Herbert Art Gallery & Museum
A vibrant cultural hub in Coventry, showcasing diverse art collections, local history, and engaging temporary exhibitions with free admission.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Herbert Art Gallery & Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant cultural hub in Coventry, showcasing diverse art collections, local history, and engaging temporary exhibitions with free admission.
"A treasure to Coventry, a place full of art and history bringing communities together and offering space for all ages to learn and grow."
🎯 Free Entry Advantage
Enjoy the entire museum and its exhibitions at no cost! A fantastic way to experience culture on a budget.
🅿️ Parking Tips
Salt Lane car park is a good bet. Check opening times as some pay-and-displays can be closed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coventry's Story
Local History Galleries
Discover the rich tapestry of Coventry's past, from its medieval roots to its industrial heritage and vibrant present. See artifacts and stories that shaped the city.
Artistic Expressions
Art Galleries
Explore diverse art collections, from classical paintings to contemporary installations. Don't miss temporary exhibitions that showcase local and international talent.
Lady Godiva's Legacy
Dedicated Gallery
Uncover the legend of Lady Godiva through dedicated displays, offering a unique glimpse into this iconic Coventry figure.
Caribbean Connections
Special Exhibitions
Explore the city's Caribbean presence through archival materials and compelling narratives. A powerful look at community and culture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Advantage
Enjoy the entire museum and its exhibitions at no cost! A fantastic way to experience culture on a budget.
🅿️ Parking Tips
Salt Lane car park is a good bet. Check opening times as some pay-and-displays can be closed.
☕ Cafe Delights
Grab a bite or a drink at the cafe – reviewers praise the coffee, hot chocolate, and sandwiches.
🚶♀️ Central Location
Easily walkable from the bus station and close to Coventry Cathedral. Perfect for a day of exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Advantage
Enjoy the entire museum and its exhibitions at no cost! A fantastic way to experience culture on a budget.
🅿️ Parking Tips
Salt Lane car park is a good bet. Check opening times as some pay-and-displays can be closed.
☕ Cafe Delights
Grab a bite or a drink at the cafe – reviewers praise the coffee, hot chocolate, and sandwiches.
🚶♀️ Central Location
Easily walkable from the bus station and close to Coventry Cathedral. Perfect for a day of exploring.
🎧 Silent Disco Fun
Experience unique events like silent discos for a memorable night out under the exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum for its free admission, diverse collections, and engaging exhibitions. It's seen as a cultural treasure for Coventry, offering a rich blend of art and local history. While parking can be a minor inconvenience, the overall experience is highly recommended for its value and enriching content.
"Visited for the collectors collection, nicely displayed. Overall a good museum, nice café, £4.50 for an adult day ticket. 5 minutes from the bus station, next to Coventry Cathedral."
LEE JOHNSON
"A treasure to Coventry, a place full of art and history bringing communities together and offering space for all ages to learn and grow.
We went to the recent silent disco which was great, partying under dippy."
Ryan Hobday
""Jason and the Adventure of 254" exhibition is 100% worth a visit....I loved it and related to the Artist more than I have with any artist....inspired."
Gary Chaplinkemp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is centrally located in Coventry. It's a short walk from the Coventry bus station and easily accessible by train from London Euston.
If driving, Salt Lane car park is a recommended option.Yes, Salt Lane car park is a good option for parking near the museum. Some pay-and-display car parks mentioned on the website might be closed, so it's worth checking in advance.
Absolutely! The museum is very close to the main bus station in Coventry, making it easily accessible via local bus routes.
The museum is generally accessible, with lifts and ramps to help navigate between floors. It's advisable to check their specific accessibility information for any temporary limitations.
Many visitors find that walking is the best way to explore Coventry city centre, as key attractions like the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum and Coventry Cathedral are close to each other.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The great news is that general admission to the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is free!
Some special exhibitions or events may have a separate charge.Opening hours can vary, especially for special events. It's always best to check the official Herbert Art Gallery & Museum website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required due to free entry. However, for special events like silent discos, booking tickets ahead of time is highly recommended as they can sell out.
While general admission is free, some special exhibitions or workshops might have ticket prices. Keep an eye on their website for any concessionary rates or family ticket options for paid events.
