Swanswell Gate
Swanswell Gate, Hales Street, Coventry, West Midlands, CV1 1JA
Coventry's City Wall was completed between 1356 and 1534 - just over two miles long, 12 feet high and nine feet thick. It was punctuated with 20 watch towers and 12 gates, each set into a gatehouse. The only two remaining are Cook Street Gate, completed in 1385, and Swanswell Gate, completed in 1440. Cook Street Gate was given to the City of Coventry in 1913 by Col Sir William Wyley and in 1931, the same year that Lady Herbert's Garden opened, Swanswell Gate was given by Sir Alfred Herbert. Historic Coventry Trust acquired both gatehouses in 2020, and restored the buildings, removing them from the Heritage at Risk register. In addition to sympathetic repairs, each gate has been internally adapted to holiday apartments, giving guests the opportunity to closely experience a special part of the city’s history. The visit consists of a self-guided tour with volunteers on hand to answer questions. Please note there are steep stairs at both properties.
Timings
- Sunday 20 September:
- 1300-1600
Location & directions
Swanswell Gate, Hales Street, Coventry, West Midlands, CV1 1JA
- Directions:
- The gates are located in Lady Herbert's Garden
- Contact on day:
- Jennie Rutte
- Telephone number:
- +442475270337
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
Steep stairs
Additional information
- Max number of people:
- 20
