Coventry Cathedral

The bombed ruins of the medieval cathedral stand next to Basil Spence's striking 1960s replacement, creating England's most powerful architectural statement about war and peace. The new cathedral houses the world's largest tapestry by Graham Sutherland and the famous Reconciliation sculpture. It sits in Coventry's Cathedral Quarter, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Coventry's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost £5 adult, children free and 1-2 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 1-2 hours Best for: one of england's most moving architectural Skip if: You're uninterested in religious architecture or modern design Cost: £5 adult, children free

Walk through the sandstone ruins where you can still see medieval pillars and arches. Enter the modern cathedral through the glass screen wall to see soaring concrete columns and the massive tapestry covering the entire east wall.

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance via the south door, lift available to upper levels

One of England's most moving architectural experiences telling Coventry's wartime story. That puts it near the top of any Coventry visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Herbert Art Gallery & Museum and Coventry Transport Museum - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Coventry. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.

Skip if: You're uninterested in religious architecture or modern design

• Start with the ruins before entering the new cathedral.
• Look for the words 'Father Forgive' carved in the altar wall.
• The visitor centre explains the bombing story clearly.

Insider tip: The chapel of Unity underneath was Britain's first ecumenical chapel when built in 1962

The contrast between ruins and new building creates powerful compositions, photography allowed inside