Coventry

The City of Coventry, famous for its Lady Godiva legend. Whether or not this actual story is a myth or whether it is true is the subject of some dispute but historical records do show that there was a Lady Godiva who died in 1067.

Many people will be familiar with the phrase 'Sent to Coventry'. This is thought to have originated from industrial disputes of the twentieth century where workers were shunned and shut off from communication through disagreements over striking and other issues that put them in an unfavourable situation with their work colleagues. 

Trade in the 1700's records blanket weaving and ribbon making and the textile industry was originally the main trade for Coventry. This was superceded by watch and clock makers. Coventry and its industry was given a major boost by the arrival of the canals and steam engines. 

Coventry is famous for sewing machines and bicycles and the famous Penny Farthing bicycle was invented by James Starley. The production of bicycles led to motorbikes and cars for which Coventry is well known for.

Coventry and its contribution to the war effort in both world wars, along with its neighbour Birmingham, was essential to the armed forces and consequently this made it a target for enemy air raids. Severe bombing during the second world war severely damaged the city and evidence of this exists today with the ruins of the old Cathedral. 

The new Cathedral in Coventry is certainly different from traditional Cathedral buildings. It was designed by Basil Spence and is situated alongside the old ruins. Coventry is now twinned with Dresden in Germany. Dresden was also heavily bombed during the war. Coventry has now developed into a modern bustling city with its magnificent cathedral and museums which include the National Motorcycle Museum and the Air Museum. 

Other notable museums and attractions include The Herbert Museum and Art Gallery, The Toy Museum and St Mary's Guildhall which dates back from 1342. In recent years Coventry has benefited from European Funding and the arrival of large modern business parks and science parks. 

The retail sector has expanded dramatically and Coventry's excellent road and rail network have encouraged many large companies to move their centres of operations to the city of Coventry. This in turn has created new leisure opportunities and Coventry hosts a fine selection of cinemas, restaurants and clubs. 

The name Coventry is thought to come from the Old English 'Cofa's tree' but a more recent survey suggests that the first part 'Cofa' (modern cove) perhaps refers to the pool by the river Sherbourne on which Coventry stands. The cove by the tree perhaps? Places were often given names after landmarks.

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