Lady Herbert's Garden, Coventry
A serene city-centre garden blending medieval heritage with floral beauty, created as a heartfelt memorial in 1930s Coventry.
Lady Herbert's Garden is a tranquil ornamental garden in Coventry city centre, created in the 1930s as a memorial to Florence Herbert by Sir Alfred Herbert. It features historic medieval city wall remains, including Swanswell and Cook Street Gates, set amidst beautifully landscaped floral displays and lawns. The garden offers a peaceful green oasis within the urban environment, blending heritage and horticultural charm.
A brief summary to Lady Herbert's Gardens
- Coventry, GB
- +256773247508
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the garden's floral displays and historic city wall remains.
- Combine your visit with nearby Coventry attractions like the Transport Museum and Coventry Cathedral.
- Take time to explore the medieval Swanswell and Cook Street Gates integrated within the garden.
- Bring a camera for picturesque views of the garden’s lawns and historic stonework.
- Check local opening times as the garden is generally open during daylight but may close at dusk.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Bus
Coventry city centre is well served by bus routes from across the city and region, with frequent services stopping near Hales Street or the city centre bus station. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets typically cost between £2 and £5 for single journeys.
-
Train
Coventry Railway Station is about 1.5 km from Lady Herbert's Garden, accessible by a 20-25 minute walk or a short taxi ride. Trains connect Coventry with Birmingham, London, and other major cities, with fares starting around £10 for local trips.
-
Taxi
Taxis and ride-hailing services provide direct access to Lady Herbert's Garden from anywhere in Coventry. Typical fares from the railway station or city centre range from £5 to £10, with travel times of 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic.
-
Walking
If you are already in Coventry city centre, Lady Herbert's Garden is easily walkable on mostly flat, paved paths. Walking times from central landmarks such as Coventry Cathedral or the Transport Museum are approximately 10 to 15 minutes, suitable for most visitors.
Lady Herbert's Gardens location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Lady Herbert's Gardens
A Tribute to Florence Herbert and Coventry's Heritage
Lady Herbert's Garden was established in the early 1930s by Sir Alfred Herbert, a prominent Coventry industrialist, in loving memory of his late wife Florence who passed away in 1930. The garden was designed by Alfred's cousin, architect Albert Herbert, and opened to the public in stages between 1931 and 1939. It was created on the site of the former Chantry Orchard, which had become a slum area before being cleared for this purpose. The garden serves as both a floral sanctuary and a historic memorial, commemorating Florence’s life and the city's rich past.Historic City Walls and Architectural Features
A defining characteristic of Lady Herbert's Garden is its integration with remnants of Coventry’s medieval city walls, including the surviving gatehouses of Swanswell and Cook Street. These structures are among the last of the twelve original gates that once encircled the city, offering visitors a tangible connection to Coventry’s medieval defenses. The garden’s layout respects and highlights these heritage elements, creating a harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical significance.Design and Landscape Elements
The garden is divided into east and west sections, with gently sloping lawns, flower beds, and walkways designed to provide a serene environment. The east garden opened in 1931, followed by the west garden completed by 1939. The design emphasizes floral beauty and tranquility, with well-maintained lawns and seasonal plantings that offer color and texture throughout the year. The garden’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a favored spot for quiet reflection amid the city bustle.Community and Conservation Efforts
Originally funded and maintained through an endowment by Sir Alfred Herbert, the garden faced financial challenges after his death in 1957. Ownership was eventually transferred to Coventry City Council in 1974, ensuring its preservation and public accessibility. The garden is listed on the Register of Parks and Gardens, reflecting its cultural and historic importance. Conservation efforts continue to maintain the garden's floral displays and protect the medieval wall remains.Surrounding Context and Visitor Experience
Situated in Coventry’s city centre, Lady Herbert's Garden offers a green refuge surrounded by urban life and cultural landmarks. Nearby are other attractions such as Coventry Transport Museum and historic sites, making the garden an ideal peaceful stop on a city exploration. Visitors can enjoy the contrast between the garden’s calm and the dynamic city atmosphere, appreciating both nature and heritage in one location.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Lady Herbert's Garden stands as a lasting symbol of remembrance, urban renewal, and Coventry’s layered history. It reflects early 20th-century efforts to combine public green space with heritage conservation. The garden not only honors Florence Herbert but also preserves important medieval architecture, offering visitors a unique blend of horticulture, history, and community spirit in the heart of Coventry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sir Frank Whittle
0.1 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Council House
0.4 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Bedworth Water Tower
7.4 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Westmorland Drive
12.1 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
15.5 km
Celebrate the legacy of British boxing champion Randolph Turpin with this striking bronze statue in Warwick’s historic Market Square.
Hob's Moat
19.1 km
Medieval moat and woodland escape preserving Solihull's Norman heritage
Earl Shilton Castle
23.1 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Stratford Armouries
25.2 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
25.9 km
Discover Birmingham's rich history and culture through immersive guided walking tours showcasing iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Digbeth Arena
26.2 km
Discover the heart of Birmingham's cultural scene at Digbeth Arena, a vibrant events venue for live music and artistic expression.
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.
Factory Works
26.4 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
26.4 km
Explore the Custard Factory - Birmingham's creative hub of art, culture, and unique shopping experiences.
Digbeth Art Space
26.4 km
Discover the vibrant creativity at Digbeth Art Space, Birmingham's premier art gallery showcasing local talent and innovative exhibitions.
The Floodgate
26.5 km
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
Eclectic gifts and quality oak furniture blend tradition and style at Resorts World Birmingham’s vibrant gift shop.
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
Lively sports bar and pub in Leamington Spa with live games, craft beers, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The White Horse
13.3 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
13.5 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
13.5 km
Quirky and welcoming gastro pub in Leamington Spa serving hearty British dishes and lively drinks in a vibrant, eclectic setting.
The Royal Pug
13.5 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
A historic Tudor pub in Warwick offering quirky charm, great drinks, dog-friendly warmth, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
The Old Coffee Tavern
15.4 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
15.4 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
15.4 km
Cozy cellar charm meets heartfelt hospitality in Warwick’s intimate and quirky Rigsby's Cellar Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Smack
13.3 km
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
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
14.1 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
A cozy Digbeth venue where soulful retro beats and friendly vibes create unforgettable nights for all music lovers.
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
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
Sector 57
26.6 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
suki10c
26.8 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
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
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
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
