In Coventry

Coventry is a city and metropolitan borough, in the West Midlands region of England. With a population of 305,000 (2005 estimate) Coventry is the eighth largest city in England and the eleventh largest in the UK.

Coventry is famous for its involvement in the British motor industry, its Cathedral and the legendary exploits of Lady Godiva. Over the years Coventry has developed an international reputation as Europe's major city of peace and reconciliation and holds an annual Peace Month.

The City of Coventry is now better than ever and boasts popular high street shops, boutiques, bars, clubs and restaurants. It has a vibrant live music scene that can be found in many of the city bars on any night of the week.

Shopping

Coventry Retail Market – Coventry's newly refurbished circular market is a must for all that enjoy the atmosphere, value and service of a busy market. Lower and Upper Coventry Precincts – the pioneering post-war precincts of the City-centre offer pedestrianised shopping in pleasant tree-shaded areas, with a variety of fast-food outlets, café, wine bars and modern pubs.

Other places to shop include the Cathedral Lanes Shopping Centre, Central Six Retail Park, Old Spon Street and West Orchards Shopping Centre.

Eating Out

There are many different places to eat out in Coventry with many new eateries popping up all over the city. Depending on your taste and budget, average prices for a meal range from £6-£15.

Most pubs and bars also serve food and offer special lunchtime deals. For a full listing of restaurants and how to find them you could visit a directory website such as www.yell.co.uk and type in your search.

Pubs and Bars

You will find discounted student nights available every night of the week in the City-centre. Whether it’s a quiet evening you’re after or something more lively there are lots of student friendly bars including FiftyFour, The Phoenix, The Varsity, The Oak and Browns.

Nightclubs

There is a large student population in Coventry and much of the nightlife in the city focused around students.  Whatever your musical taste there something for everyone in Coventry. There are a number of nightclubs playing music from dance, hip-hop, R&B, rock, indie to 70’s disco. Nightclubs such as Liv 54, the Colloseum, Lava and Ignite offer student nights every week. Keep a look out for flyers with details of the different nights on offer!

Entertainment

There is always something happening in Coventry with many historical and cultural events throughout the year.

There is also large entertainment and leisure complex called the Sky Dome which houses an Odeon cinema, ice rink, three night-clubs and several bars. There is also the Belgrade Theatre nearby which shows a number of performances throughout the year. On the northern edge of the City you will find the Ricoh Arena with 32,000 seats that hosts concerts, events and is also the new home of Coventry City Football Club.

If you enjoy sports and keeping fit Coventry Sports trust offer discounted student membership. With and Oympic size pool and great sports and gym facilities this is the perfect way to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

As a student of RDI you will have associate membership of the local university’s student union, this will give you the opportunity to join one of their many sports clubs and societies.

Libraries

As a student of RDI you will gain associate membership to the local university library as well as Coventry’s public libraries. Here you will be able to borrow a number of books for a short period of time.

RDI also have a resource centre with a large number of reference books including all core texts and recommended reading.
 
Transport

The best way to get around Coventry is by bus. West Midlands travel operates a very good bus service to all areas of Coventry. You can purchase a day saver ticket for unlimited bus travel in one day for £2.50 or alternatively you can purchase a bus pass and make extra savings.

Coming soon.... Life in London