Belgrade Theatre
Britain's first post-war civic theatre, where modern architecture meets cultural ambition in Coventry's rebuilt city centre.
A landmark post-war civic theatre in Coventry's city centre, the Belgrade Theatre opened in 1958 as Britain's first purpose-built civic theatre following World War II. Named after Belgrade, Yugoslavia's gift of timber used in its construction, this Grade II listed building features two performance spaces: the main auditorium seating 858 and the intimate B2 studio with 250–300 seats. Known for innovative productions and a pivotal role in Coventry's cultural renaissance, the theatre underwent extensive refurbishment in 2005–2007 and remains one of Britain's largest regional producing theatres.
A brief summary to Belgrade Theatre
- Belgrade Square, Corporation St, Coventry, Coventry, CV1 1GS, GB
- +442476553055
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the programme in advance; the Belgrade produces a mix of in-house productions, touring shows, and pantomimes. Many performances sell out, particularly during the festive season and major productions.
- Arrive early to explore the refurbished public foyers and café. The building's modernist design and heritage features are worth appreciating before the performance begins.
- Consider booking for B2 if you prefer intimate theatre experiences or experimental work; the main stage offers a more traditional, larger-scale theatrical experience.
- The theatre is centrally located near Coventry Cathedral and other city-centre attractions, making it easy to combine with a broader cultural visit to the city.
- Participate in Theatre in Education programmes or workshops if visiting with young people; the Belgrade has a 50-year legacy of using drama for educational and social engagement.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Coventry Railway Station is approximately 1.2 kilometres south of the theatre. From the station, local buses serve the city centre frequently; the journey takes 10–15 minutes depending on the route. Alternatively, the walk takes approximately 20–25 minutes through the city centre. Buses run regularly throughout the day and evening, with evening services available for theatre-goers.
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Driving and Parking
The Belgrade is located in Coventry's city centre on Belgrade Square. Several car parks are within walking distance: the Coventry Point car park is approximately 150 metres away, and the Millennium Place car park is approximately 300 metres away. Both offer standard hourly rates and evening/weekend discounts. On-street parking is limited in the immediate area due to city-centre restrictions.
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Walking from City Centre
If arriving in Coventry city centre by any means, the Belgrade is easily reached on foot. From Coventry Cathedral (approximately 400 metres north), follow signs toward Belgrade Square. The walk is straightforward through pedestrianised shopping areas and takes approximately 8–10 minutes. The theatre's prominent position on Belgrade Square makes it clearly visible and accessible.
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Taxi and Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services can drop passengers directly at Belgrade Square or nearby Corporation Street. Journey times from Coventry Railway Station are typically 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £8–15 depending on time of day and demand.
Belgrade Theatre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Belgrade Theatre
A Monument to Post-War Renewal
When the Belgrade Theatre opened on 27 March 1958, it represented far more than a new building. It was Britain's first purpose-built civic theatre constructed after World War II, a bold statement of cultural ambition and civic recovery. Coventry had been devastated by the Blitz in 1940, with large swathes of the medieval city centre destroyed. In the years following, the City Council embarked on an ambitious reconstruction programme, and the theatre became a symbol of optimism alongside the newly rebuilt Coventry Cathedral. Officially opened by the Duchess of Kent in a ceremony attended by prominent cultural figures including Sir Kenneth Clark and Sam Wanamaker, the Belgrade announced to the world that Coventry was not merely rebuilding—it was reimagining itself as a modern, culturally vibrant city. The theatre's name carries its own story of international friendship. In 1952, Belgrade, Yugoslavia (now Serbia), pledged a substantial gift of beech timber to be used in the theatre's auditorium construction. This generous gesture, rooted in post-war solidarity and Coventry's Eastern European connections, became the theatre's namesake. The timber was incorporated into the building's interior, making the Belgrade a physical embodiment of cross-border cultural cooperation during a time of global reconstruction.Architectural Innovation and Design Vision
Designed by Arthur Ling, the City Architect, the Belgrade broke new ground in theatre design. Its contemporary modernist aesthetic deliberately contrasted with the gilded, ornate theatres of earlier eras. Theatre critic Kenneth Tynan captured this revolutionary spirit, writing: "Enter most theatres, and you enter the gilded, cupidacious past. Enter this one, and you are surrounded by the future." The building's clean lines, functional spaces, and forward-thinking layout reflected the progressive principles of post-war civic planning. The main auditorium, with its traditional proscenium arch, seats 858 across two tiers and was engineered with innovative stage lighting and machinery—features that had been lacking in many theatres of the era. Beyond the auditorium, the Belgrade incorporated several groundbreaking features. The extensive public foyers created welcoming communal spaces, while a block of small flats for actors—an innovation at the time—acknowledged the practical needs of a resident theatre company. The building's elevation facing Corporation Street, with its shops and integrated design, drew inspiration from contemporary civic architecture, including the Festival Hall, the only major arts building constructed in Britain since 1939.A Catalyst for British Theatre
