The story of Coventry

This volume opens a vivid portrait of Coventry, tracing its rise from the medieval stronghold of Leofric and Godiva through the bustling market streets of the Tudor era. The author weaves together architectural details, civic records, and lively anecdotes about the city’s guilds, festivals, and the famous Corpus Christi plays that once filled its streets. Readers will hear the clatter of merchants at Smithford Street, the echo of sermons in Saint John’s, and the solemn toll of the city’s ancient bells.

Beyond the stone and spire, the book delves into the personalities who shaped Coventry’s destiny—mayors, bailiffs, and even royalty who visited on historic occasions. With careful examination of surviving records, it clarifies long‑standing confusions about royal arrests and pageant dates, while showcasing newly uncovered medieval drama excerpts. The result is a richly illustrated, accessible guide that invites listeners to wander through Coventry’s past, feeling the pulse of a city that has continually reinvented itself.