Cook Street Gate

Cook Street Gate is a medieval stone structure built with thick red sandstone walls and restored crenellated battlements at its top. The passageway runs through the gate, and the stonework shows signs of careful repair work while maintaining its original character from centuries past.

This gate was built in the 14th century as one of several fortified entrances to the walled city of Coventry. Over the centuries, it lost its military purpose but survived as a rare example of the medieval fortifications that once protected the town.

This gate is one of only two remaining medieval city gates in Coventry and shows how the city controlled its main entrances. Walking through it today, you can sense the boundary it once created between the urban center and the surrounding countryside.

The gate is located on a street in the city center and can be visited freely at any time by walking up to it. You can approach it closely and view it from different angles, though the interior passageway may have restricted access depending on current conditions.

An old inn called Ye Old Tower Inn was once built directly into the gate's walls and served as lodging for travelers passing through. A moat once surrounded the gate with a stone bridge providing the only crossing, adding an extra layer of defense to this crucial entrance.

Location: Coventry

Part of: Coventry city walls

GPS coordinates: 52.41200,-1.50842

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:02