Despite the devastation it suffered from German bombs and city planners, Coventry still boasts a fascinating history dating back centuries. The city has played a major part in the economic and cultural life of the country: it was a major centre of bicycle manufacture before becoming the home of many of the country’s main car makers; it is home to one of the world’s best-loved cathedrals and its beautiful Guildhall; it changed the modern world with Europe’s first pedestrian precinct; and has the country’s first post-war theatre. Local author David McGrory takes the reader on a fascinating A–Z tour of the city’s history, exploring its nooks and crannies, and telling stories of the buildings, places and residents along the way. Fully illustrated with photographs from the past and present, A–Z of Coventrywill appeal to residents and visitors alike.

David McGrory is a local historian based in Coventry. He has written a number of local history books for Amberley and other publishers. David also wrote a popular column for Coventry Evening Telegraph for five years.