Self Guided Tour of St Mary's Guildhall Coventry

St Marys Guildhall Coventry

Step inside St Marys Guildhall in the heart of Coventry and discover one of the citys most historic buildings. Visitors can admire its impressive architecture while exploring centuries of stories connected with merchant guilds royalty politics literature and everyday life. The Guildhall offers a fascinating glimpse into Coventrys important past.

Originally built as the headquarters of the merchant guild of St Mary the building later became a significant centre of power during the War of the Roses. It once housed the crown jewels and served as a prison for Mary Queen of Scots. The Guildhall also welcomed notable literary figures including George Eliot.

A major highlight is the newly unveiled medieval kitchen which had remained hidden from the public for around 100 years. Considered one of the best preserved kitchens in the country it reveals where grand feasts were prepared and where local people received food when the space later operated as a Victorian soup kitchen.

Visitors can also admire the magnificent Great Hall and the famous Coventry Tapestry which has remained in its historic location for around 500 years. The Guildhall tells the story of Coventrys medieval wool trade and its role in making the city an important centre of commerce and power.