Join us at St Mary’s Guildhall for an evening of music, storytelling and entertainment. With live musical performances that celebrate Black excellence and creativity, showcasing the contributions of Black artists to global culture and entertainment and storytelling that highlight the resilience, innovation, and beauty of the Black experience, creating a space for reflection, connection, and joy.
The evening will be hosted by Sandra Godley OBE, an acclaimed singer-songwriter, OBE recipient, and advocate for diversity, Sandra will not only host the event but bring her personal insights and experience to the forefront.
Gates open at 6.45 for a 7pm start
‘Lest We Forget’
Join us at 10:40am on Monday 11th November for a short service to remember the fallen.
Don’t miss out on our Mulled Wine and Christmas Tours taking place in December 1st, 8thand 15th.
Immerse yourself in the festive charm at St Mary’s Guildhall, adorned beautifully for the Christmas season.
🍷Sip on a delightful glass of mulled wine in our picturesque courtyard, nestled beneath a stunning Christmas tree. Afterward, embark on a guided tour through this remarkable 700-year-old building. Learn about Christmas traditions spanning the ages from our knowledgeable guides while soaking in the enchanting atmosphere of St Mary’s, elegantly dressed in its seasonal splendour.
Age 18+ Please note non alcoholic alternative available.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of Christmas cheer at our Great Hall Christmas Joiner Party on December 13th.
Start your festivities with a delightful array of mouthwatering canapés and a drink upon arrival. Then, savour a sumptuous three-course set menu accompanied by half a bottle of wine per person.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere with an exciting disco featuring all your favourite Christmas tunes, ensuring your evening is a true celebration of the season. Arrival time: 7 pm.
Package include:
Chef’s choice of 3 canapés.
Arrival drink.
Christmas crackers.
3 course festive set menu.
Half a bottle of wine per person.
Tea/coffee and mince pies to follow.
Disco.
Please note table lay-outs, tables sizes and room plans are at the discretion of the venue due to the numbers attending each event and you may be sat with other attendees.
Tickets for this event are non-refundable and non-transferable.
This event is strictly 18+ and ID may be required.
Experience the Magic of Dickens’ Classic: A One-Man Show of “A Christmas Carol”
Step into the enchanting world of Charles Dickens’ timeless holiday tale, “A Christmas Carol,” brought to life by a masterful solo performance by Actor Christopher Commander.
Join us for an unforgettable evening as one actor takes on the challenge of portraying all the beloved characters in this heartwarming story of redemption and holiday spirit.
Event Highlights:
Captivating Solo Performance: Witness the extraordinary seamless transitions between characters, including the miserly Scrooge, the ethereal ghosts, and the warm-hearted Cratchits.
Intimate Setting:The spectacular atmosphere of the great hall will make you feel as though you are experiencing the story first-hand.
Pre-Show Drinks:Arrive early and enjoy festive drinks at the Tales of Tea Restaurant, open from 6:30 PM. It’s the perfect way to set the mood for the evening’s entertainment.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of “A Christmas Carol” like never before. Perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to add a touch of Dickensian charm to their holiday season.
Book your tickets now for an evening of storytelling that will warm your heart and ignite your holiday spirit!
Recommended for guests ages 16+.
Please note the bar in our Tales of Tea Restaurant is open for pre-show drinks from 6:30 PM.
This event will last one hour.
Step into the enchanting holiday atmosphere at St Mary’s Guildhall, adorned in festive splendour, on December 11th and 17th. Embark on a seasonal, guided tour of this historic 700-year-old building, where knowledgeable guides will regale you with tales of Christmas traditions throughout the ages. Immerse yourself in the Christmas charm of the Guildhall, featuring breathtaking decorations, real trees, twinkling lights, and the invigorating scent of evergreen.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the Guildhall Tudors in action in the Medieval Kitchen, as they prepare for the 12 days of Christmas giving visitors an insight into seasonal feasts and games from the Tudor period.
Discover the enchantment of St Mary’s Guildhall with our exclusive Winter Warmer Tours. Step back in time and explore the fascinating 700-year-old building, guided by our knowledgeable and friendly expert guides who will bring the rich history of the Guildhall to life.
