The Golden Cross – Coventry’s Historic Tudor Pub
Step into Coventry’s oldest pub, The Golden Cross, where Tudor charm meets hearty gluten-free fare and lively live music in a historic setting.
The Golden Cross in Coventry is one of the city’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1583. This Grade II* listed building features iconic Tudor architecture with jettied upper floors, exposed timber beams, and leaded glass windows. Renowned for its traditional British cuisine, extensive gluten-free menu, and lively live music events, it offers a warm, historic atmosphere in the heart of Coventry’s medieval quarter.
A brief summary to Golden Cross
- 8 Hay Ln, Coventry, CV1 5RF, GB
- +442476551855
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-11 pm
- Friday 11 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Local tips
- Try the traditional British dishes with gluten-free options, all freshly made on-site.
- Visit on Saturday evenings for live music performances downstairs.
- Admire the Tudor architectural details like the Dragon Beam and jettied upper floors.
- Enjoy a quiet drink upstairs if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.
- The pub is wheelchair accessible and offers a wide range of local and international ales and gins.
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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Bus
Take Coventry city centre buses stopping near Hay Lane; from the main bus station, the journey takes 10-15 minutes with frequent service. Tickets cost around £2-£3. Note that services reduce late evenings.
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Train
From Coventry railway station, a 20-minute walk through the city centre leads to The Golden Cross. Taxis are available outside the station for a 5-minute ride costing approximately £5-£7.
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Car
Driving to Hay Lane is possible but parking is limited in the medieval city centre. Nearby public car parks charge £1.50-£3 per hour. Expect busy traffic during peak hours.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Coventry city centre, The Golden Cross is accessible via a 5-15 minute walk on mostly flat, paved streets. Suitable for wheelchair users.
Golden Cross location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Golden Cross
A Timeless Tudor Landmark in Coventry
The Golden Cross stands proudly at 8 Hay Lane as one of Coventry’s most historic pubs, with origins tracing back to 1583. Its timber-framed structure and jettied upper floors are quintessential examples of Tudor architecture, showcasing exposed beams, decorative gables, and multi-paned casement windows. The pub’s corner entrance and distinctive Dragon Beam, which allows the upper floors to wrap around corners, highlight the craftsmanship of the post-medieval period. As a Grade II* listed building, it preserves the architectural heritage that survived Coventry’s wartime bombings, making it a rare and treasured relic in the city centre.Living History and Cultural Significance
Before becoming a public house around 1661, the site was once home to the Coventry Mint, linking it to the city’s rich economic history. The pub’s name likely derives from the nearby historic Coventry Cross, a monument symbolizing the city’s medieval prosperity. Over centuries, The Golden Cross has welcomed traders, locals, and visitors alike, serving as a vibrant social hub. Its proximity to other medieval landmarks like St Mary’s Guildhall situates it perfectly within Coventry’s heritage trail, offering visitors a tangible connection to the city’s past.Atmosphere and Interior Charm
Inside, the pub retains low ceilings and wooden interiors that create an inviting and cozy ambiance. The leaded glass windows cast a warm glow over the exposed timber beams, evoking a sense of stepping back in time. The traditional Tudor aesthetic is complemented by modern comforts, making it a congenial spot for both quiet drinks upstairs and lively gatherings downstairs. The Golden Cross balances historic charm with a welcoming vibe, appealing to history enthusiasts and casual pub-goers alike.Culinary Offerings and Inclusive Dining
The Golden Cross is celebrated for its traditional homemade British cuisine, prepared fresh on-site. It stands out for its comprehensive gluten-free menu, catering thoughtfully to dietary requirements by minimizing major allergens and offering dairy-free options. Alongside hearty meals, the pub serves a wide selection of real ales from local and international breweries, a curated gin collection including a monthly special, fine wines, ciders, and spirits. This dedication to quality and inclusivity makes it a favored dining destination in Coventry.Entertainment and Community Spirit
Live music is a staple at The Golden Cross, with performances every Saturday evening downstairs and an open mic night on Tuesdays. These events foster a lively atmosphere while preserving the pub’s historic character. Though it does not broadcast sports, the focus remains on convivial conversation, great drinks, and community engagement. The pub has also hosted literary figures and musicians over the years, cementing its role as a cultural venue within the city.A Welcoming Hub in Coventry’s Medieval Core
The Golden Cross offers more than just food and drink; it is a living piece of Coventry’s history, inviting visitors to experience the city’s medieval heritage firsthand. Whether you come for a pint, a gluten-free meal, or to admire the Tudor architecture, the pub provides a memorable setting steeped in tradition and warmth. Its central location and historic significance make it an essential stop for anyone exploring Coventry’s rich past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Council House
0.1 km
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Sir Frank Whittle
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Bedworth Water Tower
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The Randolph Turpin Statue
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Stratford Armouries
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Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours
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Digbeth Arena
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Factory Works
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Custard Factory
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Digbeth Art Space
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The Floodgate
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Drayton Manor Resort
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Unmissable attractions to see
St Mary's Guildhall
0.1 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval jewel where kings ruled, queens were imprisoned, and history lives through stunning tapestries and grand halls.
