Lady Herbert's Gardens, Coventry
A serene historic garden in Coventry city centre blending medieval city walls with lush greenery and peaceful memorial landscapes.
Lady Herbert's Gardens is a historic ornamental garden located in Coventry city centre, created in the 1930s as a memorial to Florence Herbert. It features beautifully landscaped grounds built around the remains of Coventry's medieval city walls, including the Swanswell and Cook Street Gates. The gardens offer a tranquil green oasis amidst the urban environment, blending heritage and nature in a peaceful setting.
A brief summary to Lady Herbert's Gardens
- Coventry, GB
- +256773247508
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in spring or summer to enjoy the garden’s full floral displays and vibrant greenery.
- Take time to explore the medieval city walls and gatehouses integrated within the gardens.
- Bring a camera for picturesque views combining historic stonework and garden landscapes.
- Combine your visit with nearby Coventry attractions such as the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve Coventry city centre, with stops within a 10-minute walk of Lady Herbert's Gardens. Typical journey times from Coventry Railway Station are 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 depending on distance. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends.
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Train and Walk
From Coventry Railway Station, Lady Herbert's Gardens is approximately a 20-minute walk through the city centre. The route is mostly flat and accessible. Train services connect Coventry to Birmingham and London, making this an easy arrival option.
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Car
Driving to the gardens is possible with several city centre car parks nearby, such as the Lower Precinct or Cathedral Lanes. Parking fees vary but expect £3-£6 for a few hours. Note that Coventry city centre can be busy during peak times.
Lady Herbert's Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lady Herbert's Gardens
A Tribute to Florence Herbert and Coventry's Past
Lady Herbert's Gardens were established in the early 1930s by Sir Alfred Herbert, a prominent industrialist, as a memorial to his second wife, Florence. The gardens occupy the site of the former Chantry Orchard, which had become a slum area by the early 20th century. Construction began in 1930, with the east garden opening to the public in April 1931, followed by the addition of the west garden between 1935 and 1938. The gardens were designed by Albert Herbert, Alfred's cousin, and represent a thoughtful transformation of a neglected urban space into a place of beauty and remembrance.Historic City Walls and Architectural Remnants
A defining feature of Lady Herbert's Gardens is its integration with Coventry’s medieval heritage. The gardens are built around surviving sections of the city walls, including the Swanswell and Cook Street Gates, the last two remaining gatehouses from the original twelve that once encircled the city. Visitors can walk alongside these historic stone structures, gaining a tangible sense of Coventry’s medieval past. Small fragments of the city walls also appear elsewhere in the city, but the gardens provide one of the most accessible and atmospheric locations to experience this heritage.Landscape and Design Elements
The gardens combine formal and informal landscaping, with carefully maintained lawns, flower beds, and mature trees creating a serene environment. The layout encourages leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking respite from the bustle of the city centre. The design reflects early 20th-century garden aesthetics, with a balance of ornamental planting and open green spaces. Benches are placed strategically to invite rest and reflection, often with views framing the historic walls.Lady Herbert's Homes and Community Legacy
Adjacent to the gardens are Lady Herbert’s Homes, two blocks of almshouses built in the 1930s to provide housing for those in need. These homes, also commissioned by Alfred Herbert, were damaged during the Coventry Blitz in World War II but were rebuilt and continue to be managed by a charitable trust. This aspect of the site underscores the philanthropic spirit behind the gardens, linking heritage preservation with social care.Modern Role and Conservation Status
Today, Lady Herbert's Gardens are owned and maintained by Coventry City Council and are recognized on the Register of Parks and Gardens for their historic and cultural significance. The gardens form part of a designated conservation area that includes nearby heritage buildings and the Coventry Theatre. They remain a peaceful green space in the heart of Coventry, cherished for their blend of natural beauty and historical resonance.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Lady Herbert’s Gardens can enjoy a tranquil stroll amid the echoes of Coventry’s past. The combination of lush greenery and ancient stonework creates a unique atmosphere of calm and reflection. The gardens are ideal for quiet moments, photography, and appreciating the layers of history embedded in the cityscape. Seasonal changes bring varied colors and moods, from vibrant spring blooms to the mellow tones of autumn.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sir Frank Whittle
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Council House
0.4 km
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Bedworth Water Tower
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Westmorland Drive
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The Randolph Turpin Statue
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Hob's Moat
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Earl Shilton Castle
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Stratford Armouries
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Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours
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Digbeth Arena
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Drayton Manor Resort
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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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Discover The Floodgate in Birmingham for a unique blend of drinks, indoor sports, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Unmissable attractions to see
Millennium Place
0.1 km
Explore Coventry’s rich automotive heritage and marvel at record-breaking vehicles in a vibrant city-centre museum at Millennium Place.
Coventry Transport Museum
0.1 km
Explore the world’s largest public collection of British vehicles and experience Coventry’s rich transport heritage up close.
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.
New Buildings
0.2 km
Discover Coventry’s New Buildings area, where modern architecture meets rich heritage in England’s vibrant West Midlands city.
Priory Visitor Centre
0.3 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval roots and the beautifully preserved priory Undercrofts at this vibrant city centre heritage hub.
