St Mary's Guildhall

St Mary's Guildhall is one of the finest medieval guildhalls in England, and one of Coventry's most splendid and historic buildings.

St. Mary's Guildhall history

Standing in the heart of Coventry for over 650 years, St. Mary's Guildhall has witnessed events of both local and national importance during its long history.

The Guildhall served as the centre of King Henry VI's court during the Wars of the Roses and briefly as a prison to Mary, Queen of Scots. William Shakespeare is thought to have staged plays here, whilst writer George Eliot, who knew the hall well, used it as the setting for a scene in one of her novels.

Its kitchens have prepared rations for starving weavers, and grand banquets for city dignitaries and visiting monarchs. It has been the good-humoured starting point for the famous Godiva Processions and for centuries was the location of Coventry's annual mayor-making ceremony. Scarred during violent election riots and the Blitz of Coventry during the Second World War, the Guildhall has nevertheless survived the centuries, and continues to this day to welcome visitors from all over the world.

Visitor Information

The historic rooms of St Mary’s Guildhall provide a fascinating visitor experience for all ages, with precious collections and several centuries' worth of stories and ghostly legends, brought to life by our knowledgeable guides.

For details of opening times, and more information on visiting St. Mary's Guildhall, Coventry's best-kept medieval secret, please click on the link to the left. Admission Free

Events

We offer a varied programme of events each year, ranging from festive lunches and dinners, to live music and paranormal investigations. For details of forthcoming events at St. Mary's Guildhall, please view our What's On page.

Weddings, functions and meeting room hire

We can provide a selection of spectacular venues for your event, with a choice of distinctive rooms available for civil wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, private functions, conferences, seminars, and meetings.

Godiva's in the Undercroft

Godiva's is our popular cafe-restaurant, located in the atmospheric 14th century undercroft of St. Mary's Guildhall, offering a relaxed, historic setting for morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea. There is disabled access and staff will gladly assist with wheelchairs or baby buggies.

We are open from 10am to 3.30pm Monday to Friday, with hot lunches available between 12 noon and 2pm.

Follow the link to find out more about Godiva's in the Undercroft.

How to Find Us

The entrance to St Mary's Guildhall is on Bayley Lane, opposite the south porch of the ruins of St. Michael's, the 'old' Coventry Cathedral. Follow the link to the St Mary's Guildhall location map for more details.

We are just a short walk from city centre car parks, bus stops and Coventry Railway Station, whilst coaches may drop-off passengers at the foot of Bayley Lane. See the 'Getting Around Coventry' guide for more detailed information on travelling in the city.

Contact details

St. Mary's Guildhall
Bayley Lane
Coventry
CV1 5RN

Telephone: 024 7683 3328
Fax: 024 7683 3329
E-mail: mark.twissell@coventry.gov.uk