Begin your journey with a delightful warming mulled cider in our medieval kitchen, setting the perfect tone for your historical adventure. Our guides will lead you through the grand halls and hidden corners of this remarkable site, sharing captivating stories and insights from its storied past.
Tickets are just £7 per person, offering exceptional value for an unforgettable experience. Please note, this tour is suitable for visitors aged 18 and over. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to embrace the magic of St Mary’s Guildhall this winter!
Pumpkin Penny is in a pickle!
Can you help her out by uncovering the pesky pest that is causing problems in her pumpkin patch?
Follow the clues around the Guildhall to find out who has been eating Penny’s pumpkins, meet Penny in the Great Hall to make a mini scarecrow and help her solve her problem, perhaps she will reward you for your help!
Pumpkin Penny will be available between 10.00-1200 and 13.00-15.00.
Meet the Guildhall Tudors in the Medieval kitchen to find out about Tudor medicine and superstitions, make you own plague charm and meet ‘WhatsIt’ the barn owl, otherwise known as a ‘ghost owl’!
Guests will tread the same ground as historical figures such as Mary Queen of Scots and Frederick Douglass and hear about the centuries of gripping history that unfolded in Coventry though an immersive digital tour.
Discounted entry rates apply for Coventry residents with a valid GOCV card. Please note a limited number of advance booked tickets are available. To apply your GOCV discount online for Ghostly Guildhall please select the ticket type you require from the ticket drop down list.* If this option is not available it has sold out of its online capacity. Additional walk-up tickets for GOCV holders are available on the day of visit subject to availability.*
*Please note proof of GO CV and GOCV+ validity required at time of admission and without valid evidence entrance maybe denied.
This October, we’re getting into the spooky season by ramping up our Tour of Warwick, exclusively about the ghosts, crimes, murders and legends of the town.
Warwick’s #1 Walking Tour is about to get even more terrifying.
This October, we’re getting into the spooky season by ramping up our Tour of Warwick, exclusively about the ghosts, crimes, murders and legends of the town.
🎃Multiple Tours running throughout the month
💀New surprises and special effects
🏰A new starting point – the dark tunnel under Westgate!
🎭A terrifying new character on select tours – The Plague Doctor
The nights will be darker, as we wander to famous locations in Warwick town, including Warwick Castle, and find out what shocking stories took place on that spot.
Tours are recommended for ages 10 and up but our later tours may be too scary for young children! You have been warned.
Are you brave enough to learn the true history of Warwick?
Please join us for the launch of the book “The St Mary’s Hall Coventry Tapestry: Weaving the Threads Together”. When Coventry was European City of Culture in 2019 a conference was held to celebrate one of the city’s most precious cultural legacies, the early-sixteenth-century tapestry in St Mary’s Hall. The proceedings of that conference are now published with additional materials and many high-resolution photographs, edited by Mark Webb.
The evening will include a panel talk with contributors Joanna Laynesmith, Jonathan Foyle, Wendy Toulson and Mark Webb, the opportunity to buy the book and light refreshments.
Join us for a spooktastic Halloween parade inspired by the legendary Wild Hunt!
Immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit by creating your very own scary lantern to carry during the parade. Join the other beasts, ghouls, and goblins as we bring the Wild Hunt to life in the heart of Coventry. Our weekly crafting sessions are the perfect opportunity to design your unique lantern. These activities can be tricky for little hands, so a parent or guardian is required, making it a fantastic team activity for families and friends.
As Halloween night approaches, we’ll gather at the historic St Mary’s Guildhall. From there, we’ll embark on a thrilling parade through Coventry town center, showcasing our eerie creations and spreading spooky cheer. The parade will wind its way through the streets, culminating back at St Mary’s Guildhall.
To cap off the evening, enjoy a short, spine-chilling shadow show that promises to delight and frighten in equal measure. This event is perfect for those who love Halloween and want to experience the magic of the season in a unique and creative way.
Don’t miss out on the fun and fright – come and be part of our Wild Hunt Halloween Parade!
Celebrate the bank holiday on Monday, 26th August, with our exciting new immersive dragon experience.
Join our valiant Dragon Trainer as they take you on a never-seen-before journey through the Guildhall’s legendary past. Along the way, you’ll hear valiant tales and learn what it takes to become a dragon tamer whilst also meeting some legendary friends. All before you come face to face with a full-sized dragon which has nested here in Coventry!
Featuring life like puppets and an actor-led adventure, explore the Guildhall and hunt for dragons.
This is an estimated 1 hour experience and all children must be supervised by a responsible attending adult who must also purchase a ticket.
On the Friday 2ndof August, don’t miss our special birds of prey talk. Get up close and personal with up to 6 birds of prey in the Great Hall and learn about their historical significance as symbols of power, wealth, and royalty.
Each session is 1 hour.
Recommended for visitors aged 7+.
Harriet Walter brings George Eliot to bold and dramatic life, through Eliot’s novels, letters, journals, poetry and journalism.
In tune with George Eliot’s radicalism, Orchestra of the Swan’s Artistic Director David Le Page has devised a dazzlingly creative music programme that features 21st century female singer-songwriters including Kate Bush, Florence Welch, PJ Harvey and Joan Armatrading.
Performing with acclaimed singer-songwriter, SuRie. Internationally renowned for classical, pop and musical theatre, SuRie also won the Offie for Lead Performance in a Musical in 2024 for her portrayal of Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun.
Coventry played a huge part in Eliot’s life, and this performance has been commissioned by St Mary’s Guildhall, Coventry. George Eliot is said to have set the courtroom scene in Adam Bede in their 700 year-old Great Hall.
Script commissioned by St Mary’s Guildhall with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund thanks to National Lottery players.
Fine dining options available for this performance.
Narrator Harriet Walter
Vocals SuRie
Music Director David Le Page
Writer Deirdre Shields
Ticket Price: £35 (concert only)
£75 Premium package (per person) includes 2 course dining at the Tales of Tea restaurant and seating in the front two rows of the concert
£70 Gold package (per person) includes 2 course dining at the Tales of Tea restaurant and seating in the middle rows of the concert.
Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis in each zone.
Pre-Concert Dinner Menu Information
Click here to view the Pre-Concert dinner menu: Pre-concert dinner menu
When booking your combined pre-dinner and concert ticket, please select a main course and a dessert course in the booking options. If you prefer to decide closer to the event, select the ‘I will decide nearer the time’ tab, and we will contact you to confirm your choice. However, please specify your dietary requirements now.
PLEASE NOTE the dietary requirements box requires text in the field. Therefore if you do not have any dietary requirements, please enter N/A.
Charterhouse will be open on 22/23 June, 27/28 July and 17/18 August from 10am to 4pm
Check our website for details of tours and events on those days.
Have you ever fancied having a go at willow weaving? Now is your chance to learn all about the historic art of willow weaving and create your own handcrafted bird feeder and cornucopia (suitable for multiple purpose such as hanging plants).
We will be hosting two willow weaving workshops in the unique historic surroundings of St Mary’s Guildhall in the heart of Coventry.
Get hands on and try out a new craft hosted by our two experienced willow weavers who will guide you through every step. All materials and equipment supplied.
Join the Guildhall Tudor’s in the medieval kitchen to explore live demonstrations and find out the fascinating world of Tudor medicine. Explore a Tudor herb chest and it’s uses.
Children’s craft and a family friendly trail will also be available.
We look forward to welcoming you to St Mary’s Guildhall, the hidden historic gem in the heart of Coventry City Centre. Discover 700 years of power, partying and propaganda in a unique historical setting within Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter.
Please note: If you have an eligible and active Go CV or Go CV+ card, you are entitled to discounted or free entry. Please book your tickets in advance in person at St Mary’s Guildhall or purchase in person on your day of visit*.
*Subject to availability. Please note proof of valid GO CV or GO CV + card membership is required at point of sale and entry. The Go CV card is a free scheme for Coventry residents. Further details regarding Go CV can be found at go-cv.co.uk.
Join the Guildhall Tudor’s in the medieval kitchen to explore live demonstrations and find out about different kinds of Tudor food.
Children’s craft and a family friendly trail will also be available.
We look forward to welcoming you to St Mary’s Guildhall, the hidden historic gem in the heart of Coventry City Centre. Discover 700 years of power, partying and propaganda in a unique historical setting within Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter.
Please note: If you have an eligible and active Go CV or Go CV+ card, you are entitled to discounted or free entry. Please book your tickets in advance in person at St Mary’s Guildhall or purchase in person on your day of visit*.
*Subject to availability. Please note proof of valid GO CV or GO CV + card membership is required at point of sale and entry. The Go CV card is a free scheme for Coventry residents. Further details regarding Go CV can be found at go-cv.co.uk.
Join us throughout the summer holidays for family friendly activities such as a children’s trail and summer themed crafts.
We look forward to welcoming you to St Mary’s Guildhall, the hidden historic gem in the heart of Coventry City Centre. Discover 700 years of power, partying and propaganda in a unique historical setting within Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter.
Please note: If you have an eligible and active Go CV or Go CV+ card, you are entitled to discounted or free entry. Please book your tickets in advance in person at St Mary’s Guildhall or purchase in person on your day of visit*.
Ghost Stories and Tudor Superstitions Tour 21st October
Embark on a captivating journey through seven centuries of history at St Mary’s Guildhall, a prominent haunted venue in Coventry.
On October 21st visitors can hear tales of paranormal phenomena and captivating folklore in the stunning and atmospheric building.
Discover the newly unveiled medieval kitchen, where the Guildhall’s Tudor guide will transport you back in time with their narratives of grime and punishment. Find out what a tussy mussy was and delve into the intricacies of superstitions designed to ward off evil. Learn about macabre punishments prevalent during that bygone era such as the ‘scold’s bridle’ and don’t miss the opportunity to come face-to-face with ‘WhatsIt,’ the real life ‘ghost owl,’ previously believed to embody the symbolism of death.
Walking in the footsteps of historical figures such as Mary Queen of Scots and Frederick Douglass, allow our guided ghost stories tour to immerse you in centuries of enthralling history that unfolded in Coventry.
The year is 1895. You have been invited to Christmas Dinner at St Mary’s Guildhall in the heart of Coventry, but, just before it begins, the festivities are disturbed. You are to be visited by the spirit of one who died that very night. Your job is to figure out who killed them, and why, before you see the bloody business carried out before your very eyes!
Murder mystery ticket includes:
Arrival drink.
A 3 Course set meal. Click here to view menu.
Murder mystery entertainment.
Finish with Tea/Coffee & Mince Pies.
Please note the arrival time for this event is 7pm with dinner being served at 7:45pm.
Tickets for this event are non-refundable and non-transferable.
This event is strictly 18+ and ID may be required.
Visit this hidden medieval gem for a free Open Day. Experience life and work in the 1540s and explore the working medieval garden. Refreshments available.
Join us on Dec 4th and 12th at St Mary’s Guildhall and step into the past this holiday season with Scrooge’s Spirit: A Festive Journey Through Dickensian Coventry 🎩
Visit St Mary’s Guildhall for a captivating one-man performance of “A Christmas Carol” and Witness Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation in this 45 minute 1 man show as you immerse yourself in the timeless tale. Plus discover the enchanting world of Charles Dickens and Coventry with historical context to enrich your experience.
A glass of mulled wine and a mince pie is included and perfectly complements your theatrical journey into the festive spirit. Tickets also include 30 minutes after the show for visitors to explore the guildhall. Shows are available at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
Visit this hidden medieval gem for a free Open Day. Experience life and work in the 1540s and explore the working medieval garden. Refreshments available.
We’re Underground Lights, a community theatre company working with adults experiencing mental health distress and/or homelessness in Coventry and the surrounding area. To find out more about our work please visit: Underground Lights | Theatre has the power to change lives.
This term we have had the fantastic opportunity to work in St Mary’s Guildhall. We’re excited to invite you to our Open Mic performance; members have been creating some wonderful pieces inspired by the building and its history to perform at the Open Mic.
There will be poems created in association with Indie, songs, including an original piece created with Wes, stained glass paintings and some drama performances created with Hayley based on characters that may have lived or worked in the building.
Come and hear the stories of Coventry residents of the 1860s and how they survived the crisis affecting the ribbon industry.
Our researchers will reveal the stories of: John Cash, ribbon manufacturer; Charles Bray, ribbon manufacturer and host of the Rosehill Circle; Thomas Stevens, inventor of the Stevengraph; Lizzy Stuart, singer of Scottish songs – and wearer of ribbons.
Charterhouse will open on May bank holiday weekends, Sundays and Mondays, for family activities, Maypole dancing on Monday 6 May, pop-up cafe from Triumph Brewhouse. Come and enjoy our beautiful house and garden – free annual pass when you buy a ticket for the house and gardens, free parking when you visit the house.
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Coventry. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Coldplay at St Mary’s Guildhall bathed in a lush, floral display dedicated to spring.
*Please note that this is a third party event run by Fever.
🌷 Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Coventry. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Hans Zimmer at St Mary’s Guildhall bathed in a lush, floral display dedicated to spring.
*Please note this a third party event run by Fever
Celebrate May the Tudor way!
Experience Tudor May Day merriment by joining us to celebrate the end of winter and welcoming the renewal of new life and the return of warmth and sunlight (hopefully!)
May day was an important festival for the Tudors, rooted in tradition, it was seen as the first day of summer and was a time to make merry with much feasting and dancing. Nature was celebrated with flowers collected and garlands made symbolising fertility and rebirth.
Join the Guildhall Tudor’s in our Medieval Kitchen from Monday 27th May- Friday 31st May to find out all about the Tudor May Day celebrations and make your own willow crown to mark the joy of the new season.
Throughout the week there will also be a trail to discover the green men throughout the building, decipher their meaning and collect a prize! There will also be an opportunity to make your own pipe cleaner flower bouquets and green men masks for the perfect family friendly day out.
Enjoy a night for gin tasting and live music at Tales of Tea starting at 7pm on the 21st June.
Come and experience a special evening under the historic vaulted ceilings of the Tales of Tea restaurant located in the spectacular Undercroft at St Mary’s Guildhall.
Experience and taste locally soured gin with a historic twist in conjunction with The Warwick Gin Company accompanied by live vintage, swing and jazz music from Jess Hudson (member of the UK’s leading Wartime act, The D-Day Darlings.)
Tickets for The Tales of Tea Gin Tasting Experience night include:
A welcome Drink
Introduction and talk through the gin making process.
7 tastings including inspiration behind the gins and serve suggestions.
3 further drinks of the customer choice from The Warwickshire Gin Company.
Small selection of nibbles per table.
Q&A with the Warwickshire Gin Company.
Plus, the Tales of Tea bar will be open to enjoy additional drinks and music until 11pm.*
Visitors on this special combined tour will have the chance to marvel at two of Europe’s most remarkable tapestries and uncover centuries of captivating history.
Situated in the vibrant heart of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter, St Mary’s Guildhall is inviting guests to embark on a journey through seven centuries of rich history with its immersive history-inspired experience – the Tale of Two Tapestries.
The 1 hour and 15 minute guided tour combines a visit to St Mary’s Guildhall Coventry and the world-famous Coventry Cathedral, offering a unique opportunity to discover the rich history of two extraordinary tapestries: the largest tapestry in Europe located in Coventry Cathedral, and the Coventry Tapestry, the oldest tapestry still in its original place after 500 years.
Explore the intricate craftwork and vibrant colours which have stood the test of time, with expert guides revealing enchanting stories woven into the fabric of the two masterpieces, as well as their historical and spiritual significance.
Do The Write Thing presents, Nelly-A Folk Musical.
Twenty years on from his published biography, writer Graham Hopkins finally gets his Nelly – A Folk Musical onto the stage!
In Restoration England, Nell Gwynne became the most famous woman alive. Theatre is all about storytelling. Folk music is all about storytelling. And Nell Gwynne-what a story! Born into poverty the young Nelly was a cinder girl, a fish hawker, an orange seller but became the leading comedy actress of her day.
She is perhaps best known to history as the mistress of Charles II. But is really known to us because she was funny. Samuel Pepys called her “pretty witty Nell”. Playwrights, poets and politicians – the sharpest minds courted her and were part of her “merry gang”.
