Home / Loved by Families
"The Herbert has in recent years undergone drastic redevelopment which has greatly enhanced it's standing in both the local community and the artistic community in general. It has tried hard to reach out and engage more with the local population in general and has succeeded in making the establishment a far more vibrant and colourful place to visit through a variety of exciting exhibitions that appeal to adults and some imaginative programmes aimed at promoting the Herbert to a younger audience."
Simon Hopkins, Coventry
"The Herbert has been an important part of Coventry for 50 years. As a child I remember the permanent exhibitions of cars (now moved to Coventry Transport Museum) and the giant loom; now that the museum has been rebuilt, with the history centre on site, it’s twice as wonderful! There has been a tradition of excellent events for children and adults, and I never feel awkward just popping in on my own to have a quiet moment. The staff teams are friendly and a trip to the superb café really rounds off a visit."
April Chaplin, Coventry
Jack Shuttleworth, Community Exhibitions and Events Officer shares the work of staff throughout the gallery and why he love's working at the Herbert
"The Museum has some of the best facilities I've seen recently in any museums, including toilets and baby changing space. There is a great choice of wholesome, nutrious food and an excellent venue for music (for a small audience number). The museum holds a good selection of entertainment schemes that attracts the community at large but also, I think, to include minority members in the community so that they include a good cross section young, old, from different races and somehow manages to make us all feel part of the city."
Elizabeth Connolly
"The refurbishment and extension is stunning to look at and has created more exhibition space which is being made full use of. The variety of exhibitions is wonderful, with something for everyone, and the provision for families of all ages is fantastic! My family love the craft opportunities provided and the children's summer interactive exhibitions. And, all this is currently free of charge! An amazing resource for the people of Coventry."
Jo Mclean, Coventry
"The Herbert is a fantastic newly refurbished museum with easy access to family friendly exhibits which are constantly changing. With plenty of activities to keep the children of all ages occupied."
Mrs. J. Arnold, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum appeals to all ages. The interactive displays entertain the children. During the school holidays you can always rely on something good being on for the children to keep them entertained. I particularly like the library where old documents relating to Coventry can be seen. I work for a solicitor and we have donated old deeds to them."
Uditt Rakhit, Coventry
"Family-friendly creative exhibitions– bringing history and art to life very friendly staff great facilities."
Raj
"The gallery has educational, fun and beautiful exhibitions and is very child friendly, running activities for kids during the school holidays. It's so important to interest our children in art and culture, and the Herbert has inspired mine."
Lucy Inman, Coventry
"The Herbert is a fantastic family friendly gallery that shares the inspiring story of an overcoming city. It gives everyone a sense of inspiration to pursue peace and reconciliation."
R. Neely, Coventry
"The Herbert Art gallery has something for everyone from keeping young children entertained and introducing them to Art, to keeping mums and Dads engaged. There is even something for the older population. It is just a fantastic day out for the whole family and FREE which is amazing."
Heather Randle, Coventry
"A great museum – family friendly, lovely café and good facilities – we love it. Especially craft events for kids – the dressing up and the touch and feel bits. Spacious for kids to run around in. A thumbs-up from my two year old!"
Helenplatts, Balsall Heath
"The Herbert Art Gallery did very big progress just during one year. It is extended, more interesting and everybody can find there something for himself. Children love the old fashioned dresses and spaces where they can touch the things, e.g. shells, stones and so on. Older people can know something more about II War World."
Mariola Studenna, Coventry
"I take my granddaughter every school holiday. There is always a different exhibition to inspire children of all ages; by going to the Herbert Gallery I am sure she will have a life-long love of museums."
Pat Morris, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery provides the people of Coventry and the surrounding area with a unique insight into the history of the area as well as the world. It provides very varied exhibitions and includes the whole family with proactive exhibitions as well as static. It gives local people the opportunity to exhibit and also widens the knowledge of the young people in the area as well as us oldies."
Pauline Marr, Coventry
"It is bright and welcoming; it endeavours to embrace our multi cultural city and reach out to all age groups. There is always something of interest to be found there. In short it's a great place and deserving of our support."
Gail Gamble, Coventry
"The new rebuild makes the building a joy to look at and to visit. Whenever I go there seems to be a special event for children (I am 64) who are all having fun and learning about our city's history. The history centre is also very user-friendly."
Lyn Durward, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is a wonderful place to take children of all ages (adults included). The wealth of artefacts and knowledge within its walls are immense. Whether you were born in Coventry or not you can spend many an hour researching its varied history."
Patricia Taylor, Coventry
"Excellent exhibitions for children."
Kathy Simpson
"The Herbert has a great mix of historical items, art and information, coupled with numerous interactive things there are to do around the museum, which makes it a great place for children and adults to go to. It's a great learning environment for all and they've made going to museums fun."
Janice Kellam, Coventry
"A brilliant redevelopment, with something for all the family."
Peter Bennet
"I was very impressed with the Wallace and Gromit Exhibition. It was lovely to be able to bring VERY young children to an event suitable for their Young age. It was enjoyable and informative and they learned a lot. I also use the History resources as I study Family History. The Gallery has always been innovative and has done its utmost to keep improving."
F. McManus, Coventry
"The Herbert is a fantastic resource for parents like me. It is one of the few places we can go which is set up to entertain me and my daughter equally. She loves the building itself, the interactive stuff and events, and for me it's a relaxing, inspiring and educational. I don't know where else we would go on rainy days to be frank with you."
Andrea Mbarushimana, Coventry
"The Herbert is the most family-friendly place one can visit, My 6 year old granddaughter and I spent a whole day there last week. As we came home she asked "can we go again tomorrow?". From the new entrance facing the cathedral, into the light and airy atrium. A child pressing the button before a loom to start the film of how it works. Remembering paintings to answer questions, do a simple jigsaw of each. The Elements section where adults learn and children have fun. This and much more, together with a good café, and the most sensible cloakroom layout one can imagine."
Maureen Liggins, Coventry
"This museum has always been brilliant, its choice in the exhibitions never fail, local history especially, and never forgetting activities for children of all ages."
John Skipper, Coventry
"The refurbishment and extension of the museum has been a great success. The Herbert provides a welcoming atmosphere for ALL the family, as well as for the serious art loving adult. A true gem."
Victor Zammit, Kenilworth
"My kids love the place! It's a lot more welcoming than the Ashmolean."
Dan Fedorowicz, Breedon On The Hill
"It brings learning about history and art together in an enjoyable way and is accessible for all to enjoy."
Crystal Hornsey, Coventry
"Very good for bringing the family to (they welcome children). I also like the way they fuse new media with older and more classical styles; you don't see much of this but they've gone out of their way to do this at the Herbert."
Matt Osbond, Leamington Spa
"My family and my children have enjoyed the art gallery and the museum for over 30 years, with complex and creative exhibitions, family events and friendly staff. Something for the whole family to enjoy all year round."
Mrs. Clare Holt, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery situated perfectly in the city centre, its holiday activities for children are superb. I have attended the gallery a few times (schools trips) and also with my children during holidays; the sheer range of exhibits hold the interest of us all (including my autistic son). Every room has something different, from classical pieces, modern/contemporary, and sensory, giving you a true insight into days gone by. Brilliant!!!!!!!"
Nicola Horne
"This museum is fun and informative on all levels. I have viewed the displays with my mother and enjoyed lots of free family fun with my children. It is a great place to visit on a rainy day and with changing exhibitions and events there is always plenty to keep us entertained and eager to return."
Claire Butterworth Stanley, Coventry
"I took my children to the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum recently because of a special exhibition that we wanted to see. As we were there we walked around the rest of the museum and had a lovely time. We really enjoyed the interactive displays and the variety of the different exhibitions. It is a great museum and shows what can be done despite not having access to the most famous of art works in this world."
Katrine Wallis
"It is somewhere you can go and have quite time to look around at all the wonderful pieces of work. Or go with a group and have discussions and get to hear what other people views are. It is a lovely location and near by for the buses. My children and grandchildren love to go. My youngest son has joined in all sorts of different events and learnt such a lot. We have always found the staff so very nice and helpful. It has such a lot to offer with a very inviting feel about the place."
