It's quite evident that Coventry went through a forced revamp in recent history - it was severely bombed in the 2nd world war and show signs of hasty rebuild. And yet it's an ancient city with it's claim to fame back in the 11th century when Lady Godiva trotted through the town on horseback naked to protest the extortionate taxes her own husband demanded from the residents. See the Wikipedia write-up for the suggested links between this event and the origin of the phrase "Peeping Tom".
Part of the Lady Godiva story is attached to the old cathedral that was damaged in various attacks and wars. The city has successfully managed to maintain the shell of the building and have preserved it, next to the new cathedral, as a monument. It was so touching and real and such a beautiful place.
As we were exploring the old cathedral a graduation ceremony was taking place in the new cathedral. The joy on the faces of the graduands from Coventry University was clearly evident.
After a warming latte in Starbucks(TM) we headed out to Stratford-upon-Avon and straight to the birthplace of The Bard himself: William Shakespeare. The real priceless artefacts on show were incredible and walking through the house and room where he was born was surprisingly emotive; his works in the 16th century have shaped so much of what we know as the English language today. There's more to WS than just Romeo and Juliet. We also went from his childhood home, of a family with a moderate income, to the home of his (and Anne Hathaway's) daughter, Suzanne. A much larger home as her husband was the town doctor. The garden's alone speak of the wealth of the family. Some pretty scary surgical instruments on display though *eww*.
At 16:30 the bells of Trinity church pealed in glorious tune. The place where WS was entombed after his death. The fading light and growing cold signalled time to leave this enchanting town. I will make my way back there in the warmer months on day to explore more fully this picturesque place. Tudor is so retro.
All this manic exploring was followed by equally manic packing: not surprising since the volume of my suitcase had shrunk and the contents to fill the suitcase expanded substantially! After a wonderful breakfast in Leamington an eventful journey home commenced: train to Basingstoke, taxi to the hotel, lift to the house, rest for 2 hours, lift to Heathrow, serious last minute shopping and relaxing in the Club lounge and then boarding and home.
Thanks to all hosts, co-explorers, drivers and companions on this trip. I was exhausted from fun and chatting when I got home. I hope to return the favour soon.
More photos on my Flickr profile.
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