hall.

Image Credit to Debbie Hall.