The statue was commissioned specifically to replace a previous Victorian fountain statue that had been damaged during the Coventry Blitz in 1940.
The sculptor, Sir William Reid Dick, was a prominent British sculptor who also created the Roosevelt Memorial in Grosvenor Square, London.
The base of the statue is inscribed with the name of Lady Godiva and her husband, Leofric, Earl of Mercia, who founded the original Coventry Priory.
A mechanical clock opposite the statue features a reenactment of the 'Peeping Tom' legend, which periodically reveals figures of Godiva and Tom throughout the day.
The statue is officially listed as a piece of public art that reflects the post-war regeneration of the city center.
The Lady Godiva statue is a bronze sculpture located in Broadgate, the historic heart of Coventry city center. Commissioned by the Coventry Corporation, it was sculpted by Sir William Reid Dick and unveiled in 1949. The statue commemorates the 11th-century noblewoman who, according to legend, rode naked through the streets of Coventry to protest against oppressive taxes. It stands as a prominent symbol of the city's civic pride and historical identity. The monument depicts Godiva mounted on a horse, characterized by the artist's focus on her dignified posture and flowing drapery. It is situated within a pedestrianized public square that has been part of Coventry's redevelopment since the mid-20th century. The surrounding Broadgate area remains a central hub for public gatherings and civic events. The statue is positioned near the original site of the city's medieval market.
From the steps of the Broadgate Clock to capture the statue with the modern city square architecture in the background.
Visit the Broadgate square during the hour to catch the mechanical clock animation featuring Lady Godiva and Peeping Tom.
Combine this visit with a short walk to the ruins of St Michael's Cathedral nearby.
Check local event listings as Broadgate often hosts regional festivals and markets that can obstruct clear viewing of the statue.
Do not mistake this for the Godiva statue fountain in the city’s older archives; ensure you are looking for the bronze equestrian sculpture in the modern public square.
