Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Discover Art & History at Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in Coventry
Established in 1960, the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum stands as Coventry's premier cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing art, history, and heritage. Our extensive collections span archaeology, social history, visual arts, and natural history, offering visitors a comprehensive journey through Coventry's rich past and vibrant present. With world-class exhibitions, interactive displays, and educational programs, we provide engaging experiences for all ages.Our team of award-winning professionals delivers immersive learning opportunities, while our archives serve as a vital resource for historical research. Named after industrialist Sir Alfred Herbert, we combine historical significance with contemporary relevance, operating in partnership with national museums and local communities to ensure accessibility and cultural enrichment for everyone.
Services
Art exhibitions
Historical collections
Educational workshops
Archival research
Family events
Details
- Year established: 1960
Highlights and features
- We offer world-class exhibitions spanning art, history, and natural science.
- Our collections include over 300,000 objects from medieval to contemporary periods.
- We provide award-winning educational programs for schools and families.
- We maintain Coventry Archives, a vital resource for historical research.
- Our central location offers easy access to Coventry Cathedral and city centre.
What people say
Excellent family-friendly exhibits
Rich historical collections
Interactive displays for children
Beautiful art galleries
Knowledgeable staff
Services
Art exhibitions
Our rotating art exhibitions showcase British life and landscape paintings, cathedral tapestries, and contemporary works. Visitors explore pieces from the 1500s to present day, including Luca Giordano's 'Bacchus and Ariadne'. The galleries feature dedicated spaces for temporary exhibitions and special collections.
Historical collections
Permanent history galleries trace Coventry's development from medieval times through World War II to modern day. Highlights include watchmaking and ribbon weaving exhibits, Blitz-era artefacts, and the 'Discover Godiva' interactive display featuring historic paintings of Lady Godiva.
Educational programs
Award-winning educational programs cater to schools, families, and special interest groups. Our team delivers immersive workshops, guided tours, and alternative provision training. Resources include hands-on historical materials, digital learning tools, and specialist sessions for diverse learning needs.
Archival research
Coventry Archives provide access to historical documents, photographs, maps, and journals dating back to the city's medieval period. Researchers use our reading rooms for family history, local studies, and academic research, with specialist staff assistance available for document interpretation.
Family events
Family-friendly programming includes interactive workshops, sensory play days, and themed events. Activities combine art, history, and creativity for children aged 0-15, with special sessions during school holidays and weekends. Most family events require separate booking and fees.
People
Sir Alfred Herbert
Founder
Local industrialist who donated 100,000 in 1938 to establish Coventry's art gallery and museum. His vision created a lasting cultural legacy for the city, with the museum opening in 1960 following his death in 1957.
Lady Herbert
Inaugural patron
Widow of Sir Alfred Herbert who officially opened the museum in 1960. She ensured her husband's vision for Coventry's cultural development was realised through the establishment of the art gallery and museum complex.
Questions
What are the Herbert's admission fees?
Day passes start at £2 for adults, with free entry for Go CV+ cardholders and children. Annual passes offer unlimited visits at discounted rates.
Can I visit the museum shop without paying entry?
Yes, the museum shop is free to access via the Box Office. No admission fee is required for shop-only visits.
Are there dining options available?
Baxter Baristas coffee shop operates independently with courtyard access. Museum visitors receive discounted refreshments through pre-booked arrangements.
How accessible is the museum for disabled visitors?
We provide wheelchair access, baby changing facilities, and accessible toilets. Essential carers receive free entry with appropriate documentation.
Can I book group visits?
Group packages start from £3 per person for parties of 12+. Includes guided tours, coach parking, and shop discounts. Pre-booking is essential.
What special events are available?
We host changing exhibitions, family workshops, and cultural events throughout the year, including the Coventry Biennial and seasonal activities.