Coventry Cathedral
0.3 km
Where medieval ruins meet modern art—a powerful symbol of war’s cost and the enduring hope for peace and reconciliation.
Holy Trinity Coventry
0.3 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval marvel with its soaring spire, stunning Doom painting, and rich history preserved through centuries.
Lady Godiva
0.4 km
Discover the iconic Lady Godiva statue in Coventry, a bronze tribute to courage, compassion, and the city’s resilient spirit.
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.
St Mary's Guildhall
0.4 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval jewel where kings ruled, queens were imprisoned, and history lives through stunning tapestries and grand halls.
Belgrade Theatre
0.4 km
Britain's first post-war civic theatre, where modern architecture meets cultural ambition in Coventry's rebuilt city centre.
Drapers' Hall
0.4 km
Experience the rhythmic soul of Coventry at Drapers' Hall, a historic concert hall celebrated for its vibrant live music and stunning architecture.
St John the Baptist Church
0.6 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval gem, St John the Baptist Church, rich in history, Gothic artistry, and tales from England’s turbulent past.
Fords Hospital Alms House
0.6 km
Discover Coventry’s beautifully preserved Tudor almshouse, a serene 16th-century timber-framed refuge with rich history and enduring charm.
Coventry Market
0.7 km
Coventry Market: A historic and vibrant city centre market offering fresh produce, international flavors, and artisan goods since 1958.
Essential places to dine
Oak Room Restaurant
7.4 km
Award-winning fine dining in a historic 17th-century manor with classic British dishes, flambé specialties, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Cross
8.3 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic Kenilworth inn, blending classic British flavors with modern elegance and local ingredients.
The Quicken Tree
8.9 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
13.1 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Warwick blending traditional mill charm with modern British cuisine and scenic views.
La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
13.3 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in an elegant, welcoming setting at the heart of Leamington Spa’s Parade.
Hayashi Japanese Restaurant
13.4 km
Authentic Japanese flavors served fresh in a family-friendly, modern setting at the heart of Leamington Spa.
Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro
13.4 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
13.5 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
13.5 km
A stylish gastropub in Leamington Spa blending traditional charm with modern dining and lively social vibes.
Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
13.6 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
13.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and crafted cocktails in a vibrant Capri-inspired setting in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Côte Leamington Spa
13.6 km
Experience modern French cuisine and warm brasserie charm in the heart of Leamington Spa’s historic town centre.
The Stag at Offchurch
13.7 km
Historic 16th-century thatched pub offering refined British and European dining in the scenic village of Offchurch near Leamington Spa.
Eleven
14.2 km
An intimate, family-run French bistro in Leamington Spa offering classic dishes and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
The Moorings at Myton
14.6 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
5.3 km
Coventry's diverse shopping destination with major retailers, dining, and modern amenities.
Ropewalk Shopping Centre
12.5 km
A vibrant, accessible shopping hub in Nuneaton offering diverse stores, eateries, and community events in a modern indoor setting.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
13.4 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Revolve
13.4 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Life of Mou
13.5 km
Discover Life of Mou, a warm and curated slow fashion boutique blending vintage charm and sustainable style in Leamington Spa.
Collective Home Store
13.5 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
13.5 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
13.6 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Lilac Rose
13.6 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Stone The Crows
13.6 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
14.8 km
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Leamington Shopping Park
15.1 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
15.2 km
Discover handcrafted fair trade treasures at Cloud 9, Warwick’s boutique for ethical gifts and global artisan crafts.
Browsers
15.2 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
15.2 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homewares in Warwick’s welcoming boutique, perfect for every special occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrace Bar
5.1 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
13.2 km
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The White Horse
13.3 km
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Bedford Street Bar
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The Fat Pug
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Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
The Royal Pug
13.5 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Leamington Spa with great food, drinks, live entertainment, and a charming garden setting.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
13.6 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
The Drawing Board
13.7 km
Eclectic gastropub with vintage comics, gourmet bar food, and award-winning craft beers in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Boiler Room
14.0 km
An independent, quirky craft beer bar in Leamington Spa with artisan ales, lively music, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
The Micro Pug
14.4 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
14.6 km
A cozy Warwick pub blending traditional charm, hearty British fare, and well-kept real ales in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Pug
14.8 km
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The Old Coffee Tavern
15.4 km
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The Eagle
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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
15.4 km
Cozy cellar charm meets heartfelt hospitality in Warwick’s intimate and quirky Rigsby's Cellar Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Smack
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Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
Altoria Nightclub
13.4 km
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Neon
14.1 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
The Cavern
14.6 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Disco Wonderland
26.2 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
VOID Nightclub
26.3 km
Dive into Digbeth's underground heartbeat at VOID Nightclub, where marathon raves and thunderous bass fuel Birmingham's rawest nightlife from dusk till dawn.
The Night Owl
26.3 km
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Quantum Vnues
26.3 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
Next Door & Spotlight
26.3 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
Club PST
26.5 km
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Sector 57
26.6 km
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suki10c
26.8 km
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Nightingale Club
27.1 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
Sobar
27.2 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
Bambu Nightclub
27.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
