Christ the King Catholic Church, Coventry

The modern Catholic cathedral that rose from Coventry's post-war rubble tells a story most visitors don't expect. Christ the King was completed in 1962, built alongside the medieval ruins of the old cathedral that the Luftwaffe destroyed in 1940. Walking inside, you're confronted by soaring brutalist architecture - all concrete and clean lines - that somehow manages to feel reverent rather than cold.

The interior is genuinely striking. Light floods through the massive stained-glass window behind the altar, and the space has an almost austere beauty. It's not a church for everyone - if you're after Victorian Gothic or elaborate decoration, you'll be disappointed. But if you appreciate post-war design and the sheer audacity of rebuilding something sacred from rubble, it's worth an hour of your time.

Historically-minded visitors will get the most from it, particularly if you pair it with the neighbouring medieval cathedral remains. Families with younger kids might find it bit sparse for holding attention, though the scale of the space impresses most people. It's free to enter, and you can usually walk around during daylight hours - though it's worth checking ahead as services will occasionally limit access.

Coventry itself is well-positioned for a caravan holiday, with parks like Hollyfast just over two miles away. The city's city centre reconstruction is interesting in its own right, and the cathedral visit fits neatly into a broader morning exploring the town.