Hopkins brought together some of the folk world’s best songwriters, Jo Freya, Robb Johnson (“An English original”, The Guardian), Reg Meuross (“one of the finest singer-songwriters this country has produced” BBC Radio 2), Lucy Ward (“impressive and original”, The Guardian), Boff Whalley (ex-Chumbawamba), and Dave Wilson (Winter Wilson – “Special” RnR Magazine) to create 19 belting songs which punctuate this story of a remarkable woman in a fascinating time – the king restored to the throne, plague, Great Fire, and plots galore.
This is a colourful story, funny and moving, performed by actors Emily Jane Brooks (Nelly) and Conor Lynam (Charles II and all male roles.)
Dive into Coventry’s rich tapestry of history with our unique Big Weave craft sessions.
This is your chance to explore the art of weaving while unravelling the stories woven into Coventry’s fabric. Join us for a series of hands-on sessions at St Mary’s Guildhall, where you’ll contribute to a modern masterpiece inspired by the iconic Coventry Tapestry.
Save the dates: March 25, April 5, and April 6, and let’s weave together memories of Coventry’s past into a vibrant present!
The Big Weave is a project within the St Mary’s Guildhall Community grant fund, which is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund thanks to National Lottery players and this activity is included within the standard visitor entry price.
Join our expert volunteers of Charterhouse at Easter. Our experienced volunteer guides will take you on a tour of the building and gardens. Find out about the amazing history of this building then enjoy the different activities that will be available over the Easter period. Every Saturday there will be live music in the gardens and activities for all the family.
This ticket includes general admission to the house and gardens and an annual pass to visit Charterhouse.
Come and weave with us in the Great Hall!
Join a group of artist-makers in the creation of a vibrant new woven artwork inspired by the medieval Coventry Tapestry. No previous weaving experience needed – we will share a few simple skills and you will be weaving in no time!
All ages and abilities can take part. Don’t miss this chance to weave in your thread!
There is also expert help on hand with volunteers from The Weavers’ Workshop and Coventry Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers to show you how to use weaving sticks and peg looms.
Join us On March 12th 2024 at St. Mary’s Guildhall for an uplifting evening with the combined musical forces from the University of Warwick.
Handel’s Dixit Dominus, the setting of Psalm 110, is widely considered oen of the most challenging pieces of music he wrote for choir and orchestra. Current student Nick Raptakis will also have one of his recent pieces, Virus performed, alongside music by Elgar and Finnish composer Rautavaara.
The University of Warwick Chamber Choir and Festival Orchestra are two student ensembles who pride themselves in performing challenging music to a high standard, whilst maintaining an ethos of friendliness and fun.
Directed by Music Centre conductors Tom Newall and Suzzie Vango, their wide-ranging repertoire spans sacred, secular, folk and popular music, performing everything from Byrd and Handel to Cole Porter. They have performed in a variety of locations, both in Warwickshire and further afield, with annual tour destinations including: Italy, Spain, Germany, Ireland, Belgium and France, with a performance by the Chamber Choir during their Italy tour in the Milan Duomo in 2022.
Warwick Festival Orchestra was founded by students and they have staged a number of orchestral projects, most recently a performance of Sibelius Symphony No. 2 under the direction of student conductor Han Zhao.
Join us at St Mary’s Guildhall for an afternoon of music with musical trio ‘Ypotryll’.
Ypotryll, whose name comes from medieval bestiary, a medieval book of beasts, specialise in medieval musical.
Enjoy an hour-long performance in the spectacular Great Hall, which weaves singing, conversation and performance with instruments which you can also see used by our choir of angels in the spectacular roof carvings.
Included in our normal entry price this is an hour-long event combining authentic music with an opportunity to learn more about the instruments of the time.
Discover the enchanting world of Fairy Folk and Fearless Knights this Easter at St Mary’s Guildhall. Embark on an exciting Fairy Door Trail throughout the historic Guildhall, where visitors of all ages can unravel clues and seek out hidden fairy doors.
Join the adventure of the ‘Fairy Door Trail’ daily throughout the Easter break, situated in the historic Cathedral Quarter on Bayley Lane.
Indulge your creative side with our children’s craft activities, where you can fashion delightful fairy and knight peg dolls, and unleash your artistic flair decorating knight’s shields.
For families seeking even more thrills, immerse yourselves in Knight School every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Our resident knight will train aspiring warriors in traditional swordplay and strategic defense against mythical beasts. Sessions at 10am, 11:30am, and 2:30pm.
Step back in time with our specially-curated Tudor living history experience days, occurring each Monday and Friday of the Easter holidays from 10am to 4pm in the Medieval Kitchen. Delve into tales of both benevolent and mischievous fairies, then try your hand at crafting an enchanting fairy plate as an offering. Plus, don’t miss the captivating butter churning demonstration.
Please join us for the unveiling of Coventry’s own AIDS Memorial Quilt at St Mary’s Guildhall, commissioned by Coventry Pride with funding from Public Health. The unveiling will be accompanied by a talk about the significance of the quilt, and a zine making workshop led by Coventry Queer Writers.
Doors will open at 17:50, for a start time of 18:00.
The Cover Up Quilts Project is a community arts and education project conceived by Birmingham based artist, HIV activist and founder of the Birmingham AIDS and HIV memorial (BAHM), Garry Jones. The project is inspired by the NAMES project AIDS memorial quilt which began in San Francisco in 1985 with the aim of celebrating the lives of those lost to AIDS related causes. It rose to become the largest community folk art project in the world. The Cover Up Quilts Project has brought together 40 organisations and community groups to commemorate individuals and organisations associated with HIV/AIDS as well as important milestones in the 40 years since the first UK HIV diagnosis. Each group was paired with a local artist to realise their vision and produce a quilt panel. As well as producing the panels, the artist workshops served as an opportunity for education and to discuss and normalise conversations around HIV/ AIDS.
You are cordially invited to join us for a special wedding showcase at the historic St Mary’s Guildhall.
Join us for reception drinks and a sample of our exquisite canapés as we embark on a tailored tour
of our idyllic wedding venue. We will show you how you can craft a bespoke experience for your
special day, discussing unique packages that will make your celebration truly unforgettable.
To schedule a personalised appointment, please email our dedicated Wedding Team at
weddings@noordinaryhospitality.com and we will arrange a time that works for you.
We look forward to sharing the magic of St Mary’s Guildhall with you.
Home Educators are invited to visit St Mary’s Guildhall to experience hands-on history-based activities and workshops. This event is themed around Tudor Medicine and Illness.
Led by a costumed facilitator, groups will spend 2 hours learning about Tudor life.
Activities included in the day:
Make a ‘Tussy Mussy’.
Find out about Tudor illness and medical theory.
Explore herbs and Tudor cures in the Medieval Kitchen.
Explore Tudor superstitions.
Tour of the Guildhall.
Plant your own herb seed to take home and grow.
What age range is this suitable for?
Although all home educating families are welcome to this specially crafted event, the main target age group is children of primary school ages (5-11).
St Mary’s Guildhall will be open to the public and private tours during this event, however there will be a reduced amount of tickets and there will not be any other school groups visiting at this time.
A limited number of sensory bags and ear defenders can be requested at Reception and a quiet resting space will be available throughout the day.
Under 4’s and one accompanying adult can attend for free but must be accompanying one full paying child ticket.
Please be aware that some activities in this workshop include touching herbs and soil.
Join us to welcome in Spring this February half term. Join in our enchanting daily ‘Power to the Flower’ family-friendly trail at St Mary’s Guildhall and embark on a delightful quest to uncover the beauty of spring flowers scattered throughout the venue.
Engage in daily children’s craft activities and immerse yourself in the world of Tudors in the medieval kitchen, helping to prepare for the upcoming Spring festivities. (Tudors are available daily during the first seven days of half term (10th to 16th Feb), from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.)
Activities include:
Cleaning the Tudor Way: Experience Tudor spring cleaning first hand. Dive into the past and help us clean pewter with ground eggshells and dust with goose wings.
