Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Jordan Well, Coventry - Image 1
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Herbert Art Gallery & Museum

4.5
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant cultural hub in Coventry, showcasing diverse art collections, local history, and engaging temporary exhibitions with free admission.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Jordan Well, Coventry - Image 1

Herbert Art Gallery & Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant cultural hub in Coventry, showcasing diverse art collections, local history, and engaging temporary exhibitions with free admission.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A treasure to Coventry, a place full of art and history bringing communities together and offering space for all ages to learn and grow."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Coventry's Story

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.

Reddit
Artistic Expressions

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.

Instagram+1
Lady Godiva's Legacy

Lady Godiva's Legacy

Dedicated Gallery

Uncover the legend of Lady Godiva through dedicated displays, offering a unique glimpse into this iconic Coventry figure.

Reddit
Caribbean Connections

Caribbean Connections

Special Exhibitions

Explore the city's Caribbean presence through archival materials and compelling narratives. A powerful look at community and culture.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Big Impact

Enjoy a wealth of art and history without spending a penny! The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum offers free entry, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for exploring Coventry's cultural heart. Plan your visit to coincide with special exhibitions for a richer experience. TikTok

Parking & Accessibility

While the museum is centrally located, parking can be tricky. Salt Lane car park is a recommended option, though pay-and-display machines can sometimes be out of order. The museum is easily accessible by public transport and is a short walk from the bus station. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
During special exhibitions
Why
Unique and timely displays
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings for events
Why
Silent discos & parties
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#juststopoil protesters target Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in Coventry and scuffle with security
@thelndstandard
134.3K likes • 4.5M views

🎯 Free Entry Advantage

Enjoy the entire museum and its exhibitions at no cost! A fantastic way to experience culture on a budget. TikTokReddit

🅿️ Parking Tips

Salt Lane car park is a good bet. Check opening times as some pay-and-displays can be closed. Reddit

Here’s an idea of how to spend the day in Coventry doing FREE things. 1. Herbert Art Gallery and Museum 2. Coventry Cathedral 3. Walks round the city centre 4. Charity stores #thingstodoincoventry #coventry #freethingstodoincoventry #coventrycity #coventryuk #fyp #viral
@pribodunke
693 likes • 61.3K views
A couple highlighted from a first visit to 'Obsessions, possessions' as part of the @covbiennial
makingandmakingpublic
16 likes • 310 views

☕ Cafe Delights

Grab a bite or a drink at the cafe – reviewers praise the coffee, hot chocolate, and sandwiches. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Central Location

Easily walkable from the bus station and close to Coventry Cathedral. Perfect for a day of exploring. InstagramReddit

🦕 The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum 🦕 Fancy a FREE trip to one of our local museums? Look no further than The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum in Coventry. This museum features a wide range of art collections, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and events, including workshops, talks, and tours. Whilst we were there we took part in th...
adventures_in_redditch
212 likes • 941 views

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. TikTokReddit

🅿️ Parking Tips

Salt Lane car park is a good bet. Check opening times as some pay-and-displays can be closed. Reddit

☕ Cafe Delights

Grab a bite or a drink at the cafe – reviewers praise the coffee, hot chocolate, and sandwiches. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Central Location

Easily walkable from the bus station and close to Coventry Cathedral. Perfect for a day of exploring. InstagramReddit

🎧 Silent Disco Fun

Experience unique events like silent discos for a memorable night out under the exhibits. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

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. Reddit+1

"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

Free admission
Diverse collections
Engaging exhibitions

What People Dislike

Parking challenges

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. Instagram If driving, Salt Lane car park is a recommended option. Reddit

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. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum is very close to the main bus station in Coventry, making it easily accessible via local bus routes. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The great news is that general admission to the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is free! TikTokReddit Some special exhibitions or events may have a separate charge. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Herbert features a diverse range of exhibits, including local history displays, art collections (paintings, sculptures), natural history items, and temporary exhibitions. InstagramReddit

Yes, the museum often hosts workshops and activities suitable for young makers and families, such as macramé classes. Instagram+1 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. Reddit

