Shops

Coventry has an impressive selection of shopping centres, markets and precincts to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether it’s perusing artisanal produce at Coventry Market or making the most of your student discount at Arena Park or West Orchards shopping areas, you won’t run out of places to shop in this West Midlands city.

Possibly the most interesting place for shopping, however, is FarGo Village, an industrial space in the city centre that has been creatively repurposed and is now home to over 40 independent businesses and vendors. Some of FarGo Village’s best loved treasures include Fantayzia Designs, Olivia Thomas Handmade bath products and candles and the unique gifts and collectibles at Ronnie’s Stuff.

Food

Coventry is the perfect place if you’re looking for great food on a budget. With a large variety of cafes, restaurants and bars, there is something for everyone all within easy reach of the universities and accommodation.

Head to The Pod Café to sample their classic lunch menu with locally grown ingredients, or the Rising Café for some wonderful sweet treats. Chi Bar on High Street offers a more cost-effective and equally tasty alternative to the well-known Japanese eateries, whereas The Phoenix features an excellent selection of sandwiches, burgers and other pub favourites with regular deals.

Music

Coventry has a large musical offering, with large-scale venues like the Ricoh Arena and Coventry Empire showcasing some of the biggest names in music.

You’ll also be able to enjoy live music right in the heart of the student’s unions, with Coventry University housing the Acoustic Music Society and the University of Warwick’s Student Union hosting regular concerts.

Nightlife

It may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Coventry, but the city is full of great places for students looking for a good night. The Kasbah is the perfect bar for that big night out, with regular events and cheap drinks deals, whereas the Aardvark is great for a quiet pint with friends.

Other top venues in Coventry include Samoan Joes, a Tiki Bar known for its amazing cocktails and often frequented by celebrities, and the city’s largest club, JJ’s.

Culture

With its rich selection of dance, theatre, museums and galleries, it’s hardly surprising that Coventry is the UK’s City of Culture 2021! From The Coventry Music Museum, to the landmark Belgrade Theatre, there is always something to entertain and inspire.

Coventry is also home to The Lunt Roman Fort, a fully excavated turf and timber fort that has been partially restored to reveal the only gyrus in the Roman Empire. A visit to this piece of history is sure to uncover some of the most exciting stories in British history, including that of the Iceni of East Anglia, led by Boudicca.

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