The Belgrade's opening marked the beginning of a boom in British theatre construction that would last until the late 1970s. Under its first director, Bryan Bailey, the theatre established a resident company and quickly gained a reputation for innovative and ambitious programming. The Belgrade became the launching pad for significant theatrical works, most notably the premieres of Arnold Wesker's "Wesker trilogy"—Chicken Soup with Barley, Roots, and I'm Talking About Jerusalem—plays that explored working-class life and social themes with unprecedented depth. Early company members included names who would become theatrical legends: Trevor Nunn, Ian McKellen, Joan Plowright, Michael Crawford, Frank Finlay, and Leonard Rossiter. Throughout the 1970s and beyond, the theatre maintained its commitment to new work and community engagement. In 1978, it revived the medieval Coventry Mystery Plays, performing biblical narratives in the ruins of the Old Cathedral—a powerful connection between contemporary theatre and Coventry's medieval heritage. The theatre also pioneered Theatre in Education (TiE), establishing in 1965 a company dedicated to using drama as a tool for exploring cultural, social, political, and moral issues with young people across the region.Expansion and Modern Refurbishment
By the early 2000s, the Belgrade faced the challenge of serving contemporary audiences while preserving its historic character. A major £14 million capital development project, completed in 2007, transformed the theatre while respecting its Grade II listed status. Designed by Stanton Williams Architects, the refurbishment included the addition of B2, a flexible second performance space seating 250–300, allowing the theatre to host everything from large-scale touring productions to experimental new works and intimate community theatre. The project also modernised the café and restaurant, expanded public spaces, and strengthened the theatre's connection to Belgrade Square and the surrounding city centre. The refurbishment was completed just in time for the theatre to play a pivotal role in Coventry's successful bid to become UK City of Culture 2021. During that landmark year, the Belgrade hosted an ambitious programme of productions, including "Keys," a project inspired by the story of Ira Aldridge, the first person of colour to manage a British theatre when he was given the keys of the Coventry Theatre in 1828—a historical connection that underscored the theatre's ongoing commitment to diversity and cultural significance.Cultural Legacy and Civic Significance
The Belgrade Theatre stands as a testament to the transformative power of public investment in the arts. It emerged from a moment when theatre was being reconceived not as a commercial enterprise but as a public amenity—akin to libraries and museums—and a vehicle for cultural citizenship. The Local Government Act of 1948 had given councils like Coventry the power to subsidise the performing arts, and the Arts Council of Great Britain, founded in 1945, provided matching support. This partnership between local and national government created the conditions for the Belgrade's existence and set a precedent for publicly funded cultural institutions across Britain. Today, the Belgrade remains one of Britain's largest regional producing theatres, maintaining a dual role as both a professional producing house and a community cultural hub. Its Grade II listed status recognises its architectural and historical importance, while its continued programming demonstrates its relevance to contemporary audiences. The theatre's journey from post-war symbol to modern cultural institution reflects Coventry's own transformation—from a city marked by wartime devastation to a vibrant centre of arts, culture, and civic pride.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sir Frank Whittle
0.4 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Council House
0.5 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Bedworth Water Tower
7.7 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Westmorland Drive
12.3 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
The Randolph Turpin Statue
15.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of British boxing champion Randolph Turpin with this striking bronze statue in Warwick’s historic Market Square.
Hob's Moat
18.8 km
Medieval moat and woodland escape preserving Solihull's Norman heritage
Earl Shilton Castle
23.5 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Stratford Armouries
24.8 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Stratford-upon-Avon at Stratford Armouries, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences.
Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours
25.6 km
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Digbeth Arena
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Discover the heart of Birmingham's cultural scene at Digbeth Arena, a vibrant events venue for live music and artistic expression.
Factory Works
26.1 km
Discover Birmingham's Factory Works, a vibrant events venue in the historic Custard Factory, showcasing the best of local art and culture.
Custard Factory
26.1 km
Explore the Custard Factory - Birmingham's creative hub of art, culture, and unique shopping experiences.
Digbeth Art Space
26.1 km
Discover the vibrant creativity at Digbeth Art Space, Birmingham's premier art gallery showcasing local talent and innovative exhibitions.
The Floodgate
26.2 km
Discover The Floodgate in Birmingham for a unique blend of drinks, indoor sports, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Drayton Manor Resort
26.3 km
Discover thrilling rides, family attractions, and a delightful zoo at Drayton Manor Resort, the perfect destination for fun-loving tourists in Tamworth.
Unmissable attractions to see
St John the Baptist Church
0.1 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval gem, St John the Baptist Church, rich in history, Gothic artistry, and tales from England’s turbulent past.
Old grammar school
0.2 km
Step into Coventry’s medieval past at the beautifully restored Old Grammar School, a heritage landmark beside the Transport Museum.
Lady Godiva
0.3 km
Discover the iconic Lady Godiva statue in Coventry, a bronze tribute to courage, compassion, and the city’s resilient spirit.
Coventry Market
0.3 km
Coventry Market: A historic and vibrant city centre market offering fresh produce, international flavors, and artisan goods since 1958.
New Buildings
0.3 km
Discover Coventry’s New Buildings area, where modern architecture meets rich heritage in England’s vibrant West Midlands city.
Coventry Transport Museum
0.3 km
Explore the world’s largest public collection of British vehicles and experience Coventry’s rich transport heritage up close.
Millennium Place
0.3 km
Explore Coventry’s rich automotive heritage and marvel at record-breaking vehicles in a vibrant city-centre museum at Millennium Place.
Holy Trinity Coventry
0.4 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval marvel with its soaring spire, stunning Doom painting, and rich history preserved through centuries.
Priory Visitor Centre
0.4 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval roots and the beautifully preserved priory Undercrofts at this vibrant city centre heritage hub.
Golden Cross
0.4 km
Discover the Golden Cross in Coventry, a charming pub offering a delightful gluten-free dining experience and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Fords Hospital Alms House
0.4 km
Discover Coventry’s beautifully preserved Tudor almshouse, a serene 16th-century timber-framed refuge with rich history and enduring charm.
Bull Yard
0.4 km
Bull Yard is Coventry’s vibrant pedestrian precinct blending post-war heritage with lively retail, dining, and cultural experiences in the city centre.
Lady Herbert's Gardens
0.4 km
A serene city-centre garden blending medieval heritage with floral beauty, created as a heartfelt memorial in 1930s Coventry.
Coventry Cathedral
0.5 km
Where medieval ruins meet modern art—a powerful symbol of war’s cost and the enduring hope for peace and reconciliation.
St Mary's Guildhall
0.5 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval jewel where kings ruled, queens were imprisoned, and history lives through stunning tapestries and grand halls.
Essential places to dine
Oak Room Restaurant
7.0 km
Award-winning fine dining in a historic 17th-century manor with classic British dishes, flambé specialties, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Cross
7.9 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic Kenilworth inn, blending classic British flavors with modern elegance and local ingredients.
The Quicken Tree
8.7 km
A cozy British restaurant in Coventry offering hearty meals, quirky decor, and a family-friendly atmosphere near scenic lakes and woodlands.
Saxon Mill Warwick
12.8 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Warwick blending traditional mill charm with modern British cuisine and scenic views.
La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
13.1 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in an elegant, welcoming setting at the heart of Leamington Spa’s Parade.
Hayashi Japanese Restaurant
13.1 km
Authentic Japanese flavors served fresh in a family-friendly, modern setting at the heart of Leamington Spa.
Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro
13.1 km
Experience authentic French bistro charm and superb British steaks in the heart of Leamington Spa at Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro.
Habano Restaurant & Wine Bar
13.2 km
A vibrant Pan-Latin dining experience with fresh Cuban and Spanish flavors, friendly service, and a lively wine bar in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Star & Garter
13.3 km
A stylish gastropub in Leamington Spa blending traditional charm with modern dining and lively social vibes.
Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
13.3 km
Experience vibrant Thai flavors and stylish sharing plates in the heart of Leamington Spa’s Royal Priors Shopping Centre.
