Warwickshire’s hidden gems

St Mary’s Guildhall Coventry

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]lthough Coventry is famous for its Cathedral and its history, hidden just behind the old Cathedral is a much smaller, but equally as interesting building.

Whilst the original Cathedral was destroyed in the blitz, despite its close location, St Mary’s Guildhall is completely intact.  Built in 1342 it provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval life. It was originally a meeting place for merchants where ceremonies and banquets were held and now hosts weddings and other events as well as being a tourist attraction. Coventry’s Guildhall has a unique history of its own, as Mary Queen of Scots was once held prisoner there and it is thought to be the setting of one of local author George Eliot’s novels.

Photo: wikimedia.commons

It also houses the Coventry tapestry, one of the most impressive tapestries left in the country, and with these connections, the Guildhall holds an important place in Coventry’s history. A visit to this lesser known tourist attraction should definitely be made by anyone who wants to explore the history of Coventry.  This atmospheric medieval building is worlds away from Coventry’s high street and really allows you to take a step into the past.

This atmospheric medieval building is worlds away from Coventry’s high street and really allows you to take a step into the past.

Kenilworth Greenway walk

[dropcap]F[/dropcap]or anyone who wants to leave the bubble of Warwick campus, and escape for a while, a walk from campus to Kenilworth is ideal.  As campus is practically in the middle of the countryside it is easy to feel as though you are in the middle of nowhere within minutes!  The route follows a path that begins just near the Bluebell car park and passes the sport fields.  The walk takes about an hour one way and passes through beautiful wooded areas and fields.  The track is a bridleway which follows a former railway.  The railway was opened in 1884 and was vital in the transport of munitions during the war, when the tracks were removed though the railway was left to itself and overtime the track has become a haven for local wildlife, providing everyone with the chance to experience the surrounding area.  The Greenway is a brilliant location in itself and would be great for a picnic on a sunny day.  Otherwise you can walk through the Greenway in order to get to Kenilworth itself, and perhaps visit the famous Kenilworth castle.  Although there are some lovely walks on and around campus, the walk to Kenilworth Greenway feels like stepping out into the real world after spending a long time on campus, and it’s a brilliant place for a nice, peaceful walk.