This exhibition features art that deeply resonated with visitors, offering an inspiring and relatable experience with the artist's work. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the museum has a cafe that is well-regarded by visitors. It's a great spot to relax and refuel. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Being in the city centre, there are numerous restaurants and cafes surrounding the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, offering a wide variety of cuisines. Instagram

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

The 'Caribbean life in Coventry' archives offer visually rich content. Instagram Also, the art collections and the unique setting for events like silent discos provide great photographic moments. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is a fantastic, free option for families looking for an enriching day out. TikTokReddit Beyond the permanent collections that can spark curiosity in young minds, the museum often hosts kid-friendly workshops and activities, such as craft sessions for ages 8-16. Instagram The interactive nature of some exhibits and the dedicated space for local history can make learning fun and engaging for children. Instagram

Pack snacks or plan a stop at the cafe for a convenient refuel. Reddit The central location means it's easy to combine a visit with other family-friendly attractions in Coventry. Instagram Remember to check the museum's events calendar for any specific family programming during your visit.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is a dream come true. General admission is completely free, allowing you to explore a wealth of art and history without spending a penny. TikTokReddit This makes it an ideal stop for anyone looking to experience Coventry's culture affordably. Instagram

Combine your visit with a packed lunch or a budget-friendly meal from the museum's cafe, which offers reasonably priced snacks and drinks. Reddit Its central location also means you can save on transport by walking from the bus station or other nearby city centre points. Instagram

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will find plenty to admire at the Herbert. The museum boasts a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, offering a journey through various artistic periods. Instagram Keep an eye on their schedule for temporary exhibitions, which often feature compelling works from both local and international artists, providing fresh perspectives and exciting discoveries. Instagram+1

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. Reddit The museum's commitment to showcasing contemporary art alongside its permanent collections ensures a rich and varied artistic experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Coventry's Heritage

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is a cornerstone for understanding Coventry's identity. Its local history galleries meticulously chart the city's evolution, from its medieval significance to its role as a powerhouse of industry. Visitors can immerse themselves in artifacts that tell the stories of the people who shaped Coventry, offering a tangible connection to the past. Reddit

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. Instagram This focus ensures that the museum reflects the multifaceted nature of the city's population and history, making it a truly inclusive cultural hub. Reddit

For those interested in local legends, the Lady Godiva gallery offers a dedicated exploration of this iconic figure. Reddit 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. Instagram

Artistic Journeys at The Herbert

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum is not just a repository of history; it's a vibrant space for artistic expression. Its art collections span various periods and styles, featuring paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts that delight art enthusiasts. Instagram The museum actively curates temporary exhibitions, bringing both established and emerging artists to the forefront. Instagram These rotating displays ensure that each visit can offer something new and exciting, from local talent showcases to international retrospectives. TikTok

Visitors have particularly praised exhibitions like 'Jason and the Adventure of 254,' which offered a deeply personal and inspiring connection for many. Reddit The museum also provides opportunities for creative engagement, hosting workshops like macramé wall hanging masterclasses for young makers. Instagram This hands-on approach to art education underscores the Herbert's role in fostering creativity within the community. Instagram

Furthermore, the museum has become a unique venue for events, such as the 'Lost in Sound' silent disco. Instagram This innovative use of space transforms the gallery into an immersive entertainment experience, blending art appreciation with vibrant social gatherings. Reddit

Community and Events

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum actively strives to be a community hub, bringing people together through art, history, and shared experiences. Reddit Its free admission policy makes it an accessible destination for everyone in Coventry and beyond. TikTok The museum frequently hosts events that cater to diverse interests, from family workshops to after-hours parties. Instagram

Events like the silent disco have proven particularly popular, offering a unique way to engage with the museum's collections in a lively atmosphere. InstagramReddit These gatherings not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community and shared enjoyment of the cultural space. Reddit

The museum also has a strong connection with local artists and initiatives, as seen in the 'Caribbean life in Coventry' project. Instagram This collaborative approach ensures that the Herbert remains relevant and reflective of the community it serves, making it a dynamic and evolving cultural institution. Instagram