Yes, you can request to see the Medieval Undercroft. Some visitors have noted that the tour might feel a bit rushed, so manage your expectations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Herbert features a diverse range of exhibits, including local history displays, art collections (paintings, sculptures), natural history items, and temporary exhibitions.
Yes, the museum often hosts workshops and activities suitable for young makers and families, such as macramé classes.
Check their events calendar for current offerings.Yes, there is a shop where you can purchase small items. It's a good place to find souvenirs related to the exhibits or Coventry.
This exhibition features art that deeply resonated with visitors, offering an inspiring and relatable experience with the artist's work.
Silent discos at the Herbert offer a unique party experience with multiple music channels, tropical cocktails, street food, and live music, all held within the museum's unique setting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe that is well-regarded by visitors. It's a great spot to relax and refuel.
The cafe offers a selection of snacks and light meals, including coffee, hot chocolate, and sandwiches. Reviewers found the prices reasonable and the quality good.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best practice to consume outside food in designated areas or not at all within museum galleries. The cafe provides a convenient option.
Being in the city centre, there are numerous restaurants and cafes surrounding the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, offering a wide variety of cuisines.
The cafe is suitable for both. You can grab a quick coffee and pastry or enjoy a sandwich. It's a good place for a brief respite during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas of the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum. However, always look for signage indicating 'no photography' zones, especially for specific artworks or temporary exhibitions.
Flash photography is usually not allowed as it can damage delicate artworks. Tripods and selfie sticks might also be restricted, particularly during busy periods or for specific exhibitions.
The diverse exhibits offer many photo opportunities, from the historical displays and art pieces to the unique architecture of the building. The 'Jason and the Adventure of 254' exhibition has been highlighted for its visual impact.
Short videos for personal social media are typically allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and any specific filming policies. For professional or commercial filming, you'll likely need to seek permission from the museum.
The 'Caribbean life in Coventry' archives offer visually rich content.
Also, the art collections and the unique setting for events like silent discos provide great photographic moments.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks or plan a stop at the cafe for a convenient refuel. The central location means it's easy to combine a visit with other family-friendly attractions in Coventry. Remember to check the museum's events calendar for any specific family programming during your visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a packed lunch or a budget-friendly meal from the museum's cafe, which offers reasonably priced snacks and drinks. Its central location also means you can save on transport by walking from the bus station or other nearby city centre points.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss out on unique events like the 'Jason and the Adventure of 254' exhibition, which has been noted for its profound impact on visitors. The museum's commitment to showcasing contemporary art alongside its permanent collections ensures a rich and varied artistic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Coventry's Heritage
Beyond the broader historical narrative, the museum dedicates space to specific cultural narratives. The Caribbean presence in Coventry is explored through archival materials, providing a vital platform for diverse community stories. This focus ensures that the museum reflects the multifaceted nature of the city's population and history, making it a truly inclusive cultural hub.
For those interested in local legends, the Lady Godiva gallery offers a dedicated exploration of this iconic figure. These exhibits, combined with the museum's commitment to showcasing contemporary art, create a dynamic and engaging experience that appeals to a wide range of interests.
Artistic Journeys at The Herbert
Visitors have particularly praised exhibitions like 'Jason and the Adventure of 254,' which offered a deeply personal and inspiring connection for many. The museum also provides opportunities for creative engagement, hosting workshops like macramé wall hanging masterclasses for young makers. This hands-on approach to art education underscores the Herbert's role in fostering creativity within the community.
Furthermore, the museum has become a unique venue for events, such as the 'Lost in Sound' silent disco. This innovative use of space transforms the gallery into an immersive entertainment experience, blending art appreciation with vibrant social gatherings.
Community and Events
Events like the silent disco have proven particularly popular, offering a unique way to engage with the museum's collections in a lively atmosphere. These gatherings not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community and shared enjoyment of the cultural space.
The museum also has a strong connection with local artists and initiatives, as seen in the 'Caribbean life in Coventry' project. This collaborative approach ensures that the Herbert remains relevant and reflective of the community it serves, making it a dynamic and evolving cultural institution.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit