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.

There is not a shortage of living accommodation in Coventry. We recommend that before you enter the UK you seek to secure private rented accommodation in Coventry. This is offered by student landlords or letting agents and includes: student houses, student flats/apartments, bed-sits and larger housing schemes.

We can help you!

The following descriptions may help you decide the right choice for you.

Studio Apartment /Bed Sit
You will have your own private living space in one room; this doubles up as a bedroom and main living area. Apartments will be furnished with at least a bed and wardrobe. You will have an en-suite bathroom and kitchenette containing basic kitchen appliances. You will need to provide your own bed linen, cutlery and crockery. Laundry facilities will be available. Utility bills are not included in the cost of rent.

Living on your own is a more expensive option and prices usually start from around £370 per month.

Room in a Shared House
Room in a privately owned house shared with other students. You will have your own bedroom; the kitchen and bathroom will be shared. Your bedroom will be furnished with a bed, desk and wardrobe and your kitchen will be equipped with a cooker/fridge freezer, washing machine. You will need to provide your own bed linen, cutlery and crockery. Utility bills are not usually included in the rent.

Prices will vary from £65-£80 depending on room size and quality.

Private Student Halls
Fully fitted study bedroom with central heating in a flat of up to 6 students. Internet access is often available at an extra charge. Utility bills are included in the rent. You will need to provide your own bed linen, cutlery and crockery. Halls are selfcatered and you will share a kitchen and bathroom with up to 6 students. Prices vary from £60-£105 per week and demand is usually high. Reservations should be made early to ensure availability.

The Tourist Information Office can also give you a list of hotels and guesthouses for a short-term stay. Also, look at library notice boards for advertisements for rooms to let and in local newspapers.

Accommodation Agents in Coventry

       
                    
Alternative agents    

http://www.unite-students.com/student-accommodation-coventry
http://www.studyinn.co.uk/
http://www.libertyliving.co.uk/
http://www.unac.co.uk/
http://www.accommodationforstudents.com/Coventry.asp
http://www.homesforstudents.co.uk/student_accommodation_coventry.aspx
http://www.accommodationforstudents.com/default.asp

We have prepared an overview of the typical costs student will encounter in pdf format. To download more information about living costs in Coventry - please click here .