Christmas is a time for families to come together and create cherished memories.
Coventry city centre offers a wide range of enchanting Christmas events that are perfect for families looking to celebrate the season and spend some quality time with the little ones while school is out!
From meeting Santa to exploring Christmas markets and witnessing magical performances, Coventry has it all. In this guide, we’ll take you through the most delightful family events in Coventry city centre this Christmas.
Big Wheel in the Coventry City Centre
Coventry’s Big Wheel in the city centre provides a fun and picturesque way to take in the lights and sights of the Christmas season. At well over 100ft in the air, families can hop on board and enjoy breath-taking views of the city’s skyline adorned with festive decorations and the three spires.
This experience is especially magical in the evening when the city’s Christmas lights twinkle below. It’s a perfect activity for families seeking a little thrill and excitement during the festivities.
Meet Santa & VR Sleigh Ride at West Orchards Shopping Centre
West Orchards has something truly special in store for families this Christmas.
Children of all ages can experience the magic of meeting Santa Claus in a charming and festive setting after taking his sleigh for a test drive!
Located on level 3 of the shopping centre, West Orchards is taking the Santa experience to the next level with an exciting VR Sleigh Ride that promises a thrilling adventure around the world for young and old alike. This immersive 4D experience seats 8 and so is perfect for families big or small.
The combination of traditional charm and modern technology creates an unforgettable Christmas memory.
The Coventry Transport Museum is another wonderful place to meet Santa.
From Saturday 5th to Wednesday 23rd December on selected dates, meet Santa and ride in his vintage sleigh. And this year will be even more special as the Transport Museum celebrates the Vintage Sleigh’s 70th anniversary, with a 1950s “Driving Home for Christmas” theme.
The experience will feature 1950s-inspired Christmas décor, vintage cars and plenty of festive touches throughout.
Your visit includes a trip to the Elves’ Toy Shop to choose a Christmas gift and a Christmas goody bag for each child.
It’s a magical opportunity to create lasting memories in a unique setting that celebrates the city’s rich transport heritage.
For a truly magical and historic Christmas experience, transport your family to the beautifully decorated medieval setting of St Mary’s Guildhall.
Here, you can join Father Christmas and his merry helpers for an intimate and enchanting Storytelling with Father Christmas session. Imagine your little ones wide-eyed as Santa shares one of his favourite festive tales in the magnificent Great Hall!
The experience includes gingerbread decorating and children’s crafts, making it a perfectly rounded festive treat that will create unique and lasting family memories.
Belgrade Theatre in Coventry celebrates Christmas in style, offering delightful family-friendly pantomimes each year that are perfect for the winter season and are a beloved tradition for many.
This year, immerse yourself in the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast with all the enchantment, humour, and magic you’d expect from this beloved story.
It promises laughter, joy, and a memorable family experience.
This Christmas Planet Ice is holding a magical ice-skating show, Jack & the Beanstalk on Ice.
Talented skaters and local amateurs bring the classic tale to life – with spectacular performances, dazzling costumes, and enchanting choreography – making it a wonderful event for families.
FarGo Village is a vibrant and creative hub in Coventry, and during the festive season, it puts on a Makers Market full of independent retailers selling various treats, Christmas goodies, clothes, and more.
Christmas markets at FarGo Village are a perfect place to find unique gifts, local crafts, and delicious food.
The atmosphere is lively, with carol singers, street food stalls, and a sense of community that embodies the spirit of Christmas. Bring your family to soak in the festive vibes, do some shopping, and enjoy the unique, small businesses that call FarGo Village home.
Christmas Market in Broadgate
Broadgate, in the heart of Coventry city centre, is the place to be for a classic Christmas market experience.
The market is a treasure trove of festive delights, with stalls offering handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and mulled wine. The scent of warm bratwursts fills the air, and the joyful atmosphere is infectious.
Families can wander through the stalls, enjoying the sights and sounds of a traditional Christmas market, making it an ideal place to find those unique and thoughtful gifts.
Fun Zones: Where Families Can Play All Day
After all the shopping and traditional festive activities, sometimes kids just need to burn off that Christmas excitement! Luckily, Coventry city centre is packed with exciting indoor attractions that are perfect for keeping the whole family entertained, no matter the weather.
Star Pins: Legendary Lanes & Games
Located in West Orchards Shopping Centre, Star Pins is Coventry’s ultimate entertainment hub.
It’s a brilliant place for a family showdown with its state-of-the-art Ten Pin bowling lanes (complete with ramps and automatic bumpers for the little ones!) and brightly coloured Mini Golf.
But the fun doesn’t stop there… families can also try ice-free curling, tech darts, and a wide array of arcade games. With a great menu of pizza, hot dogs, and slushies, Star Pins provides a vibrant and affordable gaming experience for all ages, making it a perfect spot to spend a chilly afternoon.
For high-energy fun, head to Flip Out, Coventry’s epic indoor adventure park.
Dive into a HUGE arena packed with attractions like Dodgems, Laser Tag, Drift Trikes, and a Roller Rink! There’s even a dedicated soft play area to keep the littlest adventurers (ages 5 and under) entertained.
With a range of attractions for one entry price, Flip Out guarantees hours of action and laughter, making it the ideal spot for kids and teens to let loose during the Christmas school holidays.
Inject some light-hearted competition into your family day out at Putt Putt Social.
Its unique and immersive Asian-themed crazy golf courses are an absolute blast for the whole family. The courses are fun, challenging, and filled with colourful artwork that makes for great photos.
The low-pressure, engaging activity is perfect for bonding, and you can reward your champions (or commiserate with the losers!) with delicious Pan-Asian street food and bubble teas afterwards.
Coventry city centre is a hub of festive activities, catering to families looking to create magical and heart-warming memories this Christmas.
Whether you want to watch your children’s face light up with joy as they meet Santa or immerse yourself in the true spirit of Christmas by wandering through the market and browsing the festive goodies, Coventry has something for everyone.
And don’t forget to take a spin on the Big Wheel and stop by the panto too!
This Christmas, Coventry City Centre promises to be the perfect backdrop for unforgettable family experiences and celebrations, with non-stop fun to keep you and yours busy making memories and entertained.
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A Festive Guide to Christmas Shopping in Coventry City Centre
Christmas is the season of giving and whether you’ve planned, budgeted, and wrapped by December 1st, or you’re more of the last-minute grab-and-go type, this guide will be your best friend when the time comes.
With its diverse range of stores, Coventry offers something for everyone on your Christmas shopping list.
In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through the heart of Coventry, exploring various shopping categories to help you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.
The Perfume Shop: Fragrances are a classic and cherished gift, and always a safe bet. The Perfume Shop stocks a wide selection of scents for men and women. Whether you’re looking for popular brands or unique niche perfumes, you’re sure to find a fragrance that will make your loved one’s Christmas.
The Body Shop: The Body Shop offers a range of sustainable beauty products. From skincare to makeup, you’ll find an array of items that are perfect for stocking fillers. Their gift sets are beautifully wrapped, making them a convenient choice for the holiday season. Recommendation: their Body Butters are top tier!
Boots: Boots is a go-to destination for beauty and healthcare products. You can find a wide range of cosmetics and personal care items, making it an ideal stop for finding stocking fillers that cater to different tastes and preferences. They have an extensive range of mini products, perfect for grabbing a couple of new products for your person to try out!
Waterstones: For the bookworm in your life, Waterstones is a treasure trove. From bestsellers to niche titles, you can pick out books that will warm hearts and ignite imaginations. Don’t forget to check out their beautiful stationery and bookish merchandise for additional stocking fillers.
Lush: Lush is a haven for those seeking fun and top-quality bath bombs, shower gels, and handmade cosmetics. The scents of lush products alone are enough to make for a delightful treat, not to mention they’re also eco-friendly! Their holiday-themed products are a must, with flavours and colours that capture the festive spirit. Head to Lower Precinct Shopping Centre.
For the Little Ones: Toys
The Entertainer: A fantastic destination for children’s toys, games, and gadgets. The Entertainer stocks all the latest crazes and beloved classics, ensuring you’ll find something exciting for every child on your list.
GAME: Tucked just upstairs inside Sports Direct, you’ll find a whole host of entertainment in GAME – from the latest devices to their favourite plushie characters – their stockings will have never been so stuffed with amazing gifts!
Primark: Pick up their Disney favourites, stock up on sensory gifts, and grab some bargain games at Primark. Not just a clothing haven, you can find some brilliant toys here too, ideal for all ages and interests.
