Trinity House (formerly Old Blue Coat School)

Step into the past with us as we explore the fascinating history of this building, originally the north-west tower of Coventry’s first cathedral, founded in 1043 by Leofric and Godiva.

After the dissolution of monasteries by Henry VIII, the cathedral fell into disrepair, and the area around the tower became fields and orchards known as the Nave Croft. In 1647, Revd. John Bryan, Vicar of Holy Trinity, leased the tower for 99 years and built a house around it, called the Tower House.

Fast forward to 1855, the Great Rebuilding began, and the Coventry Blue Coat School, the first charity school for girls in Coventry took over the Tower House. The school underwent modernisation and expansion, accommodating girls from the labouring classes aged up to 16, focusing on basic education, domestic service training and providing a good home with a religious atmosphere. Discipline at the school was strict with various punishments for even mild offences.

In 1940, the school closed its doors, and for the next five decades, the building saw various uses, from Coventry City Transport to the Samaritans. In 1998, restoration work began as part of the Phoenix initiative, aimed at revitalising the old Cathedral area.

In 2000, Holy Trinity Church took over the lease, preserving the rich history of this remarkable building.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 13 September:

1100-1500

Location & directions

5A Priory Row, Coventry, West Midlands, CV1 5EX

Directions:

Opposite Primark, off Broadgate. Go up steps past Flying Standard pub and turn left over pedestrian bridge. Trinity House has a green door.

Contact on day:

Tayo Akinsemoyin

Telephone number:

+442476220418

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

25

Est. tour duration:

0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)

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