2-Tone Village: Coventry’s Musical Heritage Hub
Explore Coventry’s iconic 2-Tone Village, a vibrant museum, café, and live music venue celebrating the city’s legendary ska heritage.
2-Tone Village in Coventry is a vibrant cultural hub celebrating the city’s iconic 2-Tone ska music movement. Combining a museum, café, live music venue, and shop, it offers immersive exhibits on legendary bands like The Specials and Madness, alongside Caribbean-inspired cuisine and regular live performances. This unique destination captures Coventry’s multicultural spirit and musical legacy in a lively, welcoming setting.
A brief summary to 2-Tone Village
- R/O 74, 80 Walsgrave Rd, Coventry, CV2 4ED, GB
- +447870507000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekends to enjoy live music performances and a lively atmosphere.
- Check the museum’s schedule for special exhibits and events during your visit.
- Try the café’s Caribbean-inspired dishes that reflect the multicultural roots of 2-Tone music.
- Bring a camera to capture the many Instagram-worthy exhibits and vibrant décor.
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 the Stagecoach West Midlands bus routes 3 or 4 from Coventry city center to Walsgrave Road; journey time is about 20-30 minutes. Services run frequently but check schedules for weekend variations. A single fare costs approximately £2.50.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Coventry city center to 2-Tone Village takes around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £8-£12. Taxis are readily available but pre-booking is recommended during peak times.
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Car
Driving to 2-Tone Village is straightforward via Walsgrave Road. Limited on-site parking is available; nearby street parking may require payment. Expect parking fees around £1-£3 per hour. Note that traffic can be busy during weekends and evenings.
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Walking
From Coventry city center, walking to 2-Tone Village takes approximately 25-30 minutes along mostly flat urban terrain. The route is accessible but urban traffic and road crossings require caution.
2-Tone Village location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about 2-Tone Village
The Birthplace of 2-Tone Music
Nestled in Coventry, 2-Tone Village is a dedicated space celebrating the 2-Tone music genre that emerged in the late 1970s. This genre fused Jamaican ska, reggae, and rocksteady with punk and new wave influences, reflecting the city’s multicultural fabric and addressing social issues like racial unity and economic hardship. The movement was spearheaded by bands such as The Specials, Madness, and The Selecter, whose legacy is deeply embedded in Coventry’s cultural history.An Engaging Museum Experience
The museum at 2-Tone Village showcases a rich collection of memorabilia, photographs, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of the 2-Tone movement and its impact locally and globally. Visitors can explore artifacts from iconic bands, learn about the genre’s anti-racist message, and discover Coventry’s broader musical heritage. The museum also features the Coventry Music Wall of Fame, honoring local artists who shaped the city’s vibrant soundscape.A Hub for Live Music and Community
Beyond the museum, 2-Tone Village serves as a live music venue hosting performances by local talents and renowned artists, keeping the spirit of 2-Tone music alive. The café and Caribbean restaurant on-site offer dishes inspired by the diverse cultures that influenced the music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. The venue fosters a sense of community, often referred to as the 'Ska Family,' reflecting the inclusive ethos of the 2-Tone movement.Historical and Cultural Significance
2-Tone Village is more than a museum; it is a testament to Coventry’s history of multiculturalism and social activism through music. The genre’s message of racial harmony and political awareness resonated during a turbulent era in Britain. The village’s exhibits and events highlight this legacy, including the pivotal 1981 anti-racism concert held in Coventry. The site also honors the contributions of migrants from the Caribbean who brought reggae and ska influences to the UK.Visitor Accessibility and Atmosphere
The village is wheelchair accessible, with facilities such as a disabled toilet and stair climber for museum access. Volunteers are available to assist visitors, including those with visual impairments. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, blending a cultural museum with a social venue, making it suitable for music enthusiasts, history buffs, and families. The location’s design combines vintage and modern elements, reflecting the era and ongoing relevance of 2-Tone music.Ongoing Legacy and Community Engagement
Operated largely by volunteers and supported by local grants, 2-Tone Village continues to grow as a cultural landmark. It hosts temporary exhibitions, such as displays on band members’ careers and artwork, and maintains a connection with fans worldwide. The village stands as a living tribute to Coventry’s musical innovation and its enduring message of unity and cultural celebration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Council House
1.7 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Sir Frank Whittle
1.7 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Bedworth Water Tower
7.3 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Westmorland Drive
12.2 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
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Celebrate the legacy of British boxing champion Randolph Turpin with this striking bronze statue in Warwick’s historic Market Square.
Hob's Moat
20.8 km
Medieval moat and woodland escape preserving Solihull's Norman heritage
Earl Shilton Castle
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Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Sarehole Mill Museum
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Stratford Armouries
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Drayton Manor Resort
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Birmingham Heritage Walking Tours
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Discover Birmingham's rich history and culture through immersive guided walking tours showcasing iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
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
28.1 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
28.1 km
Explore the Custard Factory - Birmingham's creative hub of art, culture, and unique shopping experiences.
Digbeth Art Space
28.1 km
Discover the vibrant creativity at Digbeth Art Space, Birmingham's premier art gallery showcasing local talent and innovative exhibitions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Coventry Cathedral
1.6 km
Where medieval ruins meet modern art—a powerful symbol of war’s cost and the enduring hope for peace and reconciliation.
Drapers' Hall
1.6 km
Experience the rhythmic soul of Coventry at Drapers' Hall, a historic concert hall celebrated for its vibrant live music and stunning architecture.
St Mary's Guildhall
1.6 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval jewel where kings ruled, queens were imprisoned, and history lives through stunning tapestries and grand halls.
Lady Herbert's Gardens
1.7 km
A serene city-centre garden blending medieval heritage with floral beauty, created as a heartfelt memorial in 1930s Coventry.
Priory Visitor Centre
1.7 km
Explore Coventry’s medieval roots and the beautifully preserved priory Undercrofts at this vibrant city centre heritage hub.
Golden Cross
1.7 km
Discover the Golden Cross in Coventry, a charming pub offering a delightful gluten-free dining experience and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
New Buildings
1.7 km
Discover Coventry’s New Buildings area, where modern architecture meets rich heritage in England’s vibrant West Midlands city.
Millennium Place
1.7 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
1.7 km
Explore the world’s largest public collection of British vehicles and experience Coventry’s rich transport heritage up close.
Holy Trinity Coventry
1.7 km
Discover Coventry’s medieval marvel with its soaring spire, stunning Doom painting, and rich history preserved through centuries.
Lady Godiva
1.8 km
Discover the iconic Lady Godiva statue in Coventry, a bronze tribute to courage, compassion, and the city’s resilient spirit.
Old grammar school
1.8 km
Step into Coventry’s medieval past at the beautifully restored Old Grammar School, a heritage landmark beside the Transport Museum.
Fords Hospital Alms House
1.9 km
Discover Coventry’s beautifully preserved Tudor almshouse, a serene 16th-century timber-framed refuge with rich history and enduring charm.
Bull Yard
2.0 km
Bull Yard is Coventry’s vibrant pedestrian precinct blending post-war heritage with lively retail, dining, and cultural experiences in the city centre.
Belgrade Theatre
2.0 km
Britain's first post-war civic theatre, where modern architecture meets cultural ambition in Coventry's rebuilt city centre.
Essential places to dine
Oak Room Restaurant
9.0 km
Award-winning fine dining in a historic 17th-century manor with classic British dishes, flambé specialties, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Cross
9.3 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic Kenilworth inn, blending classic British flavors with modern elegance and local ingredients.
The Quicken Tree
10.2 km
A cozy British restaurant in Coventry offering hearty meals, quirky decor, and a family-friendly atmosphere near scenic lakes and woodlands.
The Stag at Offchurch
13.4 km
Historic 16th-century thatched pub offering refined British and European dining in the scenic village of Offchurch near Leamington Spa.
La Coppola Ristorante & Oyster Bar
13.5 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in an elegant, welcoming setting at the heart of Leamington Spa’s Parade.
Hayashi Japanese Restaurant
13.5 km
Authentic Japanese flavors served fresh in a family-friendly, modern setting at the heart of Leamington Spa.
Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro
13.6 km
Experience authentic French bistro charm and superb British steaks in the heart of Leamington Spa at Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro.
Saxon Mill Warwick
13.6 km
Historic riverside gastropub in Warwick blending traditional mill charm with modern British cuisine and scenic views.
Habano Restaurant & Wine Bar
13.7 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.
Giggling Squid - Leamington Spa
13.8 km
Experience vibrant Thai flavors and stylish sharing plates in the heart of Leamington Spa’s Royal Priors Shopping Centre.
The Star & Garter
13.8 km
A stylish gastropub in Leamington Spa blending traditional charm with modern dining and lively social vibes.
Villa Capri Ristorante Italiano & Cocktail Lounge
13.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and crafted cocktails in a vibrant Capri-inspired setting in the heart of Leamington Spa.
Côte Leamington Spa
13.8 km
Experience modern French cuisine and warm brasserie charm in the heart of Leamington Spa’s historic town centre.
Eleven
14.3 km
An intimate, family-run French bistro in Leamington Spa offering classic dishes and warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
The Moorings at Myton
14.9 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
3.6 km
Coventry's diverse shopping destination with major retailers, dining, and modern amenities.
Ropewalk Shopping Centre
12.4 km
A vibrant, accessible shopping hub in Nuneaton offering diverse stores, eateries, and community events in a modern indoor setting.
Revolve
13.6 km
Discover exclusive ladies’ fashion and wedding wear with personalized service at Revolve, Leamington Spa’s stylish boutique on Warwick Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
13.6 km
Discover quirky gifts, creative homewares, and joyful party supplies at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Leamington Spa’s vibrant town centre.
Life of Mou
13.7 km
Discover Life of Mou, a warm and curated slow fashion boutique blending vintage charm and sustainable style in Leamington Spa.
Collective Home Store
13.7 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
13.7 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
13.8 km
Discover stylish homewares and unique gifts at Cotswold Trading, Leamington Spa’s award-winning destination for curated, quirky collections.
Lilac Rose
13.8 km
Discover unique British fashion and accessories at Lilac Rose, Leamington Spa’s vibrant independent boutique with a curated, colourful collection.
Stone The Crows
13.8 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
15.3 km
Discover a vibrant shopping destination with free parking, top brands, and a welcoming open-air environment in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa.
Rare Finds Gift Shop
15.6 km
Curated gifts and one-of-a-kind treasures on Rugby's High Street.
Cloud 9
15.7 km
Discover handcrafted fair trade treasures at Cloud 9, Warwick’s boutique for ethical gifts and global artisan crafts.
Browsers
15.7 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
15.7 km
Discover unique gifts and charming homewares in Warwick’s welcoming boutique, perfect for every special occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Terrace Bar
6.3 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
13.4 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
13.5 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
13.7 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 Royal Pug
13.7 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Leamington Spa with great food, drinks, live entertainment, and a charming garden setting.
The Drawing Board
13.8 km
Eclectic gastropub with vintage comics, gourmet bar food, and award-winning craft beers in the heart of Leamington Spa.
The Fat Pug
13.8 km
Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
Fizzy Moon Brewhouse & Grill
13.8 km
Eclectic brewhouse and grill in Leamington Spa offering craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a uniquely stylish atmosphere.
The Boiler Room
14.2 km
An independent, quirky craft beer bar in Leamington Spa with artisan ales, lively music, and a cozy, intimate vibe.
The Micro Pug
14.6 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
15.2 km
A cozy Warwick pub blending traditional charm, hearty British fare, and well-kept real ales in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Black Pug
15.3 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
15.9 km
Charming historic pub and boutique hotel in Warwick’s Old Square, blending cosy style, excellent food, and comfortable rooms in a central location.
Ronnie's of Warwick
16.0 km
Eclectic bar in Warwick blending retro style, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere with a welcoming garden space.
The Eagle
16.0 km
A cozy, quirky cellar micro pub in Warwick serving expertly curated real ales and craft beers in an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Smack
13.5 km
Leamington Spa’s energetic and affordable two-floor nightclub with a storied past and a lively, if sometimes challenging, atmosphere.
Altoria Nightclub
13.6 km
Experience Leamington Spa’s vibrant nightlife at Altoria Nightclub with diverse music floors, VIP service, and a unique rooftop terrace open till 3 am.
Neon
14.3 km
Leamington Spa’s largest nightclub, Neon delivers vibrant music, themed nights, and a dynamic party atmosphere every Friday until dawn.
The Cavern
15.2 km
A vibrant night club in Warwick offering energetic music, lively dancing, and a social atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Disco Wonderland
27.9 km
Dive into Birmingham's dazzling disco haven, where retro beats, neon lights, and endless energy light up Deritend's nightlife.
VOID Nightclub
27.9 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
27.9 km
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
Quantum Vnues
28.0 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
28.0 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
28.2 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
Sector 57
28.2 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
suki10c
28.5 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
Caz Bar Nightclub
28.5 km
Experience Stratford-upon-Avon's glamorous late-night vibe at Caz Bar, a vintage cellar nightclub with live DJs, dancers, and premium drinks until dawn.
Stratford Play House
28.7 km
Discover the vibrant world of performing arts at Stratford Play House, where drama, comedy, and culinary delights come together in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Fat Cat Comedy Club
28.7 km
Discover the joy of laughter at Fat Cat Comedy Club in Stratford-upon-Avon, where each show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