For the Fitness Lover: Sports Wear
JD Sports: When it comes to sports and athleisure wear, JD Sports should be your first stop. They offer a wide range of athletic apparel, footwear, and accessories from popular brands such as Nike, Adidas and so much more. Whether you’re shopping for a fitness enthusiast or someone who loves a comfortable and stylish look, JD has you covered.
Foot Locker: Foot Locker is another fantastic option for trainers and athleisure. They carry the latest releases and classic styles from renowned brands. Whether you’re into basketball shoes or running gear, Foot Locker has the perfect gifts for gym-goers & sports lovers.
Footasylum: Footasylum is another top choice, known for its trendy sportswear and streetwear collections, it’s the place to go for stylish and urban-inspired apparel, making it a great choice for fashion-forward individuals who appreciate sporty look.
Sports Direct: If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for sports gear, Sports Direct is the place to be. They offer a vast range of sports equipment, clothing, and accessories. If you’re stuck for inspiration, rest assured, you’ll find a variety of options here.
For the Cosy Nights in: Sleepwear
Primark: Primark is known for having trendy clothes that won’t break the bank, and when it comes to pyjamas and loungewear, they are no exception! You can find cute & cosy options to keep your loved ones warm and snuggly during the winter season.
New Look: New Look features a diverse collection of nightwear, including pyjama sets, robes, and slippers. Their designs cater to various tastes, from classic and comfortable to trendy and stylish.
H&M: If you’re the family who rocks matching Christmas Eve pyjamas, H&M has everything you need. With a range of festive children’s, women’s & men’s sleepwear, you’ll find everything you need at H&M.
River Island: River Island is known for its fashionable nightwear and loungewear. They offer trendy and chic options for those who want to feel stylish even when they’re relaxing at home.
Peacocks: Peacocks offers a range of affordable nightwear options. Their cosy and comfortable pieces are perfect for staying during the cold nights.
For One to Remember: Designer Items
Francis & Gaye: Francis & Gaye is a high-end watch and jewellery store. If you’re looking for a luxurious gift to make someone’s Christmas extra special, their selection of designer watches and jewellery is sure to impress. These timeless pieces are perfect for treating your loved ones during the holiday season.
Flannels: Flannels is a fashion boutique that stocks a curated collection of designer clothing, shoes, and accessories. If you’re looking to surprise someone, Flannels offers a wide range of luxury brands and statement pieces that will surely do the trick. C.P. Company, Gucci, Prada, Alexander McQueen and more available.
CV1: For the fashion-lover in your life, CV1 is a designer streetwear store. It’s a great place to find unique and trendy designer items that can be hard to come across otherwise.
For a Festive Treat: Food
Marks and Spencer: Marks and Spencer is a well-known destination for gourmet food and fine wine. You can create custom hampers or choose from their pre-made gift selections, perfect for those who appreciate culinary delights and don’t forget your Christmas food.
Sainsbury’s: Sainsbury’s offers a variety of food and drink options. You can find everything from festive snacks and sweets to quality wines and spirits, making it easy to put together a delectable gift.
Iceland: Iceland is a frozen food specialist, and they have a fantastic range of party food, desserts, and treats. Their frozen selection can make for convenient and tasty gift options, especially for busy holiday gatherings.
One for Anyone and Anything: Vouchers
Turtle Bay: Treat your loved ones to a Caribbean culinary adventure with a voucher from Turtle Bay. Their Caribbean-inspired dishes and cocktails promise a memorable dining experience- perfect if they love a good time and trying new food.
Cosy Club: The Cosy Club offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal or drinks. A voucher for here would be perfect for your work-a-holic friend or someone who’s always on the go!
Mana Spa: Mana Spa offers the gift of relaxation and rejuvenation. A spa voucher is a thoughtful present for someone in need of pampering and self-care. We all know someone who could use a day like this but would never think to treat themselves.
St Mary’s Guildhall: St Mary’s Guildhall is a historic and enchanting venue in Coventry. A voucher for afternoon tea or dining, can be a unique and memorable gift.
Telegraph Hotel: The Telegraph Hotel is a stylish and contemporary hotel in Coventry. A voucher for a stay or dining experience at this modern establishment is perfect for those who appreciate luxury and deserve a night off!
Make the Most of Coventry City Centre This Christmas
We hope this guide has shown you that you don’t need to travel far to find the best gifts for your loved ones this Christmas, Coventry has everything you need and now you know where to look!
The city centre offers a diverse array of shopping options whether you’re hunting for a designer watch, comfy pyjamas or vouchers for memorable experiences, Coventry has something for everyone.
This festive season, explore the heart of Coventry and make your Christmas shopping a joyful experience filled with wonderful surprises for your loved ones.
COVENTRY PREPARES TO ‘TURN BACK TIME’ AGAIN AS THE ‘AUTUMN IS QUEER’ FESTIVAL RETURNS FOR 2026
Coventry is gearing up for a vibrant, city-wide celebration of self-acceptance and inclusivity as Autumn Is Queer returns for its second year, running from September 22nd to November 30th 2026.
Produced by Extraordinary Us CIC with support from Coventry City Council and Arts Council England, this year’s festival theme, Coventry: Feeling Proud, honours both the city’s civic pride and the LGBTQ+ ethos of radical inclusion: “Coventry loves you as you are.”
PHOTO credit – @photogempic
The festival’s highlight event, “Cher The News,” takes place on Sunday, October 25th – the day the clocks turn back time (by one hour) – as Coventry city centre transforms into “Cher-ventry,” the (un)official European home of Cher. This major community celebration will bring together participants, choirs, bands, and performers to dress up as Cher, featuring pop-up performances, interactive interventions, and plenty of iconic wigs. Creative partners include Highly Sprung, Fitness With Matt, and The Tin Music & Arts.
If Cher-ventrians want to don a wig and turn back time then organisers are calling on local residents, performers, and Cher enthusiasts of all backgrounds to join the fun for ‘Cher The News’ on Sunday, October 25th.
Whether you want to perform, sing, or simply dress up as your favourite Cher, you can sign up or find out more by visiting autumnisqueer.co.uk/cher-the-news or emailing hello@extraordinaryus.co.uk.
Extraordinary Us also offers at the CBS Arena under the header ‘Feeling Proud’, the “Museum of Me: City Till I Die” community pop-up structure celebrates Coventry City Football Club fans through thick and thin, featuring stories from the co-founder of the Proud Sky Blues fan group.
Outside of this – over 40 events across the CV postcode region bring together local venues, cultural spaces, and nightlife. Highlights include drag brunches at The Yard, tributes to iconic pop stars, and the British Art Show – A Chorus Of Strangers. You’ll also find Dogoween at FarGo Village, Tease at Albany Theatre, and Congregational by Fatt Butcher at Warwick Arts Centre.
In Autumn, Coventry is the place to LGB and T and Q and +.
Local businesses and allies can support the festival through corporate partnerships, found on the website.
Coventry City Centre is having a moment – and we’re here to tell you that it’s only getting better.
Whether you live, work or shop in Coventry, there’s plenty to get excited about – from experiencing fresh, new flavours to discovering your next cultural hangout.
New Places to Eat in Coventry City Centre
With a wave of new openings already transforming the food and entertainment scene, plus even more exciting venues arriving in 2026, the heart of the city is evolving fast.
To help you keep up, here’s your guided tour of what’s brand new and what’s on the horizon.
Front and centre of the city, Olive Tree brings a vibrant taste of the Turkish Mediterranean to Coventry.
Think rustic, colourful plates piled high with charcoal grilled meats, freshly prepared mezes, stuffed vegetables, and homely comfort dishes that feel like they’ve come straight from someone’s family kitchen.
The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and authentically mediterranean – perfect for relaxed lunches, family dinners, or long, chatty evenings over a bottle of wine. Early visitors are already praising the generous portions, friendly service, and the sense of calm the space brings to the busy centre.
Olive Tree is fast becoming a favourite for anyone who enjoys big flavours and a sociable vibe.
Get ready for a major new dining experience in Coventry, because Daiu has opened in Cathedral Lanes.
This exciting venue brings something fresh to the city centre: an interactive BBQ and hotpot buffet where you can select premium grilled meats and simmering hotpots, before complementing your feast with sushi, dim sum, appetisers, sides and more.
At Daiu, the focus is on choice and flavours. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast, hotpot fan, or simply love exploring hearty, flavour-rich food with friends, Daiu promises a social, fun and full-of-flavour experience for 2026.
Coventry’s food scene has welcomed a bold injection of Korean flavour with Ssamm, and it’s exactly the kind of modern, exciting spot the city has been craving.
Expect Korean BBQ-inspired dishes, sizzling bowls, and sides built around spice, texture, and freshness.
The décor is cool and contemporary, giving it that ‘Instagram-able but also cosy’ balance. It’s ideal for groups, after-work dinners, or trying something fun on a night out. Ssamm hasn’t been open long, yet it’s already making waves as one of the most distinctive new eateries in the centre.
Find it: 58 Hertford St, Coventry
Venues coming soon in 2026
With these recent openings bringing new vibrance to the city centre, 2026 is lining up to be even bigger.
Here’s what to look forward to as the new year unfolds.
Wingstop
Expected around January 2026, Wingstop is already attracting attention.
Known and revered for its wide range of wing flavours, stacked sides and fun, casual dining style, it’s spot in the city centre is ideal for quick lunches, after-work eats, or a cheeky weekend treat.
Expect it to be busy in the first few weeks – Coventry has a soft spot for good chicken, and this brand is ready to deliver.
Find it: 47 Upper Precinct, Coventry
New Dessert Shops on Corporation Street
Corporation Street is shaping up to be one of Coventry’s sweetest hotspots.
In 2026, a handful of new dessert shops are set to open their doors, bringing everything from indulgent pastries to late-night treats and grab-and-go goodies.
These new arrivals will add even more variety to the city centre’s food landscape, tempting shoppers to explore further to satisfy their sweet tooth.
Find it: Corporation Street, Coventry
Street Kitchen Cov
West Orchards is stepping up its food game with the arrival of Street Kitchen Cov – a brand-new cluster of four street-food style units that promise global flavours, quick eats, and a modern approach to city centre dining.
Launching around Easter 2026, it’s set to become a popular stop for families, students, workers and weekend visitors looking for something fast, tasty and different.
This new concept is guaranteed to keep things fresh and give small but mighty food businesses a platform in one of the city’s busiest locations. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Find it: West Orchards Shopping Centre, Coventry
Coventry City Centre keeps evolving
With so many new eateries and fresh concepts popping up across the map, Coventry City Centre is constantly evolving.
Expect 2026 to bring even more excitement and variety – making the city a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch, planning an evening out, or simply exploring what’s new, 2026 is already shaping up to be a standout year.
DASH is back and ready to prepare for Christmas at West Orchards shopping centre, along with a very special visitor. Hold on to your antlers Coventry as Santa Claus is coming to town!
West Orchards have built Santa’s Sleigh lodge especially for their special visitor. Head up to the lodge on level 3 and you will be greeted by Santa himself as he welcomes you to the Magical Sleigh Ride VR experience.
Jump on in and take a ride on Santa’s Magical Sleigh as you help him to test drive the sleigh ahead of Christmas Eve. Once aboard, you’ll be transported into the virtual launch bay using the HD VR headsets. From there on you’ll ride the magical sleigh across the globe and if you’re lucky it may even take you up into space!
During your intrepid journey you will experience an incredible range of motions. With two front fans and surround sound for a fully immersive 4D experience, the sleigh will tilt you forwards, backwards and side to side. The sleigh’s movements have been specially designed to mirror those of the full 360 degree experience, creating a truly festive and exhilarating adventure for everyone to enjoy.
Once DASH has had you test the sleigh, which will take you around 15 minutes, you will have time to meet and chat to Santa and if you have been good, you may even get a small gift. That has got to help you recover from the bumps!
Santa and his Magical Sleigh ride can be found in Santa’s Lodge, on level 3 of West Orchards shopping centre. Head up there to see the man himself as he welcomes you onboard his magical adventure.
Santa’s Magical Sleigh ride is on for a limited time only. Santa has an important job to do come Christmas Eve so he won’t be hanging around. So West Orchards shopping centre recommends you book in advance to avoid disappointment, it’s going to be a popular event.
You can join in this magical adventure for just £6 per person. The ride itself holds up to 8 people on each test flight. What’s more if you are a Go CV card holder you can get a 20% discount.
Advance booking only, so head to the West Orchards website and book early for your magical ride and visit to Santa.
