100 things to do in Coventry

Hey readers,

It’s not hard to fill a list of 100 things to do in Coventry, this lively West Midlands city blends deep history, a buzzing creative scene, and plenty of green space, making it perfect for a day out, a weekend, or even a longer stay. 

From world-class museums and historic landmarks to quirky markets, live music, and peaceful walks, there’s something for every taste and budget.

 Must-Visit Attractions.

1. See the ruins and modern Coventry Cathedral side by side in the Cathedral Quarter.

  

2. Climb the tower of Coventry Cathedral for panoramic city views.  

3. Visit the Coventry Transport Museum and marvel at the world’s largest collection of British-made vehicles.  

4. Admire the famous Lady Godiva painting at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.  

5. Explore the Herbert’s archaeology and local history galleries, from the Stone Age to the 20th century.  

6. Step inside St Mary’s Guildhall, one of England’s oldest surviving guildhalls, with tales of Mary, Queen of Scots and Shakespeare.  

7. Tour the National Trust’s Charterhouse, a 14th-century Carthusian monastery turned Elizabethan mansion.  

8. Walk around Coventry’s historic city walls and gatehouses, remnants of its medieval defences.  

9. Visit the Coventry Music Museum to dive into the city’s musical heritage, from The Specials to Delia Derbyshire.

  

10. See a show at the Belgrade Theatre, one of the UK’s leading producing theatres.

Parks, Nature & Outdoor Fun.

11. Stroll through War Memorial Park, one of the city’s largest green spaces.  

12. Have a picnic by the lake in War Memorial Park.  

13. Walk or cycle the Coventry Canal towpath.  

14. Explore Hearsall Common and its nature trails.  

15. Visit Coombe Abbey Park and enjoy woodland walks, a lake, and a historic abbey site.  

16. Spot birds and wildlife at Ryton Pools Country Park.  

17. Let kids loose on the adventure playground at Ryton Pools.

  

18. Ride the miniature railway at Ryton Pools.  

19. Walk through the beautiful gardens at Kenilworth Castle (just outside Coventry).  

20. Cycle the Coventry Way long-distance footpath.

Culture & Creativity.

21. Browse the independent shops and street art in the FarGo Village creative quarter.  

22. Catch a gig or club night at FarGo Village’s bars and event spaces.  

23. See a film at the independent cinema at FarGo Village.

  

24. Visit the Coventry University art galleries and student exhibitions.  

25. Attend a live performance at the Warwick Arts Centre on the University of Warwick campus. 

 

26. Explore the Coventry Central Library and its local history collections.

  

27. Join a guided walking tour of Coventry’s history and heritage. 

 

28. Take a ghost walk or historical tour in the Cathedral Quarter.

  

29. Visit the Coventry Archives to research local history. 

 

30. Attend an exhibition at the Coventry Cathedral Visitor Centre.

 

Food & Drink Experiences.

31. Try a traditional Sunday roast at a local pub. 

 

32. Sample craft beer at Twisted Barrel Brewery and Tap House.  

33. Take a brewery tour and tasting in Coventry.  

34. Visit a local vineyard or distillery for a tour and tasting.  

35. Enjoy afternoon tea in a historic building or café.  

36. Eat at a restaurant in the FarGo Village food hall.  

37. Try international cuisine in Coventry’s diverse restaurants and takeaways.  

38. Visit a farmers’ market for local produce and street food.  

39. Have a coffee and cake in one of Coventry’s independent cafés.  

40. Go on a food tour or themed dining experience.

 Shopping & Markets.

41. Shop at the Coventry Market (one of the largest covered markets in the UK).  

42. Browse the stalls at the Coventry Street Market.  

43. Visit the FarGo Village market and craft fairs.  

44. Explore the Coventry Precinct shopping centre. 

 

45. Find vintage and second-hand treasures in independent boutiques.  

46. Shop for books and records in Coventry’s independent shops.  

47. Visit a charity shop trail for unique finds.

  

48. Buy local crafts and art at craft fairs and pop-ups.  

49. Hunt for retro and collectable items at antique and vintage markets. 

 

50. Do a themed shopping day (e.g., books, vinyl, fashion).

Family & Kids’ Activities.

51. Let kids play at the adventure playground in War Memorial Park [6].  

52. Visit the Coventry Transport Museum with its hands-on exhibits.  

53. Take a family bike ride on traffic-free paths.

  

54. Feed ducks at a local park or country park. 

 

55. Attend a family workshop or event at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.  

56. Go to a kids’ show or pantomime at the Belgrade Theatre.  

57. Visit a soft play centre or indoor activity park.

  

58. Take a family canal boat trip or hire a rowing boat.  

59. Explore a local farm or petting zoo near Coventry.  

60. Attend a family-friendly festival or outdoor event.

 Sports & Events.

61. Watch Coventry City FC play at the Coventry Building Society Arena.  

62. Attend a concert or show at the Coventry Building Society Arena.  

63. See a rugby match at the Coventry Building Society Arena.  

64. Go to a comedy night at the Belgrade Theatre or HMV Empire.  

65. Attend a live music gig at a local pub or venue.  

66. Join a local running or walking group. 

 

67. Play a round of golf at a nearby course. 

 

68. Try indoor climbing or a trampoline park. 

 

69. Attend a local festival (music, food, arts, or cultural).  

70. Take part in a charity run or fun run.

 Day Trips & Nearby.

71. Visit Kenilworth Castle and its gardens. 

 

72. Explore Warwick Castle and its medieval attractions.

 

73. Walk around Stratford-upon-Avon and see Shakespeare’s birthplace.

  

74. Take a trip to Birmingham for shopping and culture.

75. Visit the National Memorial Arboretum near Lichfield.

76. Explore the Cotswolds countryside on a day trip.  

77. Take a canal boat holiday from a nearby base. 

 

78. Visit a stately home or garden in the West Midlands.  

79. Go to a theme park like Drayton Manor.  

80. Explore the historic town of Warwick.

Unique & Quirky Experiences.

81. Take the Coventry Tower Climb for city views.  

82. Try quad biking on local off-road tracks.  

83. Go on a themed escape room adventure.  

84. Try a pottery or craft workshop.  

85. Attend a murder mystery dinner or event.  

86. Take a photography walk or workshop around the city.  

87. Join a historical reenactment or living history event.  

88. Try a cocktail masterclass at a local bar.  

89. Visit a hidden gem or lesser-known local landmark.  

90. Take a guided tour of a historic pub or brewery.

Relaxing & Slow Travel.

91. Have a quiet coffee and read in a peaceful café.  

92. Sit by the water and watch the world go by at a canal or park. 

 

93. Do a mindfulness walk in a green space. 

 

94. Visit a local church or place of worship for quiet reflection. 

 

95. Read a book in a library or reading room.  

96. Take a long, aimless wander through Coventry’s streets and alleys.  

97. Sketch or paint a scene from the city.

  

98. Listen to live acoustic music in a café or bar.  

99. people-watch from a bench in a busy square. 

 

100. End the day with a sunset view over the city or a park.

Cheers for reading X

Review of Luminate at Coombe Abbey Park, Coventry.

Hey readers,

Luminate at Coombe Abbey is a beautifully staged winter light trail that turns one of Coventry’s best‑loved green spaces into a genuinely atmospheric after‑dark experience, powerful on mood, music, and family‑friendly interactive moments.

It is not the cheapest festive night out, and recent years have drawn some criticism for value and changes to the route, but if you time it right and know what to expect, it can still feel like a magical seasonal tradition rather than a one‑and‑done visit.

Setting and first impressions. 

The minute you arrive at Coombe Abbey after dark, the setting does most of the heavy lifting: the historic hotel, the long driveway, and the lakeside parkland all lend themselves perfectly to twinkly lights and theatrical lighting.

 Walking in feels more like entering an outdoor theatre set than a standard park event, with coloured uplighting in the trees, music drifting across the water, and clear signage and stewards helping to funnel people towards the trail start.

Once on the route, the trail is designed as a continuous one‑way loop of roughly a mile, taking around 60–90 minutes at a relaxed pace, which feels like a sweet spot: long enough to justify the ticket price, but not so long that younger kids melt down or adults get bored.

