Historic city venue reopens under new management

The current Drapers' Hall opened in 1832

An historic Coventry venue has reopened under new management.

DH Venues said it wanted to turn Drapers' Hall into "a premier event space" after signing a deal with Historic Coventry Trust, which owns the building.

The management company said Drapers' Hall would host "a wide range of events, from award ceremonies, exhibitions and conferences, to weddings, celebrations and concerts".

The Grade II* listed building, in the Cathedral Quarter, underwent a £5m refurbishment in 2021 after being closed for 30 years.

Since then, it has housed Coventry Music Service, which has used it as a centre for music teaching and performance.

DH Venues said it would continue to host small music events.

Director Chris Hartley, who is also a member of the oversight board for Destination Coventry, said: "This is a venue with incredible heritage and huge potential. We are proud to be taking it on and excited about what we can achieve in this wonderful space."

Drapers' Hall has reopened under new management. Pictured L-R: Kavita Chauhan (Coventry BID), Chris Hartley (DH Venues) and Geoff Willcocks (Historic Coventry Trust)

Joanne Glover, chief executive of Coventry Business Improvement District (BID), said Drapers' Hall was at the heart of the city's heritage and history.

"This is a true 'wow' venue which is perfectly positioned to thrive, providing an incredible backdrop for a vast range of events," she said.

Chairman of Historic Coventry Trust Ian Harrabin said the refurbishment took place in the midst of the Covid pandemic.

"I am really pleased that the events world is now getting back to normal and Drapers' Hall can reach its potential," he said.

The current Drapers' Hall - the third on the site - dates from 1832, when it was built as the headquarters of the Coventry Drapers' Guild.

It survived the bombing in World War Two which devastated the neighbouring cathedral.