As soon as it was opened in 1962, Coventry Cathedral became a major tourist attraction, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. The Cathedral opens its doors to visitors all year round and everybody is welcome to attend for worship

Coventry Cathedral & Blitz Museum | Things to do in Coventry

The Cathedral is free to enter but visitor donations are crucial in enabling the Cathedral to continue offering free admission in the long term. Information about visiting the Cathedral is in the visitor information section of this website.

Cathedral Ruins

The original St Michael’s Cathedral in Coventry was built between the late 14th century and early 15th century. It now stands ruined, bombed almost to destruction during the massive attack on the city by German bombers on the night of November 14th, 1940. The bombed out remains of the old church were kept intact next to the new one, as a reminder of the futility of war.

New Cathedral

The decision to build the New Cathedral was made the day after the old one was destroyed in the blitz. Both old and new buildings are constructed from the same type of sandstone. The new cathedral’s design caused much controversy, but on opening to the public it rapidly became popular and is now a widely recognized symbol of reconciliation. 

Tower Climb

Please note, the Tower Climb is currently closed due to refurbishment.

Blitz Experience Museum

Located in the corner of the Cathedral Ruins, the Blitz Museum is a treasure trove of 1940's memorabilia and artefacts. Visitors will learn more about the Coventry Blitz on 1940 in our period school room, and will then travel through a typical house of the time and learn more about life in this era from one of our friendly and knowledgeable volunteers.

February half-term opening hours:

The Blitz Museum will be open over half-term on the following days:

• Saturday 14th February 11am - 3pm
• Sunday 15th February 12pm - 3pm
• Monday 16th February 11am - 3pm
• Wednesday 18th February 11am - 3pm
• Friday 20th February 11am - 3pm
• Saturday 21st February 11am - 3pm
• Sunday 21st February 11am - 3pm

After this the Blitz Museum will aim to be open every Saturday 11am - 3pm and Sunday 12pm - 3pm until November.

Free admission

The Blitz Museum is manned entirely by our dedicated volunteers who give up their free time in order to support it, so visitors should arrive in good time to visit before the Museum closes. Please note because this is ran by volunteers timings may alter at short notice.

Events at Coventry Cathedral

Coventry Cathedral regularly host family friendly events and they're usually free of charge. Click here to see what's on at Coventry Cathedral.

Shop

You will find a specially selected range of Cathedral themed books, souvenirs, cards, CD’s and other items which can be purchased at the Welcome Desk by the main entrance of the New Cathedral. There is also a gift shop located in the base of the Cathedral Tower. You will find a range of Blitz themed items, retro toys, sweets, general Cathedral souvenirs, and even a squirrel shaped item or two!

Toilets

There are toilets located in the New Cathedral.

Parking

There is no parking available in side streets near the venue. The nearest public parking is:

• Salt Lane CV1 2GY (6 min walk)
• Lower Ford Street CV1 5PS (10 min walk)

Image Credit to Debbie Hall.