Coventry is opening its doors, quite literally, this 12th – 21st September as part of Heritage Open Days, England’s largest festival of history and culture.
Explore Coventry’s rich and remarkable past, trying out new experiences and discovering the hidden gems of the city – all completely for free.
This year’s festival theme is Architecture – exploring how we’ve designed and built the world around us. From hidden chapels and medieval cellars to behind-the-scenes tours of some of the city’s best-loved buildings, this is your chance to see Coventry’s buildings in a brand-new light – all thanks to the Heritage Open Days festival.
What is the Heritage Open Days festival?
Heritage Open Days is a nationwide celebration that sees thousands of historic buildings, landmarks, and cultural sites open their doors to the public at no cost.
The festival presents a unique opportunity for the naturally curious to explore places that are not usually accessible and discover new and exciting stories about spots that may otherwise be completely familiar.
Run by the National Trust and supported by volunteers across the country, Heritage Open Days brings people and families together to celebrate the diverse heritage and community spirit that shapes our country’s towns and cities.
Why visit Coventry during Heritage Open Days?
While there are plenty of venues and events in the city throughout the year to keep you entertained, Heritage Open Days offers a unique opportunity to engage in a side of Coventry that most people don’t get to see.
Visiting a Heritage Open Day event is…
- Cost effective: All events are completely free of charge, making it the perfect low-cost day out.
- Adventurous: Many venues open only during this festival, giving you the rare opportunity to explore hidden spaces.
- Meaningful: Learn about Coventry from the people who know and love it best, engaging with local stories from passionate volunteers, historians, and guides.
- Enjoyable: It’s fun for all ages – and whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, there’s something for everyone.
You may even discover something exciting, ignite a new passion, or create core memories for your family – all the while supporting the hidden heritage of the city.
How Coventry is taking part
As a city with a proud history stretching back over a thousand years, it’s no secret that Coventry has plenty to showcase.
This year, the city is once again taking part in the Heritage Open Days festival with a varied programme of events and open venues between 12th – 21st September 2025.
Enjoy exclusive access to sites you’ve always wanted to see behind the scenes, and take advantage of the guided tours, exhibitions, talks, and family-friendly activities that shed light on the city’s fascinating past and its role in shaping the future.
The following events have been confirmed so far:
- 12th September – Coventry Cathedral ‘The women who wove the largest tapestry in the UK’ and ‘Meet the unsung builders behind the New Cathedral’ exhibitions
- 13th September – Coventry Cathedral ‘Weaving under the largest tapestry in the UK’ and ‘Coventry Cathedral's best kept secret the Blitz Museum’
- 13th September – Daimler Powerhouse open day
- 13th September – Anglican Chapel open day
- 14th September – The Great Meeting House Unitarian Church
- 19th September – Dalecote House (Coventry Masonic Hall)
- 19th September – Coventry Cathedral ‘The unsung builders behind the New Cathedral, a photography exhibition opening and panel talk’
- 20th September – St Mary’s Guildhall
- 20th September – River Festival Coventry
- 20th September – Coventry Railway Model Club open weekend
- 20th September – St Pauls Wordsworth Avenue
- 21st September – Coventry City Gates
Stay tuned for future listings
Check the growing programme for Coventry’s Heritage Open Days, or keep an eye on this blog and our social media channels for updates. Then grab your diary and start planning your cultural adventure through time this September.