Swanswell Gate
A medieval gatehouse transformed into a unique Airbnb, offering a historic stay in Coventry's city centre.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms frame the gate beautifully
Swanswell Gate
Best Time
Blossoms frame the gate beautifully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A medieval gatehouse transformed into a unique Airbnb, offering a historic stay in Coventry's city centre.
"A truly unique experience, highly recommend booking a couple of nights here!"
Unique Airbnb Stay
Book a night or two in the converted gatehouse for a truly unique experience! :key:
Explore the Remaining Gates
Visit both Swanswell and Cook Street Gates to see Coventry's medieval past. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Gatehouse Accommodation
Swanswell Gate
Stay in a medieval gatehouse, transformed into a quirky and unique Airbnb. A truly memorable experience!
Medieval Architecture
Swanswell Gate
Marvel at this surviving medieval gate, a testament to Coventry's extensive city walls.
Spring Blossom Views
Surrounding Lady Herbert's Garden
Enjoy stunning cherry blossoms framing the historic gate during springtime.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Unique Stays
Explore Coventry's Medieval Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Unique Airbnb Stay
Book a night or two in the converted gatehouse for a truly unique experience! :key:
Explore the Remaining Gates
Visit both Swanswell and Cook Street Gates to see Coventry's medieval past. :world_map:
Springtime Beauty
Catch the stunning cherry blossoms around the gate in spring. :cherry_blossom:
Central Location
Conveniently located near shops, restaurants, and pubs. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
Unique Airbnb Stay
Book a night or two in the converted gatehouse for a truly unique experience! :key:
Explore the Remaining Gates
Visit both Swanswell and Cook Street Gates to see Coventry's medieval past. :world_map:
Springtime Beauty
Catch the stunning cherry blossoms around the gate in spring. :cherry_blossom:
Central Location
Conveniently located near shops, restaurants, and pubs. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Swanswell Gate for its incredibly unique accommodation and central location, making it easy to access dining and attractions. It's described as a 'great find' and a 'lovely location' for a memorable stay, though some mention the stairs can be a bit challenging.
"Central location, great find. Easy reach of places to eat and drink."
Brian Johnston
"It is hard to give this place 5* because I have not spent much time there. The idea of the old tower transformed into a room is very interesting. The place is really close to the city center of Coventry."
Petr “Švany” Švancar
"Nice walk from the canal basin to the two remaining Coventry City gates."
Matthew Moore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Swanswell Gate is centrally located in Coventry city centre, making it easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and Coventry train station is a short walk away. If driving, there are several car parks in the vicinity.
Yes, Swanswell Gate is very walkable from many city centre attractions, including shops, restaurants, and the canal basin. It's a pleasant walk to see the other remaining gate, Cook Street Gate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Swanswell Gate is an external historical monument and can be viewed from the outside at any time. If you wish to stay in the unique Airbnb accommodation within the gatehouse, booking is essential and should be done well in advance. 
Historically, tours have been offered during events like Heritage Open Days, often in conjunction with restoration efforts. Keep an eye on the Historic Coventry Trust's announcements for future opportunities.
As a historical monument, Swanswell Gate itself doesn't have set opening hours for viewing from the outside. The accommodation within has its own check-in and check-out times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main draw is experiencing the unique accommodation if you book a stay. Otherwise, admire the medieval architecture and its historical significance as one of Coventry's surviving city gates. It's also a picturesque spot during cherry blossom season.
Absolutely! Swanswell Gate offers great photographic opportunities, especially with the surrounding spring blossoms or the unique architecture itself. It's a popular spot for local photographers.
Completed around 1440, Swanswell Gate was originally known as Priory Gate and served as an entrance to the prior's land. It's one of only two remaining gates from the original twelve that formed Coventry's extensive medieval walls.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Swanswell Gate is located in Coventry city centre, which has a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and pubs within easy walking distance. You'll find options to suit all tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light for photography. Springtime is particularly popular due to the cherry blossoms that frame the gate beautifully.
You can capture the impressive medieval architecture, the unique Airbnb setting, and the surrounding natural elements like the spring blossoms. It's a great spot for historical and architectural photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the stairs can be a bit awkward, the novelty factor is high. The central location means easy access to other family-friendly activities and eateries in Coventry. Exploring the gate from the outside is a free and educational activity. You can talk about knights, castles, and medieval times, bringing history to life. The nearby Lady Herbert's Garden also provides a pleasant green space for children to enjoy, especially during spring when the blossoms are out.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider booking a stay in the converted gatehouse for an immersive historical experience. This allows for a deeper appreciation of the structure and its transformation. Researching Coventry's medieval history before your visit will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of this significant landmark.
📸 Photographers
+1Experiment with different angles and lighting conditions. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light. Don't forget to capture reflections on wet pavements after rain for added visual interest. The surrounding urban landscape also offers opportunities for contrasting shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Night in Medieval History: The Swanswell Gate Airbnb
This conversion is part of a larger initiative by the Historic Coventry Trust to bring the city's historic buildings back into use, making them accessible and sustainable. The project has received support from various heritage and local government bodies, highlighting the commitment to preserving and revitalizing Coventry's rich architectural heritage.
+1Booking this unique stay is highly recommended well in advance, as it's a popular choice for those seeking an unforgettable experience in Coventry. It offers a distinct alternative to standard hotel stays and provides a tangible connection to the city's medieval past.
Coventry's Medieval Defenses: The Last Gates
These gates were not just defensive structures but also symbols of the city's status and prosperity during the medieval period. Swanswell Gate, in particular, was known as Priory Gate and marked an important entrance to the lands of the priory. Its survival is a testament to its robust construction and the efforts to preserve Coventry's historical landmarks.
Visiting both Swanswell and Cook Street Gates offers a tangible glimpse into Coventry's medieval layout and its historical significance. It's a journey back in time, allowing visitors to appreciate the scale of the ancient city walls and the importance of these gateways.
Capturing Swanswell Gate: Photography Tips
+1For the best shots, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – when the light is softer and more flattering. The reflections on wet pavements after rain can also add a dramatic element to your photos, as captured by some local photographers.
Beyond the gate itself, the proximity to other city centre attractions means you can incorporate urban elements into your photography. Whether you're focusing on architectural details, seasonal beauty, or the gate's historical context, Swanswell Gate offers diverse photographic opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit