Coventry was chosen as UK City of Culture 2021 and now endeavours to build on a record year of visitors and a boost to the tourism economy, focused on the legacy for tourism, heritage and culture in our city.
As the City of Culture, Coventry saw 8.2 million visitors throughout the year. The new-look city centre was also unveiled putting a spotlight back on Broadgate, Cathedral Lanes and the iconic 900-year-old legend, Lady Godiva. All of which created a great atmosphere for many of the calendar events across the City of Culture programme.
St Mary’s Guildhall, Charterhouse and Coombe Abbey are just some examples of our architecture, steeped in history that have become modern-day venues. Coventry Cathedral also captures the unique story of Coventry, which was celebrated throughout our year as City of Culture.
We also acted as a host city for 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, the Rugby League World Cup and International Children’s Games.
Music continues to be a major feature of our culture here, having hosted the MOBO Awards in 2021 and Radio 1's Big Weekend in May 2022. Major artists including Harry Styles and Arctic Monkeys have also performed here in Coventry at the CBS Arena in 2023.
A 10-year strategic vision from Culture Works has been launched supported by Coventry University & University of Warwick and leaders from the cultural, creative and wider sectors in the city as part of the programme.