Visiting Coventry Cathedral : A Place of Beauty, History, and Hope
For someone who lives only about a 40-minute drive from Coventry, until the other day I had never visited the city, let alone the cathedral. So I decided to rectify that and take a visit.
Surprisingly for me I went in blind, I didnt even google the place before I went so I had no idea what to expect, which I feel is sometimes the best way to experience things.
I have to say that this is a place that will stay with me for a while. I love things that are a little bit different and Coventry Cathedral is just that. It’s not just another historic church, it’s a powerful symbol of resilience, reconciliation, and faith in the face of destruction.
Whether you’re visiting as a history lover, a person of faith, or just someone looking for a moment of reflection, there’s something about Coventry that I feel leaves a lasting impression.
From the mid century interior, to the melding of the ruins and the new cathedral to the wonderful message of reconciliation.
A Tale of Two Cathedrals
The Old Ruins
Most cathedrals tell a story, but Coventry tells two. The original medieval cathedral, dedicated to St. Michael, stood in the heart of the city for centuries, until the night of 14th November 1940. That night, during the Coventry Blitz, German bombs devastated the city, leaving the cathedral in ruins. But rather than clearing the wreckage and moving on, the people of Coventry made a bold choice: they would leave the ruins as a memorial and build a new cathedral alongside, not as a symbol of defeat, but of hope.
I found it fascinating to stand in the ruins and I’m so glad they left them there as the juxtaposition between old and new is quite astonishing. They feel like a silent witness, yet also a testament to resilience.
At the altar, you’ll see a simple cross made from two charred wooden beams, discovered in the rubble after the bombing. It’s a stark but powerful reminder of faith amidst destruction.
Another striking detail is the inscription behind the altar: Father Forgive. The words aren’t just a statement about the past, they’re a call to forgiveness in the present. Coventry’s commitment to reconciliation is a central theme throughout the cathedral’s story.
The New Cathedral
The new cathedral stands as a bold vision to the future. Designed by Sir Basil Spence, the new Coventry Cathedral is nothing like a traditional medieval church. Instead of gothic spires and stone carvings, you’ll find bold modern architecture, stunning stained glass and dramatic works of art.
The first thing that hits you when you step inside is the huge tapestry behind the altar. Designed by Graham Sutherland, it depicts Christ in Majesty and measures an astonishing 75 feet tall. It’s hard not to feel small standing beneath it.
The stained glass is another highlight and was one of my favourite things. Instead of traditional biblical scenes, the windows flood the space with color, creating an ethereal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. As you move through the cathedral, the light shifts, changing how everything looks. Something about it makes the space feel alive.
For me, what I found fascinating was seeing all the traditional parts of a church but in such a modern and interesting form. Nothing here resembles anything in my church but somehow, it feels comforting and familiar.
One of Coventry Cathedral’s most important missions is reconciliation. The Cross of Nails, made from the metal of the old cathedral’s roof, has become an international symbol of peace. The Reconciliation Chapel continues this work today, offering a space for reflection and prayer.
The cathedral has also built relationships with cities that have suffered wartime destruction, including Dresden and Hiroshima. This isn’t just a place that remembers the past, it actively works toward healing. While there we took part in a short midday reconciliation service which was lovely.
One thing that sets Coventry apart is its modern art. Throughout the cathedral, you’ll find striking sculptures and paintings that challenge, inspire, and sometimes even unsettle.
Some highlights include:
- Jacob Epstein’s ‘St. Michael and the Devil’ – A towering sculpture on the cathedral’s exterior, showing the archangel Michael standing victorious over Satan.
- John Piper’s Baptistry Window – A swirling, vibrant stained-glass window that bathes the area in color.
- The Great West Screen – A dramatic etched-glass window depicting saints and angels.
For me though, the piece that caught my eye the most was what appeared to be birds rising from the choir stalls and seemingly floating around the sides of the high altar.
I very rarely feel comfortable in huge spaces but here I did. For such a large cavernous place it somehow feels cosy and comforting.
Planning Your Visit
Coventry Cathedral is open daily, and entrance is free, though donations are welcome. Guided tours are available if you want to dive deeper into the history, and there’s also a small café and gift shop.
- Location: Priory Street, Coventry
- Opening Hours: Typically 10 AM – 4 PM, but check ahead for special services or events
- Nearest Railway Station: Coventry Station, about a 10-minute walk away
If you have time, it’s worth exploring the surrounding area. The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is nearby and we had a wonderful sandwich there. The medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Priory offer another glimpse into Coventry’s past. I also highly recommend a visit to a Holy Trinity Church, a stone’s throw from the cathedral. It’s a beautiful building and has a very rare doom painting.
Coventry Cathedral for me is more than just a building, it’s a story of faith, forgiveness, and resilience. Whether you come to admire the architecture, reflect on its history, or simply sit in its quiet spaces, it’s a place that leaves an impression.
It’s also a cathedral that has something different and unique and for once is more than just an historic building.
This article was written by Sarah Newton and reflects her opinion on this matter. Other opinions within the church and the wider Church of England may differ.
