This magnificent medieval guildhall houses an impressive stash of historic treasures like paintings, stained glass windows, and centuries-old armor. Famous figures have wined, dined, and been imprisoned within its walls.
The building started its life as part of the now largely demolished Coventry Castle. It was built around 1340 and was gradually extended as the various merchant guilds of Coventry amalgamated and adopted the building as their administrative and ceremonial headquarters.
The guildhall was the main stronghold of Henry VI’s court during the Wars of the Roses. It still guards a treasured relic from this era. A famous tapestry believed to depict Henry VI and Margaret of Anjou, installed in 1499, still hangs in its original location.
King Henry VI wasn’t the only royal to set foot inside. In 1570, following a Catholic rebellion in the north of England, Queen Elizabeth ordered Mary Queen of Scots, already a prisoner in Staffordshire, to be moved to the walled city of Coventry. Mary spent only one night in St. Mary’s Guildhall, but was detained at other places in the city for several months.
Famous voluntary visitors spent time within its historic walls, too. King James II was said to have been so well entertained during his time at the guildhall that the banqueting table collapsed under the weight of all the food. Dick Whittington, three times Lord Mayor of London, also stopped by.
Now, there’s a cafe located in the guildhall’s undercroft, which is open year-round. The main parts of the guildhall are only open seasonally, and those who visit during this time can expect to be awed by the medieval architecture, decor, and artifacts. If you do find yourself there during the off season, even just viewing the building’s exterior is enough to make you feel as though you’ve been transported back to the Middle Ages.
Admission to the guildhall is free. It is open for public visits from mid-March to early October, Sunday to Thursday. The best parking is next to the Pool Meadow bus station.
Coventry railway station is a 20-minute walk or you can get a bus to Pool Meadow.
Dr Alan P Newman
