Things to do for FREE in Coventry
If you’re looking to bring your family to a place with a vibrant atmosphere, gorgeous green spaces and world-class attractions, look no further than the city of Coventry, which was the UK’s City of Culture in 2021. A day out in Coventry doesn't need to break the bank, there are plenty of free family-friendly activities you can enjoy in Coventry. Here's a round-up of our favourite things to do for free in Coventry.
Things to do for FREE in Coventry | Free Activities in Coventry
Free Days Out in Coventry
Coventry has a range of attractions to visit, free of charge, as well as regular events. Keep an eye out on our Things to do for Free in Coventry collection for inspiration! There's all sorts of hidden gems in Coventry, waiting to be discovered!
Free Museums in Coventry
A family trip to a Museum has so much to offer! Fun and educational, they're a great way to encourage curiosity and learn about our city's amazing heritage. The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum has a diverse selection of exhibitions from visual art, industrial history, and archaeology. The museum also hosts various events, temporary displays, and workshops, so there's always something for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget to say hi to Dippy the Dinosaur!
Other Free Museums in Coventry
Coventry Cathedral
As soon as it was opened in 1962, Coventry Cathedral became a major tourist attraction, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. The Cathedral opens its doors to visitors all year round and everybody is welcome to attend for worship, as well as the regular family friendly events they run. Click here for current events. The original St Michael’s Cathedral in Coventry was built between the late 14th century and early 15th century. It now stands ruined, bombed almost to destruction during the attack on the city by German bombers on the night of November 14th, 1940. The bombed out remains of the old church were kept intact next to the new one and it's a significant part of Coventry's identity as a centre for peace and reconciliation.
Parks, Walks and Green Spaces
Coventry has a wealth of parks, walks and green spaces to explore. Whether you head to your local park with a football or the kids' bikes or you venture further afield to somewhere new, you can have a great day out for very little cost. Click here to explore the full collection of the best parks and walks for families in Coventry. Here's a few of our favourites.
Coventry's most popular park, War Memorial Park is roughly 48.5 hectares in size and is made up of two areas: the formal garden with the War Memorial, and the sports area with playing fields, golf course, Splash 'n' Play Park and play areas. There is also a 1.6 mile circular footpath around the park. You will find historic landmarks, sculptures and themed gardens around the site, look out for the plaques for more information. The large play area caters to a variety of ages including a large sandpit area, so don't forget your buckets and spades.
Coombe Abbey Park boasts 500 acres of gardens and woodland. You can take a lakeside walk or enjoy the vast expanse of greenery. The park also offers play areas, a climbing forest, and a discovery centre. Take some duck friendly food and you can feed the ducks at the pond. There is a charge for the car park, but entry to the Park itself is free.
Coventry's Secret Quarry Garden is a wildlife haven created over 30 years ago in an old quarry, once full of rubbish and cars. Now it is a beautiful and interesting garden, with so much to explore. Stroll among the six acres of tranquil pools, streams, trees and flowering shrubs and spot the many birds, amphibians and animals that have made it their home. You will also find the Creepy Overgrown Maze, Bee Hives, and there are a lot of benches. This hidden gem is a real treat! Bring along a picnic or stop in at the café on site. This is a popular spot for hiding and finding painted rocks, too.
Warwick University Sculpture Park
Choose from a variety of sculpture trails to suit your interests and stamina! From dinosaur trails to following the hare, there are maps available to download or pickup for free and plenty of parking (chargeable) within easy reach of the trails. Complete the activities and read the information about each sculpture or just take them all in. The Warwick University Sculpture Park is well worth a visit if you've got an hour or two to explore Warwick University Campus.
Allesley Park is a picturesque outdoor space with rolling landscape and established trees. There's wide tarmacked path that's good for bikes and scooters and the well equipped and natural play area is very popular. The enchanting Fairy Village starts at the Walled Garden and stops by the path to Buckhold Drive. Tiny hand-painted doors appear on trees accompanied by miniature signs saying things like “Fairies meeting place” alongside little stepladders and plant pots. A brilliant place to explore with little ones.
Free Groups and Classes in Coventry
There are a number of groups and classes happening in Coventry that are completely free! Whether you're looking for a baby group, lego club or outdoor yoga, you're sure to find something that suits you. Click here to find local groups and classes that are free to attend.
Family Hubs in Coventry
There are eight Family Hubs in Coventry. Family Hubs offer support and advice to anyone who needs it as well as offering a programme of activities for families to enjoy. Click here to see what your local family hub is offering right now.
Coventry Libraries
As well as offering a space to go and read with your children, Coventry libraries host a wide range of free activities for families in Coventry. From crafts, Lego and chess to rhyme time and story time, there'll be something to keep a wide range of ages engaged. The bonus is, you can come home with some books to keep the kids entertained a while longer! Click here to find out what's on at your local library.
Eating Out on a Budget
If you're going to be out all day and you don't fancy bringing a picnic, why not try one of Coventry's community cafés? We've got a great selection of community cafés in Coventry, offering affordable menus and a chance to get out the house without spending too much. Check out our collection of community cafés here.
In the school holidays, many restaurants and other eateries offer 'Kids Eat Free or for £1' deals. Click this link in the holidays to find out which restaurants are running these offers.
We hope you found lots of inspiration for things to do for FREE in Coventry! Don't forget there are heaps of activities and events on the Coventry Rocks website for you to browse at your leisure - just click this link!
You can also fine a fantastic collection of over 70 Parks and Walks, and inspiration for days out in Coventry
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to watch our adventures!
