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Coventry EnglandINTRODUCTION A little over 20 miles from Birmingham and less than 20 miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, Coventry has a very accessible location perfect for a daytrip or as a home base for your stay in England. That region of England has been putting a lot of energy into promoting tourism, so take advantage of the tourist centers. Besides the historic buildings and fascinating stories, Coventry has a wide variety of shopping opportunities—anything from department stores to small boutiques. HISTORY Coventry has a history full of legends, speculations and art. For instance, St. George (the one who slayed the dragon) was supposedly born in Coventry. George Eliot based the town in her famous novel Middlemarch on Coventry, where she lived for some time. The colorful legend of Lady Godiva, the spirited 11th-century woman who rode on horseback through Coventry naked in order to convince her husband to lower taxes, is most likely just that: a legend. The first stories of her ride appear about a century after it supposedly took place, and it seems unreasonable that such abnormal behavior by a member of the nobility would go unmentioned by people at the time, especially if it did affect the tax rate. Still, this fascinating story, with many renditions in both story and art, adds to Coventry’s mystique. The haunting melody of the Coventry Carol (“Lully, lullay, Thou little tiny Child / Bye, bye, lully, lullay”) first premiered in a mystery play performed in Coventry in the 16th century. It tells of King Herod’s Massacre of the Innocents, when the jealous king sought to kill the baby Jesus by ordering death for all boys under two. This is the only surviving song from the play, but even today it is played around the world every Christmas. The town itself goes back to Roman times, when the Romans brought captured horses from Boudicca’s forces to the area for retraining. In the 11th century, Earl Leofric and his wife (the real) Lady Godiva generously funded St. Michael’s Benedictine monastery. They provided land for the raising of sheep, which led to Coventry’s abundant wool trade. A bishop moved to Coventry in the early 12th century, making the monastery a cathedral. Coventry grew and became an importance city during the Middle Ages. During the War of the Roses, Coventry even hosted Parliament. Henry VIII dissolved many monasteries during his reign, including the one in Coventry. This hurt the city enormously, and the population shrank. Later, silk overtook Coventry’s wool trade and revived the city. The blitz of WWII destroyed St. Michael’s Cathedral as well as much of the city center. Only parts of the cathedral’s outer walls remained. The people of Coventry decided to rebuild next to the old cathedral and the new cathedral has focused its ministry on reconciliation ever since. ATTRACTIONS St. Michael's Cathedral in Coventry RESTAURANTS Turmeric Gold – At this fine Indian restaurant, the chefs strive to create flavorful, authentic dishes with the least amount of oil, salt and artificial coloring possible. Though the menu is extensive, if you want something not listed, they will do their best to make it for you. Thai Dusit – This roomy Thai restaurant has something for everyone. The menu indicates a dish’s spice level, has plenty of vegetarian options, discounts for takeaways, set and express lunch choices and lots of desserts with which to cool your palate. LODGING MacDonald Antsy Hall Hotel – Though part of a chain, this hotel, a 17th-century hall, offers spacious rooms and great customer service. The accommodations range from traditional rooms to extravagant suites with beautiful views and free-standing tubs. The room service menu includes everything from a cup of coffee with shortbread to pumpkin ravioli with sage butter and even has a page of selections for children (the “Young Persons Menu”). PERSONAL STORIES 
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