Clare Briggs, Coventry
"Fantastic museum and gallery housed in a stunning building. Welcoming, accessible and family friendly with great range of thought provoking exhibitions and exciting events."
Jo Forrest, Birmingham
"It is a fantastic space for families; it is light and airy inside, plenty of places to sit and reflect, the coffee shop is lovely, the reception and shop area is inviting and friendly, and the things they put on for free for the kids’ school hols are just brilliant; we go there a lot and I always recommend it to friends. The exhibitions are always diverse and thought-provoking, and I enjoy the ones that are relevant to the area."
Bonnie Guilfoyle, Coventry
"The Herbert Gallery is very good as I belong to a small group of mums that are trying to get activities for the children in our area which is quite a depressed area and they are willing to come to use and give small group activities as tasters and this has encouraged some of the local parents to take their children to the gallery themselves."
C. Pritchard, Coventry
"Excellent focus in Coventry, delivers a wide range of artistic and interactive events. Draws people of all ages to engage and think about a wide range of art and society. Hosted a number of events which otherwise wouldn't have been possible, and also sponsors struggling film makers in the region. Something very rare outside London. People are incredible friendly and helpful, would support them all the way!"
Duncan Woodhouse
"Because it's a great place to go and take the kids for a fun-filled day. It has great exhibitions and events and the staff are always friendly and helpful… plus it has a great café!"
Andrea Daly
"The Herbert Art Gallery is absolutely wonderful for adults and children. The food in the restaurant is superb. Considering it is free entrance to the museum and there are a variety of 'on-hands' exhibitions it is a Must for everyone. We would take our visiting friends there without hesitation."
Ron and Lesley Browne
"The Herbert Gallery should win because it is an excellent venue to take the children to in the holidays; it's free and they never tire of it – it's also in a good location beside the cathedral, what more could you ask for?"
Claire Bird, Coventry
"The Herbert works at the heart of a major UK city to share cultures, welcome families and offer fun, learning and participation. It's a welcoming place and well deserves recognition on the long list."
David Bancroft
"As a little kid I always would call into the Herbert on my way home from school and then as an adult I did the same on way from work. Then my kids and now my grandkids do the same; the Herbert has always been there in my life and deserves all the prizes it can get."
Terry Daly, Coventry
"The Herbert is amazing. The new building is stunning – but the contents are superb. I have small children who are enthused and excited when I mention a trip to the gallery – they positively pop! The art classes are staffed by well trained, imaginative and wonderful people. The children's exhibitions are amazing. My sister – who lives in posh Essex is so envious of our super art gallery; she travels all the way up here to take her children. We have spent hours and hours in the exhibits and then had to drag the children away kicking and screaming because they want more. Inspiring? Motivating? Oh yes – I think the Herbert is has it all. Fabulous."
Rachel Adshead, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery brings back memories of visits to it with my Dad to look at old Coventry and taking my children there from toddlers to date to look and play with the interactive equipment. Love the café too."
Debby Lapworth, Coventry
"Range and quality of exhibitions and the child friendly nature of the gallery workshops etc."
Alfre Bogyor
"We have always had a warm welcome when bringing children to the gallery. It is bright, modern and offers some exciting activities to all ages."
Mrs. Tracy Horton, Coventry
"Local facility which brings history and the arts to life for Coventry and its visitors and will inspire learning and enjoyment amongst the children from local schools and the wider community. Family friendly and lots of exhibitions."
E. Haycox
"This art gallery and museum is great. We often travel over to Coventry on the train to visit. The changing exhibitions are always good and the other rooms are full of things to see and do, my children have their favorite bits that they look forward to visiting. Lots of hands on stuff and their holiday activities are very good. Excellent place and all free!"
Helen Lifford, Rugby
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum has always been one of the most interesting places to visit in Coventry. The modernization and extensive building work, now completed, has brought it into the 21st century. It is a fabulous building in a central position. One of the top venues to visit with an exciting eclectic variety of exhibitions to enjoy. There are always workshops and projects going on and lots of hands on experiences for children to explore. The healthy eating cafe is bright and welcoming and the shop is full of unusual, interesting gifts. It is such a vibrant place with so much going on and so much to see and do. One visit is never enough. Three cheers for the Herbert."
Val Hunt, Coventry
"The Herbert is a great place for the old and young alike and has been a favourite of mine since childhood – and now for my children. Not only does it hold great exhibitions of art and collections but holds activities for children to learn through creativity. It really does give back to the community it serves."
Caroline Button, Coventry
"It is a fantastic local resource. I have enjoyed it as a rainbow leader, working with looked-after-Children and with my own children. It has many different parts and the activities put on in holidays are wonderful and often stretch the children’s imagination. I enjoy going for a quiet moment of time out and have enjoyed poetry readings and special events along with it being a fabulous lunch venue."
Julie Faulkner, Coventry
"The Herbert has been an important part of Coventry for 50 years. Over the years it has adapted to the needs and styles of a changing city and community but remains a place in the heart of many people from Coventry and the surrounding area. There has been a tradition of excellent events for children and adults. I visited many times as a child and have enjoyed taking my own children there on both school trips and personal visits. I hope one day to be able to take my grandchildren. The staff are friendly and a trip to the superb café really rounds off a visit."
Andrea Blakeman, Coventry
"As a northerner who recently came to Coventry I took my children and parents on a visit to the museum. Now they visit every time they come to Coventry and think it’s wonderful."
John Carr, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery is a lovely gallery that is very popular with the people of Coventry. Quite often it is full of children who without the gallery would not go to a museum. The gallery offers many children's activities at the weekend."
Pam Ellis, Coventry
"I remember visiting the Herbert as a child and being enthralled by the variety of displays. Some 35 years later I still visit with my own children and still learn something new on every visit. The staff are welcoming, enthusiastic and helpful. Both child and adult events are varied and excellent; the café is always a refreshing end to my visits. On those odd occasions when the shopping is just too much I can often be heard to say "just popping in the Herbert to see what’s new". It’s a true community art gallery and museum."
Stuart Gibbins, Nuneaton
"The Herbert provides a wonderful programme of educational courses for local children and is easily accessible for schools. Their staff are knowledgeable and approachable; they make the world of learning accessible to children. It is also a superb facility for adults both in terms of the exhibitions on offer, the shop window for local arts and crafts and the relaxing ambiance of the café."
Anne-Marie McFeely, Coventry
"The Gallery has been a central feature in the heart of the City Centre for many years offering an educational artistic retreat from the general mayhem of City life. The children's activities during the holidays are creative, informative and great fun. The staff are friendly and welcoming."
Julie Needham, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum always has something interesting, fun and educational on show for all the family."
Melanie Lloyd
"I first went to the Herbert Art Gallery when I was a (science) student in Coventry in the '80s and have fond memories of wandering around it. I now have the pleasure of taking my 13 year old daughter there with her friends and have been impressed by the diverse range of activities it has to offer (including an Asian dance class on one occasion!). It has made a great contribution to art in Coventry & Warwickshire and I am glad to see that it has continued to develop over the years. I think it's a local treasure!"
Deborah Blackburn
"As well as providing interesting exhibitions and a superb facility for children to learn about the history of Coventry, the Local Studies Section of the Herbert has a most comprehensive collection of family history records which has facilitated me in researching my family tree. The shop and café are also top notch!"
Olivia Susan Masters, Coventry
"Dear Judges – The Herbert is a fantastic facility. We think the new displays are exemplary. As a family we really like the fact that they have included elements for small children to enjoy such as interactives, low-level objects, smells and things to follow on the floor. As an adult I can appreciate the effort that has gone into the redisplay process and all the new material out on show including the new What's in Store section. The archives section in the History Centre is far more accessible than before. The redevelopment has turned it from a local museum to a centre of regional excellence. The WC facilities are fabulous. Above all the staff are very helpful and friendly and extremely knowledgeable."
Alex and Tamsyn Thompson
"I have loved the Herbert since being taken there as a child by my parents. Now I love nothing more than taking my four and seven year old girls where a few hours can pass by quickly as they eagerly explore the permanent installations (they love the interactive nature gallery and Coventry through the ages). In addition, there are always plenty of things to do during school holidays and at weekends. We recently attended an animation workshop organised by some local artists and community youth workers. The recent refurbishments have created an iconic building and a fantastic attraction for the city centre."
Jo Channer, Coventry
"The Herbert has improved drastically since I first came to Coventry when my children enjoyed looking at a few stuffed animals in glass boxes there. It is now a vibrant, interesting and attractive cultural facility in the heart of Coventry with an ever changing calendar of events which I am proud to visit with friends, family and visitors." Christine Baylis, Coventry
"I visited the museum recently with family and was very impressed with the new look. The museum was full of interesting items, but not too many that it became boring, and there were plenty of "hands-on" things for children to try. The photographic exhibition we saw was amazing, and well set out. The café was also very pleasant."
Gillian Dodds, Coventry
"It is a great local museum that reflects the history of the local area but also has really interesting and stimulating exhibitions as well. The nature photographs and the light installations have been some of my favourites. Really great for kids too!"
Gennie Holmes, Coventry
"It is family-friendly and really welcoming. It has a wide range of displays throughout the year – a great place to visit."
Debbie Warden
"Family-friendly, airy and light."
Linda Bigham
"It has undergone a fantastic transformation over the past couple of years and now delivers a fantastic free family outing experience."
Julie Venn-Morton
"Because not only is it educational; it’s also a fun day out for all of the family! Over the years my friends and I have visited the gallery many times and it never fails to impress me!!!!"
Claire Scates, Coventry
"What a wonderful museum, with a great array of exhibitions and activities for children. I often go there on my lunch breaks and take my five year son there regularly at the weekend and in the school holidays. A lovely family-friendly museum with lots to see and do."
Michelle Berry, Coventry
"We go many times a year with our two small children. As well as all the interesting exhibitions about the history of Coventry there are always fascinating temporary exhibitions covering a wide range of topics. My children love the arts and crafts sessions that are regularly run for free during the holidays and which are related to the exhibitions in the museum. This has introduced them to the museum in a fun and lively way which I think is great."
Isobel Powell, Coventry
"Good family orientated venue."
Cheryl Sweeney
"The Gallery has a wide range of learning activities available for children and families and collections for the public. I have enjoyed every visit made to this gallery and recommend it to others."
Hardip Thandi
"The Herbert is a modern designed building with interactive displays which my children love playing with. It gives a detailed and interesting insight into the history of Coventry and the various industries. Great place to visit."
Richard Adams
"It's the most family friendly-museum I have ever had the privilege to visit and our grandchildren from 4-15 all loved the experience they're not geeky kids either… brilliant day."
Lin Race
"It’s not the biggest museum, it’s not the oldest museum, but it’s friendly, it’s interesting, has a wide variety of exhibitions and activities, to both view and to take part in. It’s family-friendly and has something for every one; a great day out."
Julie Paterson
"I love going to the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum. My grandchildren love going there. I was very proud to show them the bus my father used to drive. A very informative and well laid out building."
Pauline Day
"It is a great place to visit. The exhibits are very much locally based, telling the story of Coventry, or informing the visitor and resident alike about the local region. The staff are helpful and friendly. It is very child-friendly as well, a popular place to spend some time during the holidays."
Robert Jarvis, Coventry
"A family-friendly atmosphere. Always something of interest to see for all ages."
Elaine White, Coventry
"Great family-friendly museum."
Anton Debiage, Birmingham
"Because it has a wide variety of interests and is very centrally situated and serves really good food. It is also child-friendly."
Joan Hewitt, Coventry
"As a visitor recently to the Herbert Art Gallery I was so pleasantly surprised at the wealth of knowledge my children gained whilst with me. We have been to many of these larger exhibits where they have a great time but do not take in the history. For such a 'smaller' venue than its competitors it has so much more to offer."
Julie Kubiak
"I have been visiting the museum since I was a child and I have found that it is a very family-orientated place which consists of activities that people of all ages can be involved in which makes learning a lot easier. It is full of fascinating pieces and history. It almost tells the story of why Coventry is so special. I am 25 years old and I enjoy visiting museums; the people are friendly and helpful and I will definitely bring my family along every so often for any shows or even just for the café. Thank you."
Nita Bagga, Coventry
"It’s a place where you can take the whole family to visit and it’s free, which means if you are on a low income you can still have a fun day out with your children which is also very educational. The staff are helpful and there is always something new to learn about; some of the exhibits are very hands-on which children love and it also explains the history of this wonderful historic city."
Joanne Maher, Coventry
"A local place of interest for the whole family to visit which is not dependent on the weather."
Karen Squires, Nuneaton
"Lovely place; it has lots of interesting exhibits and events, really good venue. Seems to be family-friendly too."
Christine Dhammi, Coventry
"My children really enjoyed the Easter activites. They have even made scrap-books at home. I would like to thank you for the diverse and imaginative art experiences you provided. This has enriched my children’s skills, imagination, knowledge and innovation (as well as mine.) Both of my children follwed a different creative journey. My 9 year old learnt art techniques and about the artists who used these or were part of that particular movement. My 6 year old gained the confidence to have a go at different techniques and explored the use of different mediums. All the staff were so helpful and encouraging, we were made so welcome, that my children visited every session. They thoroughly enjoyed it. Also my children explored the rest of the museum on different visits and fount the historical and cultural arts exciting and intriguing. Thank you."
Yvonne Boyle, Coventry
"It's the place where adults and children alike can have a wonderful learning experience that leaves them wanting to return for more!"
G. Bains, Coventry
"It's a stunning family-friendly museum and art gallery with both static and changing exhibitions, friendly staff and a fab café!"
Nicki Bradley, Coventry
"It has an excellent appeal combining old with new. We hired their undercover area for our community presentations and the blend of formal and informal made the whole event relaxing yet magical for those families taking part. I like the space. Plenty of room for young and old to enjoy the museum and all it has to show."
Carol Speed, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery shows very varied pieces of art from those that reflect the history of Coventry to the modern times. It is relevant for young and old alike. My six year old visited in the summer and there were activities for him to do which increased his interest in artistic things and my teenage daughter also was fascinated by the paintings [she too is an artist]. I too enjoyed the visit and was pleased to see the variety of paintings to view."
Jean Wright, Coventry
"It’s fantastic and family-friendly."
Jit Thakor
"It's a great place to visit at the heart of historic Coventry, giving local residents and visitors to the city a fantastic opportunity to view art for free in a welcoming environment; not only does it have it own collections it also hosts world famous exhibitions. It's a great day out for all the family."
Natalie Bazeley
"Ever since I was a little girl, no more than 4 or 5, I was fascinated by the museum, the exhibits, the works of art, that wonderful smell that is totally intoxicating... it used to thrill me. When I attended university close by, I used to go over to the museum to relax, to wander around and to lose and immerse myself in something other than my studies. The Herbert is also close to our historical old and new cathedrals and this adds to the adventure. There have been many exciting exhibitions particularly war related, which is great for the young to relate to. They also have a lovely café now... I can have my latte and then wander around... oh the joys!"
Pat Ashby, Coventry
"Since The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum re-opened in October 2008 it has put a lot of effort into getting exciting exhibitions there and also showing the local history of Coventry. The Herbert is a very vibrant place, offering many free events to bring local people including people from BME communities into the museum and giving them the chance to experience some thing different. The Herbert is also doing a lot especially for families and young people to get them involved in the arts. The Herbert is a very welcoming place and open to everyone which brings people together and I would say really deserves the prize."
Marjata Doell, Coventry
"It's bright, and accessible to all. Has paintings next to children’s hands-on exhibits, encouraging people to look at areas they wouldn't normally."
Joelle Moore
"They always have interesting displays and events for all the families. The building is really funky, and most importantly, it's free!"
Zoe Hodge, Bedworth
"This gallery is so under rated and I think having seen quite a few galleries and museums that it is one of the best in the country; it is a small unassuming gallery that tries to encourage people of all ages to think about the past, present and future and I take great joy in taking my grandchildren there for a day out. Long may it reign in Coventry!"
Pauline Ainsbury, Bedworth
"I took my Daughter recently who is 8 years of age. This is a fantastic place to view many works of art, will go back in the near future."
Barbara Robinson, near Coventry
"I think the art gallery and museum is s fabulous place to take my grandchildren for the day; they always enjoy it."
Sue Donnelly, Coventry
"Herbert Art Gallery is encouraging young and old to be innovative and think about Art outside the box and be creative. It has kept the history alive near the Cathedral and about the Second World War bombing in Coventry. It has also given information about Coventry as car industry and ethnic mix. I always took my children for activities during holidays and otherwise to Herbert Art Gallery. It has made myself, my children and communities think about different issues and contributed to raising awareness about cultures, history, art, music, and drama. It encourages new talent and showcases old talent. Coventry would be boring without Herbert Art Gallery. I love visiting the Herbert Art Gallery and the atmosphere is inspiring and thought provoking."
Mrs. Jaspreet Singh, Coventry
"The Herbert is a truly wonderful, family-friendly, inspirational art gallery and museum. I have seen it evolve like a phoenix from the ashes over the last few years, and its transformation has been amazing! The Herbert serves a city that has been through very hard times, but like the gallery, the city is going through a renaissance. The Herbert is a jewel in the crown, a hidden treasure that the rest of the country (and beyond) should know about!"
Lynn Kingston, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
"Lots of local history, exciting displays and a great day out with the children."
Jane Willey, Warwick
"For the past 14 years I have been visiting the Herbert with my family; it has always been a most welcoming place where you can feel relaxed visiting with your children. The staff are lovely, always warm, welcoming and very helpful. Since the renovations it is now an even better place to visit, and thankfully it hasn't lost its friendly welcoming charm; it has just become bigger and better."
Sarah Cowley-Catchpole
"I have been visiting the Herbert Art Gallery since I was a child and it had always been a great source of entertainment and Art education. It is one of the main attractions of Coventry and I have many fond memories there. It has always been free to enter and is a valuable asset to the city."
Karen Whitmore, Coventry
"I hadn't visited the Herbert for many years until recently when I took my 6 year old and his friend to the Wallace and Gromit Exhibition. I was extremely impressed with the organisation and friendliness I was presented with. The boys had a great time and asked to go back. There were activities for the children to get involved with and really opened their eyes to the fact that they can enjoy themselves in this environment. I have been keeping an eye other exhibitions and feel the diverse range they show pulls people in with many differing interests and to suit all age groups. The Herbert is a credit to our City."
Stephanie Pavey, Coventry
"Extremely family-friendly, with constant FREE activities for children of all ages, taking place practically all year round. The food in the canteen/restaurant is delicious, cheap and with lots of variety. It's located practically on the doorsteps of the ruins of the famous Coventry Cathedral, which is an added tourist bonus. The souvenir shop is small, interesting and very affordable, so kids can always pick something nice without breaking parents' purses. I love the Herbert because the toilets are very clean, with easy accessibility for kids and the elderly. It's also bang in the middle of the Coventry town centre, so parking and shopping is easy and stress-free."
Cambridge Onoh, Coventry
"The Herbert is at the heart of the local community in Coventry. Right in the city centre it is easy for everyone to get to and is free! They are always doing different free activities for the children which are creative and fun. The exhibitions are always changing I often pop in whilst shopping to see what is going on. The staffs are friendly and informative and the food is good too!"
Shereen Lee, Coventry
"Accessible to all and not fusty and off putting to those who do not usually go to museums; the child-friendly interactive historical and scientific rooms are a work of genius, and the art is displayed in light, airy comfortable rooms and they serve a cracking cup of tea too!"
Dawn Whiting, Coventry
"The Herbert has lovely galleries on the Lady Godiva, some old masters, history (local especially). The reasons we go are that it is kid-friendly, FREE, and the exhibits change from time to time. There is always something new to look at, so we go regularly. The kids say that their favorite exhibit is the one that is specifically for kids and changes regularly."
Rebecca Cole, Great Dalby
"It's a warm, friendly museum with activities and exhibitions for all ages. The programming brings new experiences to people and stimulates discussion and ideas. The building's great and helps bring that area of the City to life and it works well with the Cathedral across the square. My family and I like the Herbert because it's about the future whilst still respecting the past."
Sangeeta Redgrave, Coventry
"This is an excellent, excellent resource in Coventry. It is totally accessible to people of all ages, from my four-year-old son to my 75-year-old dad. It makes youngsters passionate about art from a very early age with its very accessible activities aimed at very young artists. Additionally families are made to feel very welcome - my son loves looking around the installations and the Old Masters section and we're never made to feel uncomfortable about being noisy! All in all it allows people access art in a very friendly way."
Annette Kinsella
"We had a fantastic afternoon at the Herbert in the holidays. The displays are so clear and concise and my boys loved the hands on experiences such as dialling on an old fashioned phone and the piece work. It works so well because they focus on just a few important moments in the city's history and do it well. I was able to look around at my leisure whilst my children amused themselves. We ran out of time at the end of the day having expected to only spend an hour or so there. The large main gallery is really light and airy."
Bridget Escott
"It is a pleasant space where the permanent and temporary exhibitions are laid out well. I have 10, 7 and 2 year old children and they enjoy visiting the gallery finding the exhibits interesting and with plenty of opportunity for interaction. We visited the Wallace and Gromit exhibition with a range of people from 2 to 79 and they all enjoyed it. The art and craft activities for children are well organised, accessible and something they look forward to. It really helps in school holidays."
Christine Bell, Leamington Spa
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum provides an interesting and innovative way of reaching out to audiences who might not otherwise visit art galleries or museums, by providing lots of hands-on activities. The collections are of great interest to people of all ages – I have visited regularly as a child and have been amazed by its recent transformation. It is an exceptional experience and ensures visitors know the history of Coventry."
Katie Simmonds
"Light, airy and welcoming. Exhibits arranged superbly with easily readable (without my reading specs) comments. Something to interest all ages. Particularly liked the 'dressing up' area for young children – they were having a whale of a time! Enjoyed the sit down and snack in the café at the end of our visit. Will return as did not have time to see all on offer."
A. Booker
"Since my grandson was a baby we have visited the Herbert Gallery and Café fortnightly. He is now four years old and it is on his list of favourite places to visit. As soon as he was able he was welcome to join in the art activities for children. He has enjoyed the specific exhibitions for children but also the ongoing and changing exhibitions. He enjoyed the Wallace and Gromit exhibits but was also able to access aspects of the exhibition on slavery. He insisted on taking his other grandmother to see a particular picture showing a woman with aids visiting a hospital. It was his introduction to the arts and also continues to stimulate and interest him. Of course we also enjoy the exhibitions or we wouldn't have been so keen to take him on a regular basis!"
Bobbie Kelly, Coventry
"This museum has been my favourite for over forty years! Where else as a child could I gaze in wonder at paintings of Lady Godiva, famous sculptures and a variety of fascinating objects? Now, I visit regularly to enjoy the wide variety of free exhibitions which "The Herbert" offers in a contemporary setting. Light, airy spaces enhance the work by a range of artists. The interactive History Gallery is a valuable educational resource, complemented by the multi-sensory Elements Gallery. The gallery also supports local artists with its exciting Open Exhibition. The museum offers many art and craft activities which my family has enjoyed on a regular basis. We enjoy visiting the interesting gift shop, and café which offers tasty home-cooked food. "The Herbert" is an old friend, part of our city, and full of surprises – a wonderful attraction."
Lesley Higgerson, Coventry
"The Herbert has a fantastic range of exhibits for all ages, the special events for children are amazing and the staff teams are so friendly and helpful. We love it!!!"
Paula Artz, Rugeley
"A bright cheerful approachable museum. Lots of child friendly exhibits. Knowledgeable staff. My family loves visiting."
Sharon Mills, Coventry
"I regularly take my two granddaughters to The Herbert as there are always very stimulating exhibitions, many designed with children in mind. They also encourage the Arts in the City. The café is lovely, the staff are very helpful and it's always a pleasure to visit."