 The sound design is a significant part of the first impression as well, featuring gentle, cinematic soundscapes and festive tracks that build atmosphere without drowning out conversation.  

 Trail design and light installations. 

Luminate Coombe leans into immersive, sensory lighting rather than just big things to photograph, and when it works, it really works.

 Expect tunnels of light, colour‑changing trees, water reflections, and sections where the path seems to glow beneath your feet, all sequenced to music so you feel like you are walking through a story rather than a list of separate displays.

There are also interactive elements, from talking trees to light‑up features kids can trigger, which are a clever way of keeping families engaged as you move along the loop.

 That said, regulars have noticed that some fan‑favourite sections, like fields of lights and certain musical play installations, have disappeared or changed in recent years, which can make the experience feel slightly pared back if you are returning and expecting identical wow moments.

 Atmosphere, crowds and photo potential.

 

Atmosphere is where Luminate Coombe usually earns its praise: the combination of woodland, water, and historic architecture gives the whole walk a dreamy, slightly storybook feel.

There are plenty of “Instagrammable” moments, glowing tunnels, reflections on the lake, and backdrops with the Abbey in the distance, so content creators and families who love photos will come away with a full camera roll.

Crowd management is generally solid thanks to timed entry slots, but peak December weekends and early evening family slots can still feel busy, which might mean slower shuffles through popular installations and trickier clean photo angles.

 If you prefer a calmer, more contemplative experience, later slots on weeknights are usually a better choice and give you more time to linger at your favourite sections without feeling rushed from behind.

Practicalities: tickets, food and facilities.

Tickets for Luminate Coombe are in line with other UK light trails: not outrageous, but definitely something you feel as a deliberate seasonal spend, especially once you add parking, food, and drinks for a family.

 Early‑bird pricing and off‑peak dates can make it more affordable, and there are sometimes small perks such as discounts at the on‑site artisan market for trail ticket‑holders, which helps sweeten the deal if you plan to browse or shop.

On the night, you can expect a mix of on‑site cafés and independent street‑food traders serving hot drinks, marshmallows to toast, and typical winter comfort food, convenient, atmospheric, and tempting, but also another cost layer to budget for.

 Facilities at Coombe Abbey Park are decent, with paid parking close to the action, accessible routes, and toilets at sensible points. However, queues can build at peak times, and it is still very much an outdoor, weather‑dependent experience.

Pros, cons and overall verdict.  

Overall, Luminate Coombe Abbey is strongest for first-timers or those new to light trails: the setting is gorgeous, the trail is thoughtfully paced, and the combination of music, lights, and interactive features usually delivers a memorable festive evening.

Repeat visitors are more likely to notice changes year‑to‑year, and some have felt recent editions offered fewer standout installations for similar or higher prices, which can dull the magic if you are expecting constant escalation.

If you go in seeing it as a seasonal night‑time walk with beautiful lighting, photo‑friendly moments, and optional food and drinks rather than a huge theme‑park‑level spectacle, Luminate Coombe Abbey still earns its place on the local winter calendar.

 For Coventry and Warwickshire locals, it works best as a once‑every‑couple‑of‑years treat or a special family outing, rather than an annual must‑do, but when all the elements line up, it remains one of the area’s most atmospheric festive experiences.

Cheers for reading X

What you need to know about Cadbury World before going.

Hey readers, 

If you're a chocolate lover, chances are you've heard of Cadbury, the iconic British confectionery brand that has been delighting taste buds for over 190 years.

If you're a true chocoholic, you've probably dreamed of visiting Cadbury World, a chocolate-themed attraction located in the heart of Birmingham, England.

Well, dream no more! Here's everything you need to know about this mouth-watering destination.

Location and Getting There.

Cadbury World is situated in Bournville, a leafy suburb of Birmingham, just a stone's throw away from the city centre.

If you're driving, the attraction is easily accessible from the M5 and M6 motorways, with ample parking spaces available on-site.

Alternatively, you can take advantage of the excellent public transport links, with trains running regularly from Birmingham New Street station to the nearby Bournville station.

The Attraction.

Cadbury World is a self-guided tour that takes visitors on a journey through the rich history and captivating world of Cadbury chocolate.

