Coventry Castle

Caesar's Tower is the last remaining stone structure from a fortress founded around 1100, now integrated into St Mary's Guildhall at Bayley Lane in central Coventry. The tower has multiple levels, with the ground floor housing a treasury space and upper stories containing historically significant rooms.

Founded around 1100 by Hugh d'Avranches, the fortress gained strategic importance during the 1140s civil conflict between King Stephen and Empress Matilda. This power struggle shaped its development and left marks on the town that lasted for generations.

The tower takes its name from a later era, though the exact origin of this label remains unclear. Today it stands visibly integrated into St Mary's Guildhall, creating a distinctive stone presence within the city center's architecture.

Access is through St Mary's Guildhall in the city center, which is easily reached on foot. Expect narrow passages and steep stairs inside, as the tower has multiple levels within an older building structure.

Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner in the upper chamber in 1569, a pivotal moment linking Scottish and English royal history within these walls. Few visitors realize this tower hosted one of Europe's most consequential captivities of that era.

Location: Coventry

GPS coordinates: 52.40740,-1.50793

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:46