Ann-Kristine Westwood, Nuneaton
"It's a beautifully designed building with great exhibits for adults and children to enjoy together. I especially love the puppets in the Lady Godiva exhibition!"
Alison Hook
"Beautiful buildings and surroundings, great exhibits, family friendly – celebrates Coventry and its great history and there aren't a lot of places that do that!"
Charlotte
"There is so much going on there and always something different and very hands-on for children. My six year old grandson loves going."
Virginia Rigby, Coventry
"My family does not live in Coventry but about 5 miles away. Most school holidays I visit the gallery and museum as there is always something on for the children and the majority of the time the activities are free. It is a lovely space for my daughter to explore. We have visited many times and will do so for many years to come!"
Mrs. S.J. Newell, Bulkington
"A stylish and accessible gallery and museum with a wide variety of exhibitions and activities for all ages and tastes. I've visited with my young family to see Wallace & Gromit animation exhibition which was very popular, as well as personally for general interest, use of their café and media workshops. A great creative space – I'm glad it's there. If they were awarded the prize I'm certain that they would spend it both wisely and innovatively."
Joanne O'Driscoll, Coventry
"Fabulous exhibitions – we had a lovely time with the kids at the recent Wallace and Gromit exhibition."
Gill Dolphin
"A very family friendly place to visit with helpful staff and lots of interesting exhibits. An excellent restaurant as well."
Liz Knight, Coventry
"It's a fantastic community facility. Lots of interesting exhibitions and really good stuff for kids in the local history area."
Phil Jones, Coventry
"Because it is an excellent child-friendly museum that encourages the children to engage with different aspects of art either through the exhibits or workshops. You can spend half an hour or an entire day there. It is an excellent facility to have on your doorstep."
Kristi McKeegan, Coventry
"Innovative design and layout suitable for all ages and interests combining learning with play, and bringing Social History to life. This is an important space for the young community."
Tim Hyde
"Very family friendly and it has a very light and airy feeling to the building. Lots of different exhibits that change regularly and a very friendly cafe area."
Angie Beaumont
"Recently I have become very interested in Coventry's history and 'The Herbert' is a very good place to start learning about one's heritage. It has some wonderful, informative exhibits and, of course, some very interesting temporary/visiting exhibitions. It is child-friendly and puts on things for families, such as 'A Night at the Museum'. I hope it wins the prize."
Elaine Lenton, Coventry
"A fabulous facility – very accessible at all levels for all ages."
Elizabeth Paolone, Kenilworth
"The gallery has been an important place in Coventry for 50 years. I remember visiting it as a child and I now take my children. They have many attractions on throughout the school holidays and the staff are always keen to help. The café is excellent too."
Mrs. Mary-Anne Taylor
"Varied displays, helpful staff, interesting exhibitions for all ages, good activities for children to take part in."
Angela Dean, Coventry
"The Herbert is a fantastic place to visit. My children often visit when we are in town. It’s welcoming, exciting, interesting and very educational. The staff are very helpful and friendly. It deserves to win."
Nikki Gormley, Coventry
"A great place to spend time with the kids, very interesting and enlightening and plays a very important part in the city."
Mrs. Bhamra, Coventry
"We as a family can go to the museum and I know that my little boy will have lots of fun and my husband will be in my element. Lots of nice things to look at."
Jane Burton, Coventry
"It was my only local museum as I grew up. As a child going there I couldn't believe it was free and full of such wonderful exhibits. It was my first experience of museums and one that meant I remained a "museum fan" for the rest of my life. Thank you the Herbert!"
George Davidson, Hemingford Abbots
"Because it encourages and inspires children and adults of all ages and cultures."
Doreen Gardner, Coventry
"It’s a fun place to go for all the family and it tells us about our City and it’s free."
Ayshia Maher, Coventry
"It was always amazing fun as a child and now that I am older I take my niece and she loves it too!! There is such a variety of things to look at and do!!"
Lyndsey, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery has been an important source of education for the community. It fostered my daughter's love of theatre and drama through a group based there (the Little Herberts), and my daughter has now gotten onto a drama course at college, which would not have happened without the Herbert Art Gallery."
Mark Kelly
"Fun place to visit with family."
Sue Rushton, Coventry
"The dressing up section is truly amazing!"
Frankie
"A great well-planned and well-managed gallery for all the family. From young children right up to the elderly grandparents."
Elfring
"It is the perfect place to take the children, with lots of hands-on activities and exhibitions; it is the way all museums and galleries should be. It’s local and we love it!"
Lucia Walters, Leamington Spa
"I started visiting The Herbert as a child and still enjoy frequent visits now that I have my own family. The exhibitions not only educate but encourage imagination and everyone enjoys being able to "touch". We always find something new out with each visit. If we have visitors then The Herbert is on the list of "where to visit" as all ages enjoy their visit."
Louise Cramp
"It is an interesting museum with great potential – all the visits there are fun-filled and interesting, and the variety of exhibitions it astounding for a local museum: there are many genres for all ages."
Joe
"It's a great place for families."
Fiona Keston
"Since the gallery has been revamped the gallery has been extremely family-friendly with wonderful exhibits and events. The gallery also does a wonderful job supporting local artists and groups. The food in the café isn't bad either." Victoria Redgrave
"It's a fabulous city museum that's gone the extra mile to be accessible and relevant to its local population. Families and kids love it."
Sarah Gee, Birmingham
"Suitable for all ages. I am a pensioner and spend some time there sketching the butterflies and birds that are exhibited and also spend time going round all the various rooms with my two young grandchildren. The oldest is five years and the younger is two over the last couple of years has they have spent happy times at the children’s art and crafts sessions with many friends."
Valerie Cahill, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum has something for everyone. I take my six year old granddaughter and she thoroughly enjoys herself; this is what education should be like, learning while enjoying yourself. I personally use the history centre which furthers my research into family history. But whether I visit alone, with other adults or my granddaughter it is a place of fascination, interest and can I say of a museum, delight."
Chris Hewitt, Coventry
"My children are in love with the Herbert. It's free, it's inside and we spend many happy hours there in school holidays and on weekends – what more could a parent of a 2 and a 5 year old want? The exhibitions are amazing and we are all educated as we spend time there. A busy parent’s dream."
Lisa, Coventry
"Family-orientated, excellent history gallery."
J. Jones
"Great variety of events throughout the year for adults and children."
Danny, Coventry
"It is the only place that provides exhibitions dedicated to local history that is enjoyable for all the family."
Claire Pavlou, Coventry
"I recently took my granddaughter and we spent three hours at the Herbert Art Gallery! There was lots of hands-on things she could do and painting to become involved with; the time just flew by and she really enjoyed herself."
Shirley Miller
"My son really loved how interactive all of the displays and exhibitions were."
P. Jordan
"This is the most exciting new museum in the region by a long way. The offer for families is excellent; it has a fabulous café, and great spaces for new arts such as animation and film making."
Alice Davey
"The Herbert is such a good place to be. It's close to other interesting places like the old and new cathedrals and St Mary's Hall and the doom painting in Holy Trinity but adds a different dimension. Some museums are only really good if you have children with you but this one works equally well without. The renewed building is a great setting for the wonderful mix of exhibits. It has something for everyone."
Helen Simmonds, Coventry
"Stones have lights in!"
Rowan Fisher
"A great museum recently revamped – good for family and children and also walking routes for buggies and great art pieces."
Chris P, Coventry
"It is an amazing place with loads to see and very friendly staff!"
Karmi Bains, Sutton Coldfield
"A family-friendly museum with lots to do and see for the whole family. An excellent day out."
Audrey Taylor, Marston Green
"Great hands-on educational fun for my grandchildren."
Diana Bellamy
"Provides a cultural centre within the centre of Coventry, a place that could do with as many of those as it can get."
Mark Neighbour
"Impressive architecture, relevant local and national interest exhibitions, well presented visually appealing galleries, excellent website, free family art activities, child-appropriate exhibitions."
Catherine Lovett, Coventry
"Excellent."
Ann and Andrew Clark
"The design of the building is wonderful with interesting and imaginative displays and exhibitions. Children are welcome. The museum staff have recently given support to the Coventry Historic Environment Project volunteers and put some of the pottery finds on display. We are so lucky to have such a museum and art gallery in Coventry."
Joy Shakespeare, Coventry
"My son works here and the place is amazing. He is so passionate about his work – he talks about nothing else!"
Jenny
"Great place for the family, our 14 month old baby adores the gallery and there is always something new to see. The Herbert café is a great place to relax."
E. Woodward, Coventry
"It's brilliant, really interactive and my daughter who is 5 has been going there since she was born. We love the drop-in activities for families in the school holidays where she loves making things. The installations are great fun and it's a lovely day out there."
Adele McDowell
"It’s a fantastic museum that I have taken my son to many times; we always enjoy our visits. The staff are always friendly and the exhibits always first class."
Craig Fish
"Family-friendly, excellent local history study centre, brilliantly extended, well presented exhibitions and touring exhibits, informal, with good café. Makes an architectural contribution to the city and the Cathedral square."
Nigel Clews, Coventry
"Excellent, interactive, child-friendly museum. Easy to access."
Yvonne Downey, Coventry
"Excellent facility to entertain all the family. Most helpful staff."
Liz Knight, Coventry
"The recent refurbishment, combined with the excellent exhibits, make it a fantastic place to visit for the whole family."
Kieron Hayes, Coventry
"The Herbert is a great museum – really family-friendly, good permanent exhibitions and always interesting temporary exhibitions. The building itself is very welcoming and we always enjoy every visit."
Marie Darwen, Leamington Spa
"It holds the most variety of art, artefacts and facilities that would suit a wide range of visitors. I could take my seven year old child and my 63 year old mother and in one way or another they would BOTH be most interested and WOWed by the excellent exhibition of interesting items. Our City would be a gloomier place without it! WE LOVE THE HERBERT ART GALLERY! :)"
Jo Alcock, Coventry
"The Elements Gallery is a fantastic interactive space for people of all ages and abilities!"
Laura Hilton
"The museum has things of interest for the whole family."
Roz, Coventry
"It's a great place for people of all ages to visit. We often pop into the museum during a shopping trip and there is always a pleasant buzz around the place. My son loves visiting and he loves participating into the special activity sessions. The Wallace and Gromit exhibition was excellent."
Miranda Cawley, Coventry
"Great for children, Free to get in. Absolutely fantastic exhibitions."
Sean McNulty, Coventry
"I visit The Herbert regularly with my children. They absolutely love the hands-on displays, as well as the activities organized by the museum. We often end up staying much longer than planned! It is really family-friendly, and brings history to life for children."
Juliet English, Coventry
"It has a wide range of displays and activities for all age ranges. It is excellent for all young people during school holidays with its extra activities. My grandson who is aged 6 really enjoyed the bee activities and all the art workshops."
S. Price
"It's one of our favourite places to go during the school holidays. The children's activities are great, the spaces have a wonderful feel, the café provides lots of healthy choices with a friendly service, the shop has a range of items which reflect current themes (including smaller items for children's pocket money) and the exhibitions are interactive and fun for all. At a time when we're all feeling the effects of the recession – it's a place you can go to forget your worries, but not have to spend a fortune."
Joscelyne Bigham, Coventry
"Because there is always something to see and it's free. My daughter was inspired to do a textile project after one exhibition we saw, and I was very moved to see the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition pictures recently. The food you can buy there warrants a visit by itself, even if you then didn't have access to the exhibitions. And you can even buy original pieces in the shop. I have a fantastic fish with a winch in the middle of it hanging in my kitchen!! Best of all, the museum is in the middle of town. So you can pop in and spend a small amount of time there, or plan and take a longer time to wander about."
Viv Emery, Coventry
"A great family day out. On our last day out as a family, it entertained us all on a cold and wet winter's day. Some of the exhibits were great for our pre-schooler and young toddler. We could see ourselves going back time and again to use it as a fun way for them to learn about our city and local culture. Winning this competition would help the gallery to keep facilitating this important role it plays in helping all generations to learn about the history of our city and culture and how decision making in society impacts upon us all."
Jo Currington, Rugby
"It’s a great place to spark interest in people of all ages. My four year old loves it, especially the "smelly vision" in the Coventry gallery. My 9 year old enjoys the gallery which allows interactivity to discover about Godiva and my 11 year old has found the peace and reconciliation gallery very informative and it has supported his school studies. As a family we visited the Wallace and Gromit exhibition and the children loved the models. They were inspired to make models at home in modelling clay. The Gallery inspires everyone of all ages."
V. Powell, Warwick
"It's a great day out. I often take my four year old son there at weekends. He loves it. There is always something on that attracts his attention and he's learning about his heritage as well. The staff teams are very welcoming and knowledgeable. It's a pleasure to spend a couple of hours there."
Karen Keirstrider, Coventry
"There is so much going on there and always something different and very hands-on for children. My six year old grandson loves going."
Virginia Rigby, Coventry
"My family does not live in Coventry but about 5 miles away. Most school holidays I visit the gallery and museum as there is always something on for the children and the majority of the time the activities are free. It is a lovely space for my daughter to explore. We have visited many times and will do so for many years to come"
Mrs. S.J. Newell, Bulkington
"A stylish and accessible gallery and museum with a wide variety of exhibitions and activities for all ages and tastes. I've visited with my young family to see Wallace & Gromit animation exhibition which was very popular, as well as personally for general interest, use of their café and media workshops. A great creative space – I'm glad it's there. If they were awarded the prize I'm certain that they would spend it both wisely and innovatively."
Joanne O'Driscoll, Coventry
"Family friendly and always something new to discover every time we visit."
Ben Goodwin, Birmingham
"My kids drag me in every time they are in town, as there's always something for them to do."
Andrew Reece, Coventry
"Friendly and enjoyable atmosphere with plenty of activities for all ages. Great family History centre with facilities to have a great day out not just for local people but for tourists too…"
Lolita Hinds
"It’s a great renewed space which is very accessible. It contains varied and very lively exhibitions which are often relevant but also enlightening to a wide range of audiences. It does not have a stuffy feel to it."
Richard, Coventry
"It's just great – loved the poignant exhibition of ceramic shoes as part of the Holocaust exhibitions..."
Elaine Tierney
"The Herbert should win this prize as not only does it cater for the older generation but for young people as well. When I visit with my grandchildren they all enjoy the exhibits and the paintings… I also enjoy the heritage part of the museum, where you can trace your family history and see old maps of Coventry and the surrounding areas."
Angela Waters
"Really great atmosphere – family-friendly; small children are made to feel welcome. Lots on offer – my teenager and his friends spend a lot of time there as they feel welcome and are interested in the activities and exhibitions."
Kerri Harris, Coventry
"Interactive exhibits, able to take young children individually and in groups to experience the museum hands-on and visually constantly changing and renewing."
Zoe Mapp, Coventry
"It is a fine asset to the city of Coventry. After Hitler’s attempted destruction of Coventry, there is not much to look at in the way of historical buildings. However, the Museum and Art Gallery brings the history to life explaining Coventry's unique story. My young family and I find the visiting exhibitions extremely enjoyable. Especially the recent Aardman production Wallace & Gromit exhibition. It would be great to win on that basis and to acknowledge and reward our local gallery and museum."
Katie McIlvaney, Long Itchington
"It has something for everyone! My children enjoy going there."
Rebecca Vaughan
"It has a great open and friendly atmosphere and good facilities for families and children. The school holiday workshops are fab; the staff are friendly and the building and galleries are open, airy and fresh!"
Emma Carnall
"It has great displays that even my two year old can get involved with, and also creates an interest in local history. Plus, it has a great café and shop. The staff are friendly and helpful."
Bobbie Kaye
"Absolutely fantastic place to take children, always activities during school hols. which are free so everyone can access art!"
Sara McGreevy, Coventry
Paula Artz, Rugeley
"A bright cheerful approachable museum. Lots of child friendly exhibits. Knowledgeable staff. My family loves visiting."