The tour starts with a delightful 4D cinema experience that introduces you to the fascinating story of the Cadbury family and their legendary chocolate-making legacy.

Next, you'll embark on a guided walk through the factory itself, where you'll witness the mesmerising process of chocolate production first-hand.

From the roasting and grinding of cocoa beans to the moulding and packaging of the finished product, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the art and science behind every delectable Cadbury treat.

But Cadbury World isn't just about watching chocolate being made; it's also about indulging in it! Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to sample various Cadbury products, from the classic dairy milk to the more exotic and innovative flavours.

Interactive Zones.

One of the highlights of Cadbury World is the array of interactive zones that cater to visitors of all ages.

The Chocolate Making Zone, for instance, allows you to roll up your sleeves and try your hand at creating your own chocolatey masterpiece under the guidance of expert chocolatiers.

For those with a competitive streak, the 4D Chocolate Adventure is a must-visit. 

This thrilling ride takes you on a rollercoaster journey through a virtual Cadbury factory, complete with special effects that will leave you feeling like you're truly part of the action.

And let's not forget the Cadbury Café, where you can refuel with a range of delectable chocolate-themed treats and beverages.

From decadent hot chocolates to mouth-watering cakes and pastries, it's a chocoholic's dream come true.

The Cadbury World Shops.

No visit to Cadbury World would be complete without a trip to the on-site shops.

Here, you'll find an impressive array of Cadbury products, including limited-edition and exclusive items that you won't find anywhere else.

Whether you're looking for the perfect souvenir or just stocking up on your favourite treats, the Cadbury World shops are a treasure trove for chocolate enthusiasts.

Special Events and Experiences.

Throughout the year, Cadbury World hosts a variety of special events and experiences that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. 

From seasonal celebrations like Easter and Christmas to interactive workshops and behind-the-scenes tours, there's always something new and exciting happening at this chocolate-centric attraction.

Planning your visit.

To make the most of your Cadbury World experience, it's recommended to plan your visit in advance. 

You can purchase tickets online, which not only saves you time but also allows you to take advantage of any special offers or discounts that may be available.

When it comes to the best time to visit, the attraction is open year-round, but you may want to consider avoiding peak times, such as school holidays, to ensure a more enjoyable and less crowded experience.

Whether you're a lifelong Cadbury fan or simply a chocolate enthusiast looking for a unique and indulgent experience, Cadbury World is a must-visit destination. 

With its rich history, interactive exhibits, and mouth-watering treats, this chocolate-themed attraction offers something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for?

Plan your trip to Cadbury World today and prepare to embark on a deliciously unforgettable journey.

Cheers for reading X

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

 Hey readers, 

In the heart of Cornwall, England, lies a botanical wonderland that promises an unforgettable experience for families of all ages. 

The Eden Project, often described as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," is a mesmerizing and educational attraction that offers a unique blend of entertainment, education, and natural beauty. 

In this blog post, we'll delve into the myriad reasons why you should consider visiting the Eden Project as a family.

1. Education in Action. 

The Eden Project is not your typical tourist attraction; it's a living classroom. For parents, it's an excellent opportunity to introduce your children to the wonders of the natural world. 

The biomes at Eden house an incredible array of plant species from all over the globe. It's a chance for your children to learn about the importance of biodiversity, sustainability, and the environment in a fun and engaging way.

2. Immersive Experience.

The Eden Project boasts two colossal biomes: the Rainforest Biome and the Mediterranean Biome. These awe-inspiring structures offer an immersive experience like no other.

Step inside the Rainforest Biome, where you'll feel the humidity, hear the birdsong, and witness towering trees and exotic plants up close. It's a journey that will transport your family to distant lands without leaving Cornwall.

3. Adventure for All Ages. 

From the treetop walkways to the outdoor gardens, the Eden Project offers a wide range of activities suitable for all ages. 

Children can enjoy the Adventure Playground, while parents can relax in the beautifully landscaped gardens. It's a destination where every family member can find something to love.

4. Interactive Learning. 

Eden Project's team has designed an array of engaging activities and exhibits to keep young minds curious. 

These interactive learning experiences allow children to explore science, nature, and sustainability in a hands-on and entertaining manner. It's an ideal way to blend fun and education during your family vacation.