Tudor Food Traditions: Step into the midst of Lent with the Tudors and discover their unique traditions around food. As they utilize the last of their winter resources, join in the countdown to their Easter feast. Participate in candying primroses and decorating eggs as they eagerly prepare for their Easter celebrations.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with history and embrace the spirit of spring. See you there!
After The End Of History: Contemporary Working-Class Photography 1989 – 2024
• Friday 29 March – Monday 16 June 2024
• 10am – 4pm
• Drop in | FREE
Hayward Gallery Touring’s ‘After the End of History’ will bring together working class artists who use photography to explore the nuances of working class life in all its diversity.
The exhibition, curated by Johnny Pitts , explores the challenges, beauty and diversity of contemporary working-class life.
The collection marks 35 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall and the symbolic end of Communism, with the weakening of the Soviet Union prompting economist Francis Fukuyama’s widely debated claim that Western Liberal Democracy represented an ideal form of government.
https://www.theherbert.org/whats-on/1779/after-the-end-of-history-contemporary-working-class-photography-1989-2024
Our spooky and delicious afternoon tea is perfect for adults and children who want to celebrate Halloween in style. Our hotel’s rich history adds to the eerie atmosphere of the occasion and our actors will put on fantastically spooky show whilst you enjoy a Halloween-themed menu consisting of sweet and savoury treats.
So why not bring your friends or family to enjoy our Halloween Afternoon Tea this October? Book your table now and get ready for a spooktacular time at our historic hotel!
Our spooky and delicious afternoon tea is perfect for adults and children who want to celebrate Halloween in style. Our hotel’s rich history adds to the eerie atmosphere of the occasion and our actors will put on fantastically spooky show whilst you enjoy a Halloween-themed menu consisting of sweet and savoury treats.
So why not bring your friends or family to enjoy our Halloween Afternoon Tea this October? Book your table now and get ready for a spooktacular time at our historic hotel!
Our spooky and delicious afternoon tea is perfect for adults and children who want to celebrate Halloween in style. Our hotel’s rich history adds to the eerie atmosphere of the occasion and our actors will put on fantastically spooky show whilst you enjoy a Halloween-themed menu consisting of sweet and savoury treats.
So why not bring your friends or family to enjoy our Halloween Afternoon Tea this October? Book your table now and get ready for a spooktacular time at our historic hotel!
The Big Dippy Birthday Bash!
• Wednesday 14 February
• 10.00am – 4.00pm
• Varied with some FREE activities | More information coming soon
To celebrate Dippy, the Nation’s Favourite Dinosaurs, being at the Herbert for 1 year, we are throwing a BIG Dippy Birthday Bash.
There will be multiple activities available throughout the day to join in with, plus special guests from the world of wild learning! Fossil handling, curator talks, craft activities and exciting performances, there will be plenty to keep your whole family entertained!
Oh… and did we mention there will be cake?!
https://www.theherbert.org/whats-on/1789/the-big-dippy-birthday-bash
CASE: Coventry Art Societies Exhibition
• 2 February – 3 March
• 10am – 4pm
• Drop in | FREE
A superb and varied exhibition of artwork by members of art societies and art groups in Coventry and Warwickshire, to include paintings, sculpture, ceramics and much more.
Most work is for sale.
https://www.theherbert.org/whats-on/1778/case-coventry-art-societies-exhibition
Coventry Tapestry Tour at St Mary’s Guildhall.
Join us for a glass of warming mulled cider in our stunning medieval Kitchen followed by a specialist guided talk about the Coventry Tapestry which is located with St Mary’s Guildhall’s Great Hall.
Believed to the be the oldest tapestry still in situ for where it was made in the UK. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through an exploration of the 500-year-old masterpiece, shedding light on its historical significance and the compelling stories woven into its fabric. Gain a deeper understanding of the key figures depicted in the tapestry and their rich narratives, as you embark on a journey through time within the walls of St Mary’s Guildhall.
Tickets available at 11.00/12.00/2.00/3.00. Advance booking strongly recommended due to capacity. The Tapestry Tour is expected to take around 45 minutes with additional time to explore the building after.
Non alcoholic mulled cider substitute also available. Mulled cider is for visitors 18+ only.