Old warehouses filled with artisanal shops and tearooms surround the basin of the Coventry Canal. Take a narrow boat cruise between its parks and art trail.
Marking the end of the city’s waterway, the Coventry Canal Basin offers a glimpse into the area’s industrial heritage. Surrounded by redbrick warehouses containing shops, artist studios and activity hubs, the basin has a thriving boating community. Start your walk along the scenic banks of the canal from this lively spot.
Admire the towering warehouses enclosing the canal basin, reminders of Coventry’s industrial development in the 1700s. Inspect the bronze sculpture of 18th-century canal engineer James Brindley, who is depicted musing over a set of design plans and gazing at the canal. This is one of the 15 works by local artists making up the Canal Art Trail that runs from here to Hawkesbury Junction.
As you embark on the trail, stop off at the various leafy parks gracing the sides of the canal. Examine the array of colorful narrow boats lining the basin and snap photos beside your favorite pick.
Attend a concert or exhibition in the historic surroundings of a former coal storage building in the Tin Music and Arts center. Enjoy traditional hot beverages and pastries from the Country Crust Tea Rooms. Recognizable by its light blue lettering, the Coventry Telegraph local newspaper has offices overlooking the canal.
Take a cruise on the water with the Coventrian Narrow Boat company or drive your own vessel rented from the Mole Valley operator. Fishing is permitted in the canal, which is flanked by angling clubs and equipment shops. Public restrooms are available a short walk from the canal basin.
Find the Coventry Canal Basin at the southern end of the canal, just north of the city center. To get here, walk across a footbridge extending across a highway. While in the area, see such attractions as the Coventry Transport Museum, the Swanswell Gate and Lady Herbert’s Gardens.
