Coventry Tours

15/06/2024

TRIAL OF MARY ANN HIGGINS

On 22 March 1831 William Higgins died an agonising death at his house on Spon Street. He was a relatively wealthy man, and acted as sole guardian to his niece, nineteen year old Mary Ann.

On the day of William’s death Mary Ann purchased arsenic from a chemist, supposedly to eliminate rats. Surgeons later discovered arsenic in William’s stomach, and even in his pea soup.

Mary Ann eventually confessed to the poisoning but claimed that Edward Clarke, a watchmaking apprentice who had been courting her, had coerced her into taking her uncle’s life.

Organised by local social historians Adam Wood and Jo Phillips, this recreation of the trial uses a transcript of the 1831 proceedings. Hear the evidence word for word and decide for yourself – was Mary Ann Higgins guilty of murder?

Open for bookings now - the perfect Halloween event!

Jury tickets:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-trial-of-mary-ann-higgins-jury-tickets-tickets-915427396987?aff=oddtdtcreator

General admission tickets linked below 👇

Join us for this unique opportunity as a member of the jury. Only 12 places available.

08/06/2024

Who owns Coventry Tours. Check out our website coventrytours.com

04/06/2024

New walking tour from Adam!

COVENTRY 1920 WALKING TOUR

In 1920 historian H.C. Wilkins updated his book 'Walks Thro' Coventry' to take account of the consecration two years earlier of St Michael's parish church to become Coventry Cathedral.

Wilkins described the streets and sites of the city in great detail, painting a picture of the Coventry of a century ago.

Join local historian Adam Wood as we follow in the footsteps of H.C. Wilkins, hearing his descriptions of long-vanished streets and buildings, to discover a vibrant city still bearing the signs of its medieval past - before the bombs and developers left their mark.

First dates:
Saturdays 1.30-3.00pm,
29 June, 13 July, 27 July.

Join historian Adam Wood for a walking tour of the Coventry of a century ago, with streets and sites as described in a guidebook from 1920.

03/06/2024

Being on the jury for Mary Ann Higgins' live trial means:

1. Front Row Seats: You get to sit in the best seats, right at the front.

2. Join the Deliberation: You will talk with other jurors about the case and help decide what the verdict should be.

3. Exclusive Opportunity: There are only 7 spots left, so it’s a rare chance to participate.

4. Act Now: Book your seat soon before they’re all gone.

It’s a special experience where you get to be part of the action and help decide the outcome of the trial.

Book now https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-trial-of-mary-ann-higgins-jury-tickets-tickets-915427396987?aff=oddtdtcreator

30/05/2024

New event announcement! To take place at The Albany Theatre, Coventry on 31 October 2024:

TRIAL OF MARY ANN HIGGINS

On 22 March 1831 William Higgins died an agonising death at his house on Spon Street. He was a relatively wealthy man, and acted as sole guardian to his niece, nineteen year old Mary Ann.

On the day of William’s death Mary Ann purchased arsenic from a chemist, supposedly to eliminate rats. Surgeons later discovered arsenic in William’s stomach, and even in his pea soup.

Mary Ann eventually confessed to the poisoning but claimed that Edward Clarke, a watchmaking apprentice who had been courting her, had coerced her into taking her uncle’s life.

Organised by local social historians Adam Wood and Jo Phillips, this recreation of the trial uses a transcript of the 1831 proceedings. Hear the evidence word for word and decide for yourself – was Mary Ann Higgins guilty of murder?

Open for bookings now - the perfect Halloween event!

General audience tickets:
https://www.albanytheatre.co.uk/shows/trial-of-mary-ann-higgins/

Be one of the twelve jury members:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-trial-of-mary-ann-higgins-jury-tickets-tickets-915427396987

27/04/2024

Please note: there are no walks today. Have a fabulous weekend.

26/04/2024

What a fabulous day for a walk today! Thank you to those who walked with me.

20/04/2024

We had a fantastic afternoon in Broadgate joining in the St George’s Day celebrations, with two damsels in distress being carried away by fierce-looking dragons. Thankfully St George himself was on hand to rescue them (and us!)

If you saw us out and about and had your photo taken with us, we’d love to see them!

CoventryTours.com

20/04/2024

Adam and I will be out and about in the city in costume between 12 and 2. If you see us give us a wave!

17/04/2024

A headline like this will definitely grab your attention.

Seven Women, a Broom, and a Man: A Turbulent Encounter.

At the Coventry court on a Monday in 1906, William Arnold, residing at 29c Gosford Street, faced a peculiar assault charge. Annie Balmer, a neighbour, originally accused him of verbal and physical assault.

Arnold recounted a bizarre incident involving seven women from the neighbourhood overpowering him in the yard and vigorously beating him with a broom. While his tale raised eyebrows, his disrespectful demeanor and language towards the Magistrates only added to the skepticism regarding his version of events.

Annie Balmer testified that Arnold had insulted her and struck her face. She admitted to throwing a broom at him in retaliation, though she claimed it missed. Despite Arnold’s earlier apology, and her subsequent reluctance to press charges, the court was not swayed.

Arnold defended himself by claiming he was the victim of an unprovoked attack by the seven women and defiantly stated, "I did nothing, and I am not going to pay. I have no money, and you can do what you like with me."

This statement led the Magistrates' Clerk to accuse him of gross contempt of court and insolence. The Bench decided to fine Arnold five shillings plus costs. When Arnold refused to pay and remained insolent, the Chairman warned him of a possible fourteen-day jail term for contempt of court. Ultimately, Arnold was taken into custody.

What a bad day for William Arnold.

16/04/2024

Yesterday, Jo led her walking tour titled "April 1941 Forgotten Air Raid" for 25 members of the U3A in Coventry. Jo had previously given them the same talk, but this time they wanted to walk.

Did you know that back in 1937, Coventry launched an appeal for air raid protection, seeking 4,000 volunteers?

In the coming weeks, they aimed to recruit between 3,000 and 4,000 citizens to join the city's air raid precaution efforts.

Both Jo and Adam are available for talks, and a 1940 and 1941 walking tour email [email protected]

15/04/2024

In addition to Adam's walking tours, he is giving a talk at Coventry's Albany Theatre on 26 May about some of the city's most terrible crimes of the Victorian era.

The sales report this morning says there are just 20 tickets left! If you'd like to go along and see Coventry in a whole new light - albeit a murky one - best to book now!

Join crime historian Adam Wood to hear true tales from Coventry’s dark past, such as the man kept chained in filthy conditions in one of the city's best loved pubs, the conspiracy to murder the workhouse doctor by two of the inmates, the man who took revenge on his wife's refusal to return to the ...

15/04/2024

Adam has scheduled a number of dates for his Coventry walking tours taking place in April and May - these can be found on his Eventbrite page:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/adam-wood-28088282217

15/04/2024

Today Spooky Jo has a private walk at 11 am and then a public Haunted Coventry Ghost Walk at 1.30 pm.

If you see me, give me a wave 👋

08/04/2024

Today marks the 83rd anniversary of the Forgotten Air Raids in Coventry, which commenced on Good Friday, April 8th, 1941, which spanned over two consecutive nights otherwise known as the Holy Week Raids.

On the 8th April, 230 German bombers attacked our city dropping 315 tons of high explosive and 25,000 incendiaries, and then again through the night of the 10th April, 1941, the German Luftwaffe unleashed a relentless assault on Coventry.

Our city endured a harrowing bombardment that forever changed its landscape and history.

Loss of life 568
Injured 860

Tonight, we remember them all.

06/04/2024

Join Us Today at 2 PM for a Royal Windy Walk!

Embark on a journey fit for royalty as we explore the hidden gems of Coventry's medieval architecture and discover the secrets behind its windy doors. Don't let the Queen walk alone – join us today at 2 PM for an unforgettable one hour adventure through the heart of the city.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, this royal stroll will take us through the winding streets and hidden alleyways of Coventry, where history comes to life around every corner. Along the way, we'll marvel at the breathtaking beauty of medieval architecture and uncover the fascinating secrets that lie beneath the surface.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply looking for a unique way to spend your afternoon, this windy walk promises to captivate and inspire. Join us as we step back in time and immerse ourselves in the rich heritage of Coventry's past.

Don't miss out on this royal opportunity – lace up your walking shoes and meet us at the Coventry Cross statue, today at 2 PM.

Let's explore together and discover the magic of Coventry's windy doors!

Pay on arrival or book now.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting medieval history of Coventry! Join our unique 1-hour walking tour.

05/04/2024

Bloody graffiti artists!

But where am I? 🤔

04/04/2024

Adam has two walking tours today!

First up is the Coventry Blitz at 10.30am:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-coventry-blitz-walking-tour-tickets-859330218817?aff=erelexpmlt

And at 7.00pm is Coventry’s Second Victorian Murder Mile:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/coventrys-second-victorian-murder-mile-walking-tour-tickets-865591817427?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Book in advance, or pay on arrival!

Another walk through the streets of Coventry's Victorian era with local crime historian Adam Wood, featuring a range of dark deeds.

03/04/2024

Today, at 10.30am - the Coventry Blitz walking tour with Adam.

Find out about the man chased down an alleyway by a river of boiling butter, and the truth about the shelter under Owen Owen…

Book in advance at the link below, or pay on arrival:

A walking tour describing the Coventry Blitz of 14 November 1940, when over eleven continuous hours German bombers decimated the city.

02/04/2024

10 am this morning

Step back in time to 1849, a year of gripping tales and harrowing events. Female hangings are on the rise, and Coventry is no exception. Join me on a journey to Cuckoo Lane, where over 20,000 people gathered to witness the public hanging of Mary Ball, the last woman to face such a fate in Coventry.

🕰️ Delve into the true, sad, and chilling tale of Mary Ball, a story that will grip your heart and soul. Her narrative is one of crime, punishment, trials, and the unforgiving grasp of the death penalty.

🎭 Prepare to be captivated by this retelling, as it unfolds with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This isn't your average Crime & Punishment story—it's a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered.

🤫 But wait, there's more! Brace yourself for a twist that's kept secret from the usual history sources. It's a revelation that will leave you reeling and eager for more.

Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to uncover the untold story of Mary Ball. Join me as we journey through history together, shedding light on a dark chapter of Coventry's past. Book your spot now and let's explore Mary's tale together! 📜✨

10 am this morning

Step back in time to 1849, a year of gripping tales and harrowing events. Female hangings are on the rise, and Coventry is no exception. Join me on a journey to Cuckoo Lane, where over 20,000 people gathered to witness the public hanging of Mary Ball, the last woman to face such a fate in Coventry.

🕰️ Delve into the true, sad, and chilling tale of Mary Ball, a story that will grip your heart and soul. Her narrative is one of crime, punishment, trials, and the unforgiving grasp of the death penalty.

🎭 Prepare to be captivated by this retelling, as it unfolds with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This isn't your average Crime & Punishment story—it's a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered.

🤫 But wait, there's more! Brace yourself for a twist that's kept secret from the usual history sources. It's a revelation that will leave you reeling and eager for more.

Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to uncover the untold story of Mary Ball. Join me as we journey through history together, shedding light on a dark chapter of Coventry's past. Book your spot now and let's explore Mary's tale together! 📜✨

Step back in time to 1849, a year of gripping tales and harrowing events. Female hangings are on the rise, and Coventry is no exception.

01/04/2024

Earlier today I (Adam) received an email from the Albany Theatre with the latest ticket sales for my talk at the end of May.

I’m absolutely amazed that of the 100 tickets available, 70 have already been sold - two months before the event!

If you’re local, and thinking of going but yet to book your ticket, I can only suggest you do so sooner rather than later…

Join crime historian Adam Wood to hear true tales from Coventry’s dark past, such as the man kept chained in filthy conditions in one of the city's best loved pubs, the conspiracy to murder the workhouse doctor by two of the inmates, the man who took revenge on his wife's refusal to return to the ...

01/04/2024

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEK!

We have a busy schedule coming up, with the following walking tours running from tomorrow:

TUESDAY
10.00 Mary Ball’s Awful Ex*****on

WEDNESDAY
10.30 Coventry Blitz walking tour

THURSDAY
10.30 Coventry Blitz walking tour
19.00 Coventry’s Second Victorian Murder Mile

FRIDAY
14.00 Medieval Coventry
16.00 Medieval Coventry
19.30 Haunted Coventry Ghost Walk

SATURDAY
14.00 Medieval Coventry
16.00 Medieval Coventry

SUNDAY
10.30 Coventry Blitz walking tour

Details and booking links for all these tours can be found at

Independent historians Jo Phillips and Adam Wood have come together to showcase the diverse and rich history of Coventry, collaborating to offer events that cater to different interests, providing historical insights, cultural deep-dives, speaking events and spooky ghost tours. We offer walking tour...

30/03/2024

We’ve had a great day, with Adam’s Coventry Blitz tour this morning leading the guests right into the Blitz Museum in the Cathedral ruins, and then both Jo and Adam walking around town in our medieval outfits posing for dozens of photographs and giving out cards. We hope to see you all on a tour soon!

In the meantime, if you asked for a photograph with us today, we’d love to see them!

Here were are finishing with a well-earned refreshment in the Golden Cross. Cheers!

30/03/2024

Hello everyone! Where are our lovely lady and the King? If you spot us, give us a big cheer!

30/03/2024

Today 2pm and 4 pm

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting medieval history of Coventry! Join our unique 1-hour walking tour.

29/03/2024

We’ve got a new website, making it easier to find our tours and events.

We’ll be adding a What’s On page, which will show you at a glance what’s scheduled in the weeks ahead.

Please add it to your favourites!

Independent historians Jo Phillips and Adam Wood have come together to showcase the diverse and rich history of Coventry, collaborating to offer events that cater to different interests, providing historical insights, cultural deep-dives, speaking events and spooky ghost tours. We offer walking tour...

28/03/2024

Yesterday's where am I was...you can learn all about this on Jo's Ex*****on and Hangings Tour.

28/03/2024

This morning 10 am 🕰️ Step into the past and embark on a captivating journey through Coventry Medieval Spon Street and its surroundings. 🏰

Join us as we unravel the rich tapestry of history, delving into the lives of the residents who once called this ancient street home. From the bustling merchants to the humble craftsmen, discover the stories of ordinary people living extraordinary lives amidst the harsh realities of medieval existence.

🔍 Explore the secrets hidden within the walls of the historic buildings that line Spon Street. Learn about their varied uses throughout the centuries and ponder the ethical dilemmas of their past deeds.

💡 Gain insight into the daily struggles and triumphs of Coventry's medieval inhabitants. From the joys of community celebrations to the tragedies of untimely deaths, every corner holds a tale waiting to be told.

🏰 Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Coventry's past, where right and wrong blur in the passage of time. Challenge your perceptions and expand your understanding as we navigate through the complexities of medieval life.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A GHOST WALK.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience history come to life. Book your journey through Coventry Medieval Spon Street today and unlock the secrets of a bygone era! 🗝️🏰

Step into the past and embark on a captivating journey through Coventry Medieval Spon Street and its surroundings.