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The windows of the 1962 Coventry Cathedral. Photo from Pexels.
Visiting Coventry Cathedral is free, though donations are welcome. The cathedral is usually open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm to 3.30pm on Sunday. Allow two hours to see the ruins of St Michael’s, the 1962 cathedral, Sutherland’s Christ in Glory and the Epstein sculpture.
Opening times changeServices and events can close parts of the cathedral. Check the cathedral calendar before you visit.
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Why is Coventry Cathedral famous?
Coventry Cathedral is famous because the medieval cathedral was destroyed in an air raid on 14 November 1940, and the city chose to keep its ruins beside a new cathedral. Together they became a symbol of peace and reconciliation.
The new cathedral, designed by Sir Basil Spence, was consecrated in 1962. Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem was written for the occasion.
What should you see at Coventry Cathedral?
The main things to see are the ruins, the sculpture on the outside wall and the art inside the 1962 building.
The ruins of St Michael’s
The shell of the medieval cathedral, with the charred cross and the words Father Forgive.
St Michael’s Victory over the Devil
Jacob Epstein’s bronze sculpture on the wall beside the entrance steps.
Christ in Glory
Graham Sutherland’s huge woven artwork of Christ, which fills the wall behind the altar.
The baptistry window
John Piper’s wall of coloured glass beside the font.
Detail of the Epstein sculpture at the cathedral entrance. Photo from Pexels.
When is Coventry Cathedral open?
Coventry Cathedral is usually open to visitors at these times. Services, concerts and events can change them.
| Day | Usual visiting hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Saturday | 10am to 4pm | Check the calendar for closures |
| Sunday | 12pm to 3.30pm | Services in the morning |
| Tower climb | Weekends, 11am to 3pm | Paid, weather permitting |
| Blitz Museum | Seasonal, mainly weekends | Spring and summer |
From the Coventry Cathedral website, November 2026.
What else is near Coventry Cathedral?
Several of Coventry’s best sights are within a few minutes’ walk of the cathedral.
- Holy Trinity Church, with its medieval Doom painting
- St Mary’s Guildhall on Bayley Lane
- The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, free entry
- Coventry University’s campus to the east
- Broadgate and the Lady Godiva statue to the west
For more ideas, see things to do in Coventry.
Local tips for visiting the cathedral
Visit the ruins at the end of the dayThe ruins are quieter in the late afternoon, and the light on the red sandstone is warmer.
Leave a donationEntry is free, but the cathedral relies on donations to stay open. Give what you can on your way out.
Book the tower climb on a clear dayThe tower climb runs at weekends. Choose a clear day for the best view across the city.
Where to stay near Coventry Cathedral
£120 / night3-bed house, Coventry
- 3 double bedrooms
- 6 beds
- Free parking
Near the Canal Basin, on foot to the city centre and the cathedral quarter. Three double bedrooms and free parking.
See the 3-bed house
£160 / night5-bed en-suite house, Coventry
- 5 bedrooms
- 5 en-suite shower rooms
- Garden
Five en-suite bedrooms and good road links, a short drive into the centre.
See the Coventry houseFrequently asked questions
Is Coventry Cathedral free to visit?
Yes. There is no charge to visit the ruins or the new cathedral, though the cathedral asks visitors to donate if they can. The tower climb is a paid extra at weekends.
How long do you need at Coventry Cathedral?
Allow about two hours to see the ruins and the new cathedral properly. Add an hour if you climb the tower or visit the Blitz Museum when it is open.
Can you go inside the ruins of Coventry Cathedral?
Yes. The ruins of St Michael’s are open to walk through during visiting hours. They are sometimes used for events, so check the calendar before you go.
Is there parking near Coventry Cathedral?
There is no dedicated cathedral car park. Use the city centre multi-storey car parks around the ring road, or walk in from accommodation nearby.
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Planning a visit to Coventry Cathedral?
Send us your dates, and we will check which house is free for your stay.