Holy Trinity Coventry
0.1 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval marvel with its soaring spire, stunning Doom painting, and rich history preserved through centuries.
Lady Godiva
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Discover the iconic Lady Godiva statue in Coventry, a bronze tribute to courage, compassion, and the city’s resilient spirit.
Drapers' Hall
0.1 km
Experience the rhythmic soul of Coventry at Drapers' Hall, a historic concert hall celebrated for its vibrant live music and stunning architecture.
Coventry Cathedral
0.1 km
Where medieval ruins meet modern art—a powerful symbol of war’s cost and the enduring hope for peace and reconciliation.
Priory Visitor Centre
0.1 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval roots and the beautifully preserved priory Undercrofts at this vibrant city centre heritage hub.
New Buildings
0.2 km
Discover Coventry’s New Buildings area, where modern architecture meets rich heritage in England’s vibrant West Midlands city.
Fords Hospital Alms House
0.2 km
Discover Coventry’s beautifully preserved Tudor almshouse, a serene 16th-century timber-framed refuge with rich history and enduring charm.
Bull Yard
0.3 km
Bull Yard is Coventry’s vibrant pedestrian precinct blending post-war heritage with lively retail, dining, and cultural experiences in the city centre.
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.
Old grammar school
0.3 km
Step into Coventry’s medieval past at the beautifully restored Old Grammar School, a heritage landmark beside the Transport Museum.
Coventry Market
0.4 km
Coventry Market: A historic and vibrant city centre market offering fresh produce, international flavors, and artisan goods since 1958.
Belgrade Theatre
0.4 km
Britain's first post-war civic theatre, where modern architecture meets cultural ambition in Coventry's rebuilt 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.
Essential places to dine
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7.3 km
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The Cross
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The Quicken Tree
9.1 km
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Saxon Mill Warwick
12.7 km
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La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
12.9 km
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Hayashi Japanese Restaurant
12.9 km
Authentic Japanese flavors served fresh in a family-friendly, modern setting at the heart of Leamington Spa.
Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro
12.9 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
13.0 km
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The Star & Garter
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Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
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Villa Capri Ristorante Italiano & Cocktail Lounge
13.2 km
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Côte Leamington Spa
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The Stag at Offchurch
13.3 km
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Eleven
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The Moorings at Myton
14.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Warwickshire Shopping Park
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Coventry's diverse shopping destination with major retailers, dining, and modern amenities.
Ropewalk Shopping Centre
12.9 km
A vibrant, accessible shopping hub in Nuneaton offering diverse stores, eateries, and community events in a modern indoor setting.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
13.0 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Revolve
13.0 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Life of Mou
13.1 km
Discover Life of Mou, a warm and curated slow fashion boutique blending vintage charm and sustainable style in Leamington Spa.
Collective Home Store
13.1 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
13.1 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
13.2 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Lilac Rose
13.2 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Stone The Crows
13.2 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish homeware at Stone The Crows, a beloved Leamington Spa boutique known for unique finds and excellent service.
Leamington Shopping Park
14.7 km
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Cloud 9
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Browsers
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Trinkets & Treasures Ltd
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The Gift Company
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrace Bar
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The Clarendon Leamington Spa
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The White Horse
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Bedford Street Bar
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The Fat Pug
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The Royal Pug
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Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
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The Drawing Board
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The Boiler Room
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The Micro Pug
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The Wild Boar
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The Black Pug
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The Old Coffee Tavern
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The Eagle
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Rigsby's Cellar Bar
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