Villa Capri Ristorante Italiano & Cocktail Lounge
13.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and crafted cocktails in a vibrant Capri-inspired setting in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Côte Leamington Spa
13.4 km
Experience modern French cuisine and warm brasserie charm in the heart of Leamington Spa’s historic town centre.
The Stag at Offchurch
13.6 km
Historic 16th-century thatched pub offering refined British and European dining in the scenic village of Offchurch near Leamington Spa.
Eleven
13.9 km
An intimate, family-run French bistro in Leamington Spa offering classic dishes and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
The Moorings at Myton
14.4 km
A charming canal-side gastropub in Royal Leamington Spa, serving locally sourced English classics in a family- and dog-friendly setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Warwickshire Shopping Park
5.6 km
Coventry's diverse shopping destination with major retailers, dining, and modern amenities.
Ropewalk Shopping Centre
12.8 km
A vibrant, accessible shopping hub in Nuneaton offering diverse stores, eateries, and community events in a modern indoor setting.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
13.2 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Revolve
13.2 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Life of Mou
13.3 km
Discover Life of Mou, a warm and curated slow fashion boutique blending vintage charm and sustainable style in Leamington Spa.
Collective Home Store
13.3 km
Discover unique home and lifestyle accessories in Leamington Spa’s eclectic Collective Home Store, where style meets quality and quirkiness.
Royal Priors Shopping Centre
13.3 km
Leamington Spa’s premier indoor shopping centre with spacious malls, diverse stores, and convenient access in the town’s historic heart.
Cotswold Trading - Leamington Spa
13.3 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Lilac Rose
13.4 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Stone The Crows
13.4 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish homeware at Stone The Crows, a beloved Leamington Spa boutique known for unique finds and excellent service.
The Gift Company
14.5 km
Eclectic gifts and quality oak furniture blend tradition and style at Resorts World Birmingham’s vibrant gift shop.
Leamington Shopping Park
14.8 km
Discover a vibrant shopping destination with free parking, top brands, and a welcoming open-air environment in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Cloud 9
14.9 km
Discover handcrafted fair trade treasures at Cloud 9, Warwick’s boutique for ethical gifts and global artisan crafts.
Browsers
14.9 km
Discover unique gifts and charming keepsakes in the heart of historic Warwick at Browsers, your cozy local gift shop on Smith Street.
Trinkets & Treasures Ltd
14.9 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homewares in Warwick’s welcoming boutique, perfect for every special occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrace Bar
4.7 km
A vibrant campus cocktail bar with scenic Piazza views, live music, and student events at the heart of University of Warwick nightlife.
The Clarendon Leamington Spa
13.0 km
Lively sports bar and pub in Leamington Spa with live games, craft beers, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The White Horse
13.0 km
A charming blend of historic character and modern comfort, The White Horse offers classic British pub fare and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Bedford Street Bar
13.2 km
Lively grill and bar venue in Leamington Spa offering live jazz, classic British dishes, and a vibrant social atmosphere with heated outdoor seating.
The Fat Pug
13.3 km
Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
The Royal Pug
13.3 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Leamington Spa with great food, drinks, live entertainment, and a charming garden setting.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
13.4 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
The Drawing Board
13.4 km
Eclectic gastropub with vintage comics, gourmet bar food, and award-winning craft beers in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Boiler Room
13.8 km
An independent, quirky craft beer bar in Leamington Spa with artisan ales, lively music, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
The Micro Pug
14.2 km
A lively canal-side pub and coffee spot in Leamington Spa, blending great drinks, fresh food, and a buzzing social scene with scenic waterside charm.
The Wild Boar
14.3 km
A cozy Warwick pub blending traditional charm, hearty British fare, and well-kept real ales in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Pug
14.5 km
A historic Tudor pub in Warwick offering quirky charm, great drinks, dog-friendly warmth, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
The Old Coffee Tavern
15.1 km
Charming historic pub and boutique hotel in Warwick’s Old Square, blending cosy style, excellent food, and comfortable rooms in a central location.
The Eagle
15.1 km
A cozy, quirky cellar micro pub in Warwick serving expertly curated real ales and craft beers in an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
Rigsby's Cellar Bar
15.1 km
Cozy cellar charm meets heartfelt hospitality in Warwick’s intimate and quirky Rigsby's Cellar Bar.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