5. Stunning Architecture. 

Beyond its botanical wonders, the Eden Project's architectural marvels are reason enough to visit. The iconic biomes, designed by Sir Nicholas Grimshaw, are a testament to human ingenuity and eco-conscious construction.

 Exploring these structures is an inspiring lesson in sustainable architecture and environmental responsibility.

6. Sustainable Practices. 

Eden Project practices what it preaches. It has won numerous awards for its sustainable initiatives, from rainwater harvesting to renewable energy sources. 

Visiting Eden with your family not only provides an educational experience but also demonstrates the importance of environmental responsibility.

7. A Culinary Adventure. 

Eden's dining options cater to all tastes and dietary preferences. Sample locally sourced, organic dishes that showcase Cornwall's culinary delights. It's a fantastic opportunity to introduce your family to new flavours and support sustainable food practices.

A visit to the Eden Project as a family is a journey of discovery, education, and inspiration.

It's a chance to bond while exploring the wonders of the natural world, learning about sustainability, and immersing yourselves in stunning architecture. 

Whether your family consists of young children, teenagers, or adults, the Eden Project offers something for everyone.

 So, plan your visit today and create lasting memories that will inspire your family's appreciation for the planet and its diverse ecosystems.

Cheers for reading x 

The MAD museum review

Hey readers,

The other day we went to the MAD museum in Stratford-Upon-Avon for a family day out. I thought I would do a review of what the museum is all about. 

 What is the mad museum?

The Mad museum which stands for mechanical art and design is museum is the only mechanical type museum in the UK. The museum showcases 60 interactive pieces of kinetic art and automatic. It is definitely something a bit unusual and worth checking out as it is interactive and you can see the amazing designs that people have come up with work in real life.

  The main goal of the museum is to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) and they have done this by using the different types of contraptions on display from robotic birds, 3d pictures, and extravagant marble run displays. It is all visual which is great to encourage people to get excited about design and having fun. 

In the museum, there are some interactive displays where you can wave your hand to start the display or press the button to get the display to start. 

There is an area where kids can make their own marble wall so lovely to see them work out a formula to get the marbles to roll down smoothly from the top to the bottom. Some of the best learning I think it is from experimenting and giving it a go yourself. 

There are many displays of pictures of the designs before the actual display was made, so good to see how the minds of the creatures work and the process that they have to go through. 

There are some good optical illusions as well on display to mess up your mind haha!

Above is one of the intrinsic displays where you press the button on the side to start it up and you can watch in action the way the ball moves around through the design not reach the bottom. 

Where is the mad museum?

The MAD Museum is located in Stratford upon Avon and the address for the location is:

4-5 Henley Street,

Stratford-Upon-Avon, 

Warwickshire,

CV37 6PT. 

Telephone number is - 01789 269356

When does it open?

opening times are:

Monday to Friday - 10:30 - 4:30 pm. 

Weekends and holidays - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.

You do have to prebook tickets beforehand and you can do this by going on their website here.

parking 

What are the prices of the tickets?

The cost of tickets is listed below. 

Adult: £7.80.

Concession: £6.30.

Child (6-15yrs): £5.20.

Child 5yrs & under: Free.

Family (2 Adults & 2 Children): £22.00.

Extra Child with Family: £3.50.

What is the recommended age to go to the MAD museum?

Normally about 3 onwards though nothing stopping you at any age as children under 5 years of age are free anyway.

I would say to go around the museum would be about 45mins to an hour, it is quite small but there are a lot of interactive features that kids can enjoy.

They also have a little museum where it shows small videos on ideas such as a marble run which kids can enjoy. That is free and I like the fact that the videos are not too long so kids won't get bored watching them. 

Other things to do in Stratford. 

As well as the MAD museum there are other things you can do in Stratford. There is the Stratford theatre where you can go for free to check out the displays based on theatre themes. 

There is a lovely green park where you can walk around and is nice when the sun is out.  

Of course, there are many different types of water transport you can go to. We took the manual boat to get across the other side of the river. That was a fun experience for the kids and only cost £1 each so didn't break the bank.

Cheers for reading X