Medieval guildhall wins third Tripadvisor award

The 700-year-old building is open year-round for visitors to experience its rich history

A Coventry landmark has been named among the top 10% experiences globally by Tripadvisor, ranked alongside the Eiffel Tower and Colosseum.

St Mary's Guildhall, a Grade I listed building on Bayley Lane, has received the Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award for the third year in a row thanks to its consistently positive reviews.

The 14th Century building, in the city's Cathedral Quarter, reopened in 2022 after a two-year restoration project costing £5m, and has since welcomed thousands more visitors.

Abi Moore, heritage and venue manager at St Mary's, said retaining the accolade was a "testament" to its team who work hard to make it an inspiring visitor attraction.

Built in 1342, the building has been used as an English Civil War armoury and a Victorian soup kitchen, and has welcomed the likes of Mary Queen of Scots and other royals.

The 700-year-old building is open year-round for heritage visits, private tours, dining and events. It also hosts exhibitions and other activities.

St Mary's is also known for the Coventry Tapestry, which is believed to be among the oldest in Britain.

Ms Moore said: "It's a privilege to see so many people engaging with the remarkable stories contained within these walls - from medieval merchants to royal visitors.

"We're so proud to be part of Coventry's cultural landscape and to receive this recognition from our visitors is incredibly special."