Sharon Mills, Coventry
"I regularly take my two granddaughters to The Herbert as there are always very stimulating exhibitions, many designed with children in mind. They also encourage the Arts in the City. The café is lovely, the staff are very helpful and it's always a pleasure to visit."
Ann-Kristine Westwood, Nuneaton
"It's a beautifully designed building with great exhibits for adults and children to enjoy together. I especially love the puppets in the Lady Godiva exhibition!"
Alison Hook
"Beautiful buildings and surroundings, great exhibits, family friendly – celebrates Coventry and its great history and there aren't a lot of places that do that!"
Charlotte
"There is so much going on there and always something different and very hands-on for children. My six year old grandson loves going."
Virginia Rigby, Coventry
"My family does not live in Coventry but about 5 miles away. Most school holidays I visit the gallery and museum as there is always something on for the children and the majority of the time the activities are free. It is a lovely space for my daughter to explore. We have visited many times and will do so for many years to come!"
Mrs. S.J. Newell, Bulkington
"A stylish and accessible gallery and museum with a wide variety of exhibitions and activities for all ages and tastes. I've visited with my young family to see Wallace & Gromit animation exhibition which was very popular, as well as personally for general interest, use of their café and media workshops. A great creative space – I'm glad it's there. If they were awarded the prize I'm certain that they would spend it both wisely and innovatively."
Joanne O'Driscoll, Coventry
"Fabulous exhibitions – we had a lovely time with the kids at the recent Wallace and Gromit exhibition."
Gill Dolphin
"A very family friendly place to visit with helpful staff and lots of interesting exhibits. An excellent restaurant as well."
Liz Knight, Coventry
"It's a fantastic community facility. Lots of interesting exhibitions and really good stuff for kids in the local history area."
Phil Jones, Coventry
"Because it is an excellent child-friendly museum that encourages the children to engage with different aspects of art either through the exhibits or workshops. You can spend half an hour or an entire day there. It is an excellent facility to have on your doorstep."
Kristi McKeegan, Coventry
"Innovative design and layout suitable for all ages and interests combining learning with play, and bringing Social History to life. This is an important space for the young community."
Tim Hyde
"Very family friendly and it has a very light and airy feeling to the building. Lots of different exhibits that change regularly and a very friendly cafe area."
Angie Beaumont
"Recently I have become very interested in Coventry's history and 'The Herbert' is a very good place to start learning about one's heritage. It has some wonderful, informative exhibits and, of course, some very interesting temporary/visiting exhibitions. It is child-friendly and puts on things for families, such as 'A Night at the Museum'. I hope it wins the prize."
Elaine Lenton, Coventry
"A fabulous facility – very accessible at all levels for all ages."
Elizabeth Paolone, Kenilworth
"The gallery has been an important place in Coventry for 50 years. I remember visiting it as a child and I now take my children. They have many attractions on throughout the school holidays and the staff are always keen to help. The café is excellent too."
Mrs. Mary-Anne Taylor
"Varied displays, helpful staff, interesting exhibitions for all ages, good activities for children to take part in."
Angela Dean, Coventry
"The Herbert is a fantastic place to visit. My children often visit when we are in town. It’s welcoming, exciting, interesting and very educational. The staff are very helpful and friendly. It deserves to win."
Nikki Gormley, Coventry
"A great place to spend time with the kids, very interesting and enlightening and plays a very important part in the city."
Mrs. Bhamra, Coventry
"We as a family can go to the museum and I know that my little boy will have lots of fun and my husband will be in my element. Lots of nice things to look at."
Jane Burton, Coventry
"It was my only local museum as I grew up. As a child going there I couldn't believe it was free and full of such wonderful exhibits. It was my first experience of museums and one that meant I remained a "museum fan" for the rest of my life. Thank you the Herbert!"
George Davidson, Hemingford Abbots
"Because it encourages and inspires children and adults of all ages and cultures."
Doreen Gardner, Coventry
"It’s a fun place to go for all the family and it tells us about our City and it’s free."
Ayshia Maher, Coventry
"It was always amazing fun as a child and now that I am older I take my niece and she loves it too!! There is such a variety of things to look at and do!!"
Lyndsey, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery has been an important source of education for the community. It fostered my daughter's love of theatre and drama through a group based there (the Little Herberts), and my daughter has now gotten onto a drama course at college, which would not have happened without the Herbert Art Gallery."
Mark Kelly
"Fun place to visit with family."
Sue Rushton, Coventry
"The dressing up section is truly amazing!"
Frankie
"A great well-planned and well-managed gallery for all the family. From young children right up to the elderly grandparents."
Elfring
"It is the perfect place to take the children, with lots of hands-on activities and exhibitions; it is the way all museums and galleries should be. It’s local and we love it!"
Lucia Walters, Leamington Spa
"I started visiting The Herbert as a child and still enjoy frequent visits now that I have my own family. The exhibitions not only educate but encourage imagination and everyone enjoys being able to "touch". We always find something new out with each visit. If we have visitors then The Herbert is on the list of "where to visit" as all ages enjoy their visit."
Louise Cramp
"It is an interesting museum with great potential – all the visits there are fun-filled and interesting, and the variety of exhibitions it astounding for a local museum: there are many genres for all ages."
Joe
"It's a great place for families."
Fiona Keston
"Since the gallery has been revamped the gallery has been extremely family-friendly with wonderful exhibits and events. The gallery also does a wonderful job supporting local artists and groups. The food in the café isn't bad either." Victoria Redgrave
"It's a fabulous city museum that's gone the extra mile to be accessible and relevant to its local population. Families and kids love it."
Sarah Gee, Birmingham
"Suitable for all ages. I am a pensioner and spend some time there sketching the butterflies and birds that are exhibited and also spend time going round all the various rooms with my two young grandchildren. The oldest is five years and the younger is two over the last couple of years has they have spent happy times at the children’s art and crafts sessions with many friends."
Valerie Cahill, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum has something for everyone. I take my six year old granddaughter and she thoroughly enjoys herself; this is what education should be like, learning while enjoying yourself. I personally use the history centre which furthers my research into family history. But whether I visit alone, with other adults or my granddaughter it is a place of fascination, interest and can I say of a museum, delight."
Chris Hewitt, Coventry
"My children are in love with the Herbert. It's free, it's inside and we spend many happy hours there in school holidays and on weekends – what more could a parent of a 2 and a 5 year old want? The exhibitions are amazing and we are all educated as we spend time there. A busy parent’s dream."
Lisa, Coventry
"Family-orientated, excellent history gallery."
J. Jones
"Great variety of events throughout the year for adults and children."
Danny, Coventry
"It is the only place that provides exhibitions dedicated to local history that is enjoyable for all the family."
Claire Pavlou, Coventry
"I recently took my granddaughter and we spent three hours at the Herbert Art Gallery! There was lots of hands-on things she could do and painting to become involved with; the time just flew by and she really enjoyed herself."
Shirley Miller
"My son really loved how interactive all of the displays and exhibitions were."
P. Jordan
"This is the most exciting new museum in the region by a long way. The offer for families is excellent; it has a fabulous café, and great spaces for new arts such as animation and film making."
Alice Davey
"The Herbert is such a good place to be. It's close to other interesting places like the old and new cathedrals and St Mary's Hall and the doom painting in Holy Trinity but adds a different dimension. Some museums are only really good if you have children with you but this one works equally well without. The renewed building is a great setting for the wonderful mix of exhibits. It has something for everyone."
Helen Simmonds, Coventry
"Stones have lights in!"
Rowan Fisher
"A great museum recently revamped – good for family and children and also walking routes for buggies and great art pieces."
Chris P, Coventry
"It is an amazing place with loads to see and very friendly staff!"
Karmi Bains, Sutton Coldfield
"A family-friendly museum with lots to do and see for the whole family. An excellent day out."
Audrey Taylor, Marston Green
"Great hands-on educational fun for my grandchildren."
Diana Bellamy
"Provides a cultural centre within the centre of Coventry, a place that could do with as many of those as it can get."
Mark Neighbour
"Impressive architecture, relevant local and national interest exhibitions, well presented visually appealing galleries, excellent website, free family art activities, child-appropriate exhibitions."
Catherine Lovett, Coventry
"Excellent."
Ann and Andrew Clark
"The design of the building is wonderful with interesting and imaginative displays and exhibitions. Children are welcome. The museum staff have recently given support to the Coventry Historic Environment Project volunteers and put some of the pottery finds on display. We are so lucky to have such a museum and art gallery in Coventry."
Joy Shakespeare, Coventry
"My son works here and the place is amazing. He is so passionate about his work – he talks about nothing else!"
Jenny
"Great place for the family, our 14 month old baby adores the gallery and there is always something new to see. The Herbert café is a great place to relax."
E. Woodward, Coventry
"It's brilliant, really interactive and my daughter who is 5 has been going there since she was born. We love the drop-in activities for families in the school holidays where she loves making things. The installations are great fun and it's a lovely day out there."
Adele McDowell
"It’s a fantastic museum that I have taken my son to many times; we always enjoy our visits. The staff are always friendly and the exhibits always first class."
Craig Fish
"Family-friendly, excellent local history study centre, brilliantly extended, well presented exhibitions and touring exhibits, informal, with good café. Makes an architectural contribution to the city and the Cathedral square."
Nigel Clews, Coventry
"Excellent, interactive, child-friendly museum. Easy to access."
Yvonne Downey, Coventry
"Excellent facility to entertain all the family. Most helpful staff."
Liz Knight, Coventry
"The recent refurbishment, combined with the excellent exhibits, make it a fantastic place to visit for the whole family."
Kieron Hayes, Coventry
"The Herbert is a great museum – really family-friendly, good permanent exhibitions and always interesting temporary exhibitions. The building itself is very welcoming and we always enjoy every visit."
Marie Darwen, Leamington Spa
"It holds the most variety of art, artefacts and facilities that would suit a wide range of visitors. I could take my seven year old child and my 63 year old mother and in one way or another they would BOTH be most interested and WOWed by the excellent exhibition of interesting items. Our City would be a gloomier place without it! WE LOVE THE HERBERT ART GALLERY! :)"
Jo Alcock, Coventry
"The Elements Gallery is a fantastic interactive space for people of all ages and abilities!"
Laura Hilton
"The museum has things of interest for the whole family."
Roz, Coventry
"It's a great place for people of all ages to visit. We often pop into the museum during a shopping trip and there is always a pleasant buzz around the place. My son loves visiting and he loves participating into the special activity sessions. The Wallace and Gromit exhibition was excellent."
Miranda Cawley, Coventry
"Great for children, Free to get in. Absolutely fantastic exhibitions."
Sean McNulty, Coventry
"I visit The Herbert regularly with my children. They absolutely love the hands-on displays, as well as the activities organized by the museum. We often end up staying much longer than planned! It is really family-friendly, and brings history to life for children."
Juliet English, Coventry
"It has a wide range of displays and activities for all age ranges. It is excellent for all young people during school holidays with its extra activities. My grandson who is aged 6 really enjoyed the bee activities and all the art workshops."
S. Price
"It's one of our favourite places to go during the school holidays. The children's activities are great, the spaces have a wonderful feel, the café provides lots of healthy choices with a friendly service, the shop has a range of items which reflect current themes (including smaller items for children's pocket money) and the exhibitions are interactive and fun for all. At a time when we're all feeling the effects of the recession – it's a place you can go to forget your worries, but not have to spend a fortune."
Joscelyne Bigham, Coventry
"Because there is always something to see and it's free. My daughter was inspired to do a textile project after one exhibition we saw, and I was very moved to see the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition pictures recently. The food you can buy there warrants a visit by itself, even if you then didn't have access to the exhibitions. And you can even buy original pieces in the shop. I have a fantastic fish with a winch in the middle of it hanging in my kitchen!! Best of all, the museum is in the middle of town. So you can pop in and spend a small amount of time there, or plan and take a longer time to wander about."
Viv Emery, Coventry
"A great family day out. On our last day out as a family, it entertained us all on a cold and wet winter's day. Some of the exhibits were great for our pre-schooler and young toddler. We could see ourselves going back time and again to use it as a fun way for them to learn about our city and local culture. Winning this competition would help the gallery to keep facilitating this important role it plays in helping all generations to learn about the history of our city and culture and how decision making in society impacts upon us all."
Jo Currington, Rugby
"It’s a great place to spark interest in people of all ages. My four year old loves it, especially the "smelly vision" in the Coventry gallery. My 9 year old enjoys the gallery which allows interactivity to discover about Godiva and my 11 year old has found the peace and reconciliation gallery very informative and it has supported his school studies. As a family we visited the Wallace and Gromit exhibition and the children loved the models. They were inspired to make models at home in modelling clay. The Gallery inspires everyone of all ages."
V. Powell, Warwick
"It's a great day out. I often take my four year old son there at weekends. He loves it. There is always something on that attracts his attention and he's learning about his heritage as well. The staff teams are very welcoming and knowledgeable. It's a pleasure to spend a couple of hours there."
Karen Keirstrider, Coventry
"There is so much going on there and always something different and very hands-on for children. My six year old grandson loves going."
Virginia Rigby, Coventry
"My family does not live in Coventry but about 5 miles away. Most school holidays I visit the gallery and museum as there is always something on for the children and the majority of the time the activities are free. It is a lovely space for my daughter to explore. We have visited many times and will do so for many years to come"
Mrs. S.J. Newell, Bulkington
"A stylish and accessible gallery and museum with a wide variety of exhibitions and activities for all ages and tastes. I've visited with my young family to see Wallace & Gromit animation exhibition which was very popular, as well as personally for general interest, use of their café and media workshops. A great creative space – I'm glad it's there. If they were awarded the prize I'm certain that they would spend it both wisely and innovatively."
Joanne O'Driscoll, Coventry
"Family friendly and always something new to discover every time we visit."
Ben Goodwin, Birmingham
"My kids drag me in every time they are in town, as there's always something for them to do."
Andrew Reece, Coventry
"Friendly and enjoyable atmosphere with plenty of activities for all ages. Great family History centre with facilities to have a great day out not just for local people but for tourists too…"
Lolita Hinds
"It’s a great renewed space which is very accessible. It contains varied and very lively exhibitions which are often relevant but also enlightening to a wide range of audiences. It does not have a stuffy feel to it."
Richard, Coventry
"It's just great – loved the poignant exhibition of ceramic shoes as part of the Holocaust exhibitions..."
Elaine Tierney
"The Herbert should win this prize as not only does it cater for the older generation but for young people as well. When I visit with my grandchildren they all enjoy the exhibits and the paintings… I also enjoy the heritage part of the museum, where you can trace your family history and see old maps of Coventry and the surrounding areas."
Angela Waters
"Really great atmosphere – family-friendly; small children are made to feel welcome. Lots on offer – my teenager and his friends spend a lot of time there as they feel welcome and are interested in the activities and exhibitions."
Kerri Harris, Coventry
"Interactive exhibits, able to take young children individually and in groups to experience the museum hands-on and visually constantly changing and renewing."
Zoe Mapp, Coventry
"It is a fine asset to the city of Coventry. After Hitler’s attempted destruction of Coventry, there is not much to look at in the way of historical buildings. However, the Museum and Art Gallery brings the history to life explaining Coventry's unique story. My young family and I find the visiting exhibitions extremely enjoyable. Especially the recent Aardman production Wallace & Gromit exhibition. It would be great to win on that basis and to acknowledge and reward our local gallery and museum."
Katie McIlvaney, Long Itchington
"It has something for everyone! My children enjoy going there."
Rebecca Vaughan
"It has a great open and friendly atmosphere and good facilities for families and children. The school holiday workshops are fab; the staff are friendly and the building and galleries are open, airy and fresh!"
Emma Carnall
"It has great displays that even my two year old can get involved with, and also creates an interest in local history. Plus, it has a great café and shop. The staff are friendly and helpful."
Bobbie Kaye
"Absolutely fantastic place to take children, always activities during school hols. which are free so everyone can access art!"
Sara McGreevy, Coventry
