Coventry Cathedral

The New Cathedral is a work of inspiration. Work started a day after the Old Cathedral was bombed during the Blitz of 1940, and the Cathedral is now recognised as a beacon of hope, fellowship, peace and reconciliation. The decision to rebuild the cathedral was taken the morning after its destruction. Rebuilding would not be an act of defiance, but rather a sign of faith, trust and hope for the future of the world. It was the vision of the Provost at the time, Dick Howard, which led the people of Coventry away from feelings of bitterness and hatred. This has led to the cathedral’s Ministry of Peace and Reconciliation, which has provided spiritual and practical support, in areas of conflict throughout the world.

As soon as it was opened in 1962, Coventry Cathedral became a major tourist attraction, welcoming thousands of visitors each year. Tourists and pilgrims come from all over the world to experience this extraordinary building and to share something of the quest for peace and reconciliation embodied by the dramatic contrast of the Ruins and the New Cathedral. We’d love to welcome you too! From Monday to Saturday, the New Cathedral is usually open between 10 am and 5 pm (last recommended entry 4 pm). On Sunday we’re open to visitors between 12 noon and 4 pm (last recommended entry 3 pm). The Cathedral Ruins are open daily between 9 am and 5 pm or dusk, whichever is earlier.