St Mary's Priory and Cathedral

St Mary's Priory and Cathedral are the remains of a former Benedictine monastery in central Coventry, visible through preserved stone walls and foundations. The layout of its different rooms and chambers can still be traced clearly on the ground.

The monastery was founded in 1043 and later became a cathedral before being destroyed in 1539 during the dissolution of monasteries. This marked the end of five centuries of religious life at the site.

The ruins reveal how medieval religious life was organized through the layout of stone foundations, arches, and underground spaces. Walking through them, you can sense the scale and purpose of the original building that once dominated the city.

The site is freely accessible and can be visited at any time, with daytime offering the best light for exploring. The nearby cathedral visitor center provides additional information and guidance for understanding the layout.

This site holds the only medieval cathedral in England that was completely destroyed during the Reformation and never rebuilt. The contrast between the ancient stones and modern Coventry surrounding them tells a story of loss and continuity.