Banbury

A UK Canal Boating Article

Category : Places

 

Lying on the banks of the River Avon Coventry began as a Saxon village and took its name from Coffantree which means the tree belonging to Coffa. Trees were used as meeting places and a settlement grew up around this tree and later became Coventry.

The Cathedral has been a place of worship for over 900 years. Take a tour with one of the guides to learn the history of the city's most famous landmark. Climb the 180+ steps of St Michael's Tower and learn about the wartime history of Coventry in the Cathedral's Blitz Experience Museum.

The legend of Lady Godiva is very special to Coventry and most people know the story of this proud Lady who rode through the streets in protest at the high taxes that her husband Earl Leofric had imposed on the town. Her very special statue by Sir William Dick was unveiled in 1949 and is located in Broadgate.

Medieval Coventry comes to life at the Priory Visitor Centre, the site when excavated revealed the remains of Coventry's first Cathedral and the Priory Undercrofts. Take a guided tour of the Undercroft, the vaulted rooms, courtyards and passage. The Priory Garden was created over the excavated remains of the nave and now includes a floor sculpture designed by Chris Browne.

Standing in the heart of Coventry for over 650 years St. Mary's Guildhall has witnessed some of history's most important events. It served as a centre of King Henry VI's court during the Wars of the Roses and briefly as a prison to Mary Queen of Scots. Visitors from all over the world are fascinated by centuries worth of stories and ghostly legends which are brought to life by the guides. Visit Godiva's the popular cafe-restaurant where in a historic setting you can stay for morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea.

Sir Frank Whittle, inventor of the jet engine was one of Coventry's most famous residents. Visit the Midland Air Museum to gain inside knowledge about the inventor and the history of the jet engine. The Museum is home to a heritage centre dedicated to his memory and the story of the jet age is told in pictures and video.

For inspiration visit the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum which is home to eight galleries. Stroll around the History Centre where you will find a treasure trove of information about the history of Coventry and its citizens from medieval times to the present day. The licensed cafe serves a full range of hot drinks and snacks throughout the day. For a wide range of gifts and souvenirs there is something to suit every pocket at the Herbert Shop.

For a family day out visit Coombe Country Park and marvel at the 500 acres of beautiful gardens with woodland and lakeside walks. Coombe Country Park offers a wide range of facilities including the Discovery Centre and History room. The park also has a climbing forest and children's play areas or for the less active stunning walks around the gardens and lake.

Shopaholics rejoice this city has it all and is perfect for some retail therapy whether you are looking for antiquities or for up to date fashion. For fresh produce at its best visit Coventry Retail Market located in the city centre this is a large indoor market. The Antiques Adventure centre is a must if you are searching for that particular collectable or for that unusual item of furniture.

 

 

More Canal Boating Articles

 

Holiday Bases

Gayton
Market Harborough

 

Canals

Coventry
Grand Union
Oxford

 

Rivers

Thames

 

 

Places to Visit

Banbury