Weekend in Coventry

An indoor market with a mix of grocers, butchers, fishmongers, bakers, and stalls selling clothes, electronics, and household goods. Lively and authentic — a good place to see loca

Tip: The fishmonger (Chandler's) is excellent for fresh fish at good prices. For lunch, try the jerk chicken stall or Mr P's pie shop. Market opens early (7am) but quieter by 10am.

A 14th-century guildhall with a medieval hall, stained glass, and a vaulted undercroft. The Great Hall has a stunning timber ceiling and the Coventry Tapestry. Used for civic event

Tip: Entry is free but you often need to book a free timed ticket on their website, especially at weekends. Check the undercroft — it's sometimes closed for events.

One of the UK's largest collections of road transport, from cycles and motorbikes to cars and buses. Highlights include ThrustSSC and Thrust2 — the world's fastest cars. Interactive displays explain C

Tip: Go early on weekdays to avoid school groups. The museum is free but charges for special exhibitions — check their site. The café does decent tea and cake.

Two cathedrals side by side: the ruined medieval St. Michael's (bombed in WWII) and the striking modern replacement with Graham Sutherland's tapestry and John Piper's baptistry window. The ruins are o

Tip: Don't skip the charred cross of nails — a symbol of reconciliation. The new cathedral charges for some exhibitions, but the main nave and ruins cost nothing.

A large Victorian park with a war memorial, boating lake, bandstand, mini golf, tennis courts, and a café. Good for a picnic, a walk, or letting kids run around. Peaceful and well-maintained.

Tip: Park at the Kenilworth Road car park (free) near the river. The café does reasonable bacon sandwiches. If you want peace, avoid weekends when it's busy with families and dog walkers.