The Ideal City Escape: Hotel Indigo Coventry

If you’re anything like me, you love a weekend escape that feels special – something that breaks the routine, feels a little indulgent, but doesn’t involve half a day of travel or wrestling with luggage on a long-ass train. And that’s exactly what a trip to Hotel Indigo, Coventry offers. Even better? The experience actually starts the moment you hop on an Avanti West Coast train out of London – direct!

The direct journey from Euston to Coventry is just over an hour, and I genuinely can’t overstate how easy it is. With big comfy seats, actual decent Wi-Fi and a great little selection of snacks and drinks (yes, they serve wine – no judgement if it’s before 12pm), it’s the kind of journey that lets you switch off, breathe, and settle into that time away mindset. Tickets are also very reasonably priced.

A Boutique Stay with a Difference

Stepping off the train, you don’t even have to glance at Google Maps. The hotel is literally right in front of the station. Within five minutes of arriving, I was checking in – no fuss, no faff.

Hotel Indigo Coventry only opened its doors in January 2024, but it already feels like it’s been part of the city for years – in the best way. It’s a beautiful new-build, but designed with loads of character. The interiors take inspiration from Coventry’s history – from textiles and motorcars to the city’s post-war regeneration – and it all ties together with the brand’s signature boutique style. Every Hotel Indigo is unique, and this one really leans into its setting. The smell is quite amazing too.

The location couldn’t be more convenient either. You’re just a short stroll from Coventry’s historic centre, which means amazing food spots, cultural attractions, and the stunning cathedral are all right on your doorstep.

The Rooms

Our room was perfect and just what we needed – modern but cosy, stylish without trying too hard. The hotel has over 100 rooms, each one themed around different elements of Coventry’s identity.

The bed was a Hypnos, covered in crisp Egyptian cotton (exactly the kind of bed that makes you want to sleep in till noon), and the bathroom was spa-style, with a powerful rainfall shower that washed away the city dust in seconds. There’s also high-speed Wi-Fi, a Nespresso machine (in the premium and suite rooms), and a flat screen TV, but honestly, we didn’t even use it – too busy soaking up the rest of the city – and were quite exhausted from the steps of the day.

Cogs Restaurant & Bar

Let’s talk food – because we were really blown away by the quality of the food here. Cogs, is one of those places that takes local sourcing seriously but doesn’t make a fuss about it. The menu celebrates growers and producers from Warwickshire and across the British Isles, and you can taste the quality in every bite.

We treated ourselves to a steak dinner, paired with a bottle of red and a couple of cocktails to finish. The steak was cooked exactly how we asked – juicy, flavourful, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. The bar is just as impressive – it’s big (seats around 100), sleek and has that perfect mix of buzz and laid-back charm. Whether you’re there for pre-dinner drinks or one last nightcap, it hits the mark.

Plus, the open kitchen design is a great touch – there’s something really engaging about being able to see the chefs at work, and it gives the space a great energy. The breakfast was equally as good and diverse, with some of the best coffee I think I’ve had in England.

Things to do and see

Once you’ve eaten your fill and slept like a baby, there’s loads to explore nearby. Coventry city centre is less than a ten-minute walk away and well worth wandering through.

There’s a growing food scene, especially if you love Asian cuisine – we spotted everything from Korean BBQ to Japanese izakayas and noodle bars. And of course, you can’t visit without seeing Coventry Cathedral. It’s genuinely moving – both the ruins of the old cathedral and the modern one standing next to it. Even if you’re not usually into history or architecture, it’s pretty powerful having been destroyed in the war.

Extras at the Hotel

Even though we were there for leisure, the hotel is well set up for business travellers too. There’s a fitness suite, which we used in the morning and has brand new equipment, a meeting room for up to 12 people, and a Wine Wall for those who know their Syrah from their Shiraz (or just enjoy a good glass). It’s these small details – the kind that make your stay feel thoughtful – that really elevate the experience.

Heading Home

When it was time to head home, we packed slowly, dragging out every last moment. The bonus? You don’t have to build in loads of extra time to catch the train – it’s right next door. We were back on the Avanti West Coast service to London within minutes.

The return journey was just as relaxed – smooth, fast, and stress-free. We sipped coffee, caught up on messages, and stared out the window as the countryside rolled past. An hour later, we were back in London – but still riding that wave of city break serenity.

Our Trip Summary

We were really impressed with Coventry. Perhaps not a first on everyone’s list, we were genuinely blown away by the quaint beauty of this old world city. Likewise, Hotel Indigo Coventry is the kind of place that makes a quick getaway feel like a real event. From the boutique design and thoughtful service, to the excellent food and unbeatable location, it gets so much right. And when you pair that with the ease and comfort of travelling direct with Avanti West Coast, it’s a no-brainer for your next weekend escape.

Whether you’re looking to explore somewhere new, reconnect with Coventry’s history, or just treat yourself to a bit of luxury without the faff, this is your sign to book it.

Find out more > www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/gb/en/coventry

Book your travel > www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk