Home / Loved by Schools
"Here is a variety of Art and historical interests to suit all ages. I visit it maybe once every six weeks, and there is always something new to look at. Everything is presented with care and consideration of the subjects being displayed. The café and gift shop are very good too. Local art and crafts are sold in the gift shop, along with some books of local interest. The whole building is very light and airy and the new and old parts of the museum have been integrated very pleasingly. There are also some excellent workshops. Again to suit all ages. It is a real asset to the community."
Julia Yarrow, Coventry
Robin Johnson, Senior Learning Officer and manager of the Learning team briefly his thoughts about the team's work and why he loves working at the Herbert
"It's doing great things to encourage the Essential Skills learners we work with to access it both in class time and at other times with their families. It's making it accessible for many people who may not have entered a museum or art gallery before and it's giving people to opportunity to learn about and experience new things."
Heather Blevins, Lutterworth
"Its education service is first rate and it is truly a child friendly museum; for instance the history galleries. Its design promotes community involvement."
Maureen Martin
"The Herbert makes a wonderful community resource contributing enormously to the cultural life of Coventry. Situated between the Council House, statutory Services Offices and the Cathedral quarter it offers an interesting and well designed oasis of calm to pop into for a quiet browse, purchase a Coventry-relevant gift, and sometimes meet friends and colleagues for a coffee or a very nice meal served by friendly staff, chosen from an interesting, varied menu and served in clean and congenial surroundings. When working with in schools with children who were profoundly deaf we visited the Herbert both to tour the museum and took part in some of the active artistic events for children. They were well organised and always very interactive keeping pupils who had problems concentrating for long engaged and busy. Beautifully upgraded, the Herbert is now even more visitor-friendly and makes an even greater contribution to the community."
Barbara Tudor
"I think this is one of the most successful gallery and museum spaces in the West Midlands and is very much needed in Coventry. As a Coventry Univeristy student studying in Art I feel that if they where to win it would continue to massively influence my way of thinking, creating and enhance my qualifications along with many others."
Taz Lovejoy, Birmingham
"Fantastic venue, well used by local schools and young people, excellent meeting place, central location, great shop for interesting gifts, super helpful staff, a real nugget in the midst of Coventry's otherwise mundane town centre."
Geraldine Hartshorne
"The Herbert has been an important part of our city for a long time. 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, yet it is still somewhere where people can go on their own for a browse or something specific. It is a great location for schools and group visits and the staff are always friendly, helpful and informative. I have used the Herbert recently for a Gifted and Talented day and a more appropriate place to hold it could not have been found. It truly deserves these funds."
Millie Ross
"It is a great free facility which ensures that the exhibitions are modern, interesting and accessible. The museum is attractive and welcoming for all the family. It is used by schools as a learning experience and great day out with minimum cost. Recently the museum brought an exhibition right into my child's classroom which provided a great opportunity to the children and they were thrilled. A great facility providing great value for money."
Carmel Palmer, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery Museum has been a part of all Coventry children’s lives. Regardless of the type of education – private or state, all Coventry schools make use of this establishment, and everyone is made extremely welcome. Any support for the museum would be welcome as given the lack of employment opportunities in Coventry mainly due to car manufacturing decreasing the museum is not receiving many donations."
Mrs. R. Swaffield, Coventry
"The new museum building alongside the University and the Cathedral looks stunning. This is important to our coach visitors. It has the WOW factor which I believe deserves prizes for the design. I have taken children's groups to the new galleries; it was fantastic to see their faces light up. Coventry should feel proud of the museum."
Debora Hill
"The Herbert is an excellent local resource. I have taken classes of pupils with very severe and complex special educational needs to use the resource collections for topics such as Second World War at the gallery and the staff have always been very welcoming, warm and helpful."
Clare Barnett, Atherstone
"An exciting innovative art gallery and museum putting a once great city back on the arts and education map."
Herry Lawford – Step Grand Son of Founder Sir Alfred Herbert
"It’s so well laid out and you always feel welcome. Your interest is maintained throughout."
Deborah Dyer
"A comfortable welcoming place to wander freely. So much to see and learn. Great for all ages."
Barbara Mckellar, Corby
"Here is a variety of Art and historical interests to suit all ages. I visit it maybe once every six weeks, and there is always something new to look at. Everything is presented with care and consideration of the subjects being displayed. The café and gift shop are very good too. Local art and crafts are sold in the gift shop, along with some books of local interest. The whole building is very light and airy and the new and old parts of the museum have been integrated very pleasingly. There are also some excellent workshops. Again to suit all ages. It is a real asset to the community."
Julia Yarrow, Coventry
"It's doing great things to encourage the Essential Skills learners we work with to access it both in class time and at other times with their families. It's making it accessible for many people who may not have entered a museum or art gallery before and it's giving people to opportunity to learn about and experience new things."
Heather Blevins, Lutterworth
"Its education service is first rate and it is truly a child friendly museum; for instance the history galleries. Its design promotes community involvement."
Maureen Martin
"The Herbert makes a wonderful community resource contributing enormously to the cultural life of Coventry. Situated between the Council House, statutory Services Offices and the Cathedral quarter it offers an interesting and well designed oasis of calm to pop into for a quiet browse, purchase a Coventry-relevant gift, and sometimes meet friends and colleagues for a coffee or a very nice meal served by friendly staff, chosen from an interesting, varied menu and served in clean and congenial surroundings. When working with in schools with children who were profoundly deaf we visited the Herbert both to tour the museum and took part in some of the active artistic events for children. They were well organised and always very interactive keeping pupils who had problems concentrating for long engaged and busy. Beautifully upgraded, the Herbert is now even more visitor-friendly and makes an even greater contribution to the community."
Barbara Tudor
"I think this is one of the most successful gallery and museum spaces in the West Midlands and is very much needed in Coventry. As a Coventry Univeristy student studying in Art I feel that if they where to win it would continue to massively influence my way of thinking, creating and enhance my qualifications along with many others."
Taz Lovejoy, Birmingham
"The Herbert has been an important part of our city for a long time. 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, yet it is still somewhere where people can go on their own for a browse or something specific. It is a great location for schools and group visits and the staff are always friendly, helpful and informative. I have used the Herbert recently for a Gifted and Talented day and a more appropriate place to hold it could not have been found. It truly deserves these funds."
Millie Ross
"It is a great free facility which ensures that the exhibitions are modern, interesting and accessible. The museum is attractive and welcoming for all the family. It is used by schools as a learning experience and great day out with minimum cost. Recently the museum brought an exhibition right into my child's classroom which provided a great opportunity to the children and they were thrilled. A great facility providing great value for money."
Carmel Palmer, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery Museum has been a part of all Coventry children’s lives. Regardless of the type of education – private or state, all Coventry schools make use of this establishment, and everyone is made extremely welcome. Any support for the museum would be welcome as given the lack of employment opportunities in Coventry mainly due to car manufacturing decreasing the museum is not receiving many donations."
Mrs. R. Swaffield, Coventry
"The new museum building alongside the University and the Cathedral looks stunning. This is important to our coach visitors. It has the WOW factor which I believe deserves prizes for the design. I have taken children's groups to the new galleries; it was fantastic to see their faces light up. Coventry should feel proud of the museum."
Debora Hill
"The Herbert is an excellent local resource. I have taken classes of pupils with very severe and complex special educational needs to use the resource collections for topics such as Second World War at the gallery and the staff have always been very welcoming, warm and helpful"
Clare Barnett, Atherstone
"An exciting innovative art gallery and museum putting a once great city back on the arts and education map."
Herry Lawford – Step Grand Son of Founder Sir Alfred Herbert
"It’s so well laid out and you always feel welcome. Your interest is maintained throughout."
Deborah Dyer
"A comfortable welcoming place to wander freely. So much to see and learn. Great for all ages."
Barbara Mckellar, Corby
"Here is a variety of Art and historical interests to suit all ages. I visit it maybe once every six weeks, and there is always something new to look at. Everything is presented with care and consideration of the subjects being displayed. The café and gift shop are very good too. Local art and crafts are sold in the gift shop, along with some books of local interest. The whole building is very light and airy and the new and old parts of the museum have been integrated very pleasingly. There are also some excellent workshops. Again to suit all ages. It is a real asset to the community."
Julia Yarrow, Coventry
"Great events for the kids during the holidays, fantastic free exhibitions, a media centre upstairs and delicious food down stairs for everyone all make for a great day out."
Andrew Brooks, Coventry
"It's doing great things to encourage the Essential Skills learners we work with to access it both in class time and at other times with their families. It's making it accessible for many people who may not have entered a museum or art gallery before and it's giving people to opportunity to learn about and experience new things."
Heather Blevins, Lutterworth
"Its education service is first rate and it is truly a child friendly museum; for instance the history galleries. Its design promotes community involvement."
Maureen Martin
"The Herbert makes a wonderful community resource contributing enormously to the cultural life of Coventry. Situated between the Council House, statutory Services Offices and the Cathedral quarter it offers an interesting and well designed oasis of calm to pop into for a quiet browse, purchase a Coventry-relevant gift, and sometimes meet friends and colleagues for a coffee or a very nice meal served by friendly staff, chosen from an interesting, varied menu and served in clean and congenial surroundings. When working with in schools with children who were profoundly deaf we visited the Herbert both to tour the museum and took part in some of the active artistic events for children. They were well organised and always very interactive keeping pupils who had problems concentrating for long engaged and busy. Beautifully upgraded, the Herbert is now even more visitor-friendly and makes an even greater contribution to the community."
Barbara Tudor
"I think this is one of the most successful gallery and museum spaces in the West Midlands and is very much needed in Coventry. As a Coventry Univeristy student studying in Art I feel that if they where to win it would continue to massively influence my way of thinking, creating and enhance my qualifications along with many others."
Taz Lovejoy, Birmingham
"Fantastic venue, well used by local schools and young people, excellent meeting place, central location, great shop for interesting gifts, super helpful staff, a real nugget in the midst of Coventry's otherwise mundane town centre."
Geraldine Hartshorne
"This is a very valuable asset for Coventry, centrally situated, and easy to get to. It has interesting displays and will be an educational facility for all schools local and rural for years to come. It is most important that the heritage in Coventry is showcased for all."
Jon Redhead, Kenilworth
"For a teacher the Herbert is a fantastic teaching resource, from the website which offers information and many pictures, to the gallery itself which has excellent "hands-on" exhibits for the children to experience."
Mrs. J. Parkins, Coventry
"I go with the children from our school on visits and every time we go we really enjoy ourselves! The staff are freindly and there is always something of interest going on."
Susan Nalus
"It is part of our heritage in Coventry and is evolving year by year. It provides access to historic underground chambers and is a source of education across the city, allowing the hosting of school events as well as, of course, being our very own art museum."
S. Jones
"The Herbert has been an important part of our city for a long time. 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, yet it is still somewhere where people can go on their own for a browse or something specific. It is a great location for schools and group visits and the staff are always friendly, helpful and informative. I have used the Herbert recently for a Gifted and Talented day and a more appropriate place to hold it could not have been found. It truly deserves these funds."
Millie Ross
"It is a great free facility which ensures that the exhibitions are modern, interesting and accessible. The museum is attractive and welcoming for all the family. It is used by schools as a learning experience and great day out with minimum cost. Recently the museum brought an exhibition right into my child's classroom which provided a great opportunity to the children and they were thrilled. A great facility providing great value for money."
Carmel Palmer, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery Museum has been a part of all Coventry children’s lives. Regardless of the type of education – private or state, all Coventry schools make use of this establishment, and everyone is made extremely welcome. Any support for the museum would be welcome as given the lack of employment opportunities in Coventry mainly due to car manufacturing decreasing the museum is not receiving many donations."
Mrs. R. Swaffield, Coventry
"The new museum building alongside the University, the Cathedral looks stunning. This is important to our coach visitors. It has the WOW factor which I believe deserves prizes for the design. I have taken children's groups to the new galleries; it was fantastic to see their faces light up. Coventry should feel proud of The Herbert is an excellent local resource. I have taken classes of pupils with very severe and complex special educational needs to use the resource collections for topics such as Second World War at the gallery and the staff have always been very welcoming, warm and helpful."
Clare Barnett, Atherstone
"I really enjoyed my visit."
Kelly Hadley, Wolverhampton
"It is the most historical museum. It has big collections. Moreover the gallery is too rich with art collections."
Faizunnessa Hassan, Newcastle upon Tyne
"The Herbert is a state of the art facility encompassing both new and old. Similar the appeal is to the diverse populous of Coventry catering for all ages - this is reflected by the footfall it enjoys. There is ALWAYS something of interest going on!"
Salim Bhayat, Coventry
"Wonderful accessibility for all in the heart of the City next to both Cathedral and University: a light, airy, inviting building."
David Mayhew
"Its refurbishment has created a stunning facility which has developed programmes for the whole community. It is used, and treasured by people of all ages, and from far and wide."
Michael Goldstein
"The recent extension has created a wonderful heritage focus at the heart of the City. The exhibitions capture the spirit and diversity of a great City and help everybody to understand a little more about their City, their neighbours and themselves."
Tim Bryan
"Just celebrated its 50th year reflecting Coventry’s heritage and historical artefacts from Coventry people of the past. Of particular interest was the family learning programme, as I have two young children; it was great to see them enjoy and engage during their visit with the help from Herbot, the friendly museum robot."
Paul Fenner, Coventry
"It’s new and fresh; a lot of hard work and money have gone into it. It’s free and parent-friendly and not run by our local council so it struggles hard to survive and does not charge like most art galleries but is always having new ideas and helpful staff, so I think any award is a testament to the staff and gallery itself."
Chris, Coventry
"Because it gives Coventry back a rich culture, which is accessible for all people, young and old. It brings into their lives a range of displays, products and experiences that otherwise would not be available to them. From families being able to access the café culture coffee shop to serious art and displays, it is now an enshrined part of Coventry and Warwickshire culture and most importantly - people have taken to it and it is being used."
Steve Stewart, Coventry, West Midlands
"It is not just an art gallery and museum but caters for all ages with frequent events from tea dances to women-only discussions, and its media centre for music making. Lots of school visits too. A great asset for Coventry and district."
A. Johnson
"When I grew up in post-war Coventry, the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum was my introduction to contemporary art. It still maintains its position as a vital component of the artistic life of Coventry and the new building enhances the experience of visiting the exhibits. There are far more educational opportunities available to Coventry's youth in the new space, which is a beautiful addition to the city. Hopefully, the new Herbert Art Gallery and Museum will set the bar for further architectural advances in Coventry city center."
Lynne Richardson, Dallas
"The Herbert, with its new extension, provides an impressive display of art and artefacts and facilitates learning for schools and the public in an impressive way."
Clive Benfield, Gaydon
"Over the last few years the Herbert Art Gallery has seen a very significant and impressive transformation of the buildings in which the many excellent exhibitions are housed. It is my view that the potential for the art gallery to achieve more is clearly there."
Jim Cunningham MP
"For exciting and imaginative displays of a high quality. Exhibits are brought to life and children are actively encouraged into the museum. There's always something for every age group and most accessible. Modern architecture and works from the past combine to make a visit thought-provoking and entertaining."
Rachel Willis, Coventry
"For a 'small' city like Coventry we are very lucky to have such a great facility as the Herbert. For free! The permanent history exhibitions are wonderful and the travelling ones are always great quality. The activities laid on for children and the events in the fabulous atrium make it worth a visit most weekends."
Richard Harrison
"The Herbert Gallery and Museum has made a lot of changes in recent years to connect with the public and provide inspirational exhibitions and activities. The staff are friendly and helpful. I work with adults with learning disabilities who have also enjoyed their experiences there."
Jo Ann Dundas
"I worked there as a volunteer for a few months early last year and I really enjoyed working with the staff and collections. I think that the redevelopment is fantastic; the temporary exhibitions are really good and pull people in including myself. The permanent ones are good too, especially the history gallery telling the story of Coventry. It's also good to be able to look at more of the collection in the What's in Store? area - gives people more of an insight. The collections are very well cared for and the facilities are great too."
Laura Murray
"I am a frequent visitor to Coventry and the Herbert provides a welcoming, calm space for meetings – personal and professional. It is in a great central location and well placed to be a community space. It has arresting temporary small displays for the busy visitor. I am a Disabled person and it has good access for those with physical impairments."
Joanna Matthews
"We would find this additional boost to income a great benefit to our work and in reaching out to new communities of arts participators!"
Rosie
"It’s a good museum."
Angela Bakewell
"This museum is in the heart of the city and has recently undergone a massive transformation, bringing it back into the hearts of the Coventry people. It’s an innovative and exciting place which appeals to the young and old alike."
Nicki Woodward, Welford
"It is very open and accessible to all and offers a wide range of activities. It has a good inclusion policy and will extend this as needed. It is aesthetically beautiful. The staff are helpful and friendly. It attracts a wide range of age groups and offers all sorts of art/music activities. Has great catering facilities."
Rachel Hogg, Leamington Spa
"A beautiful museum which complements the cathedral."
Michael Tovey, Coventry
"My 2 year old son loves the Herbert – it’s his favourite place in the world! The staff are friendly and welcoming – the exhibitions are interesting with lots to explore. There are sculptures to build (and knock down), horses to race, costumes to wear, stories to hear, films to watch, things to make, drawers and cupboards to open and investigate and glass lifts to go up and down. Thank you!"
Catherine Bartlem, Coventry
"Over the last ten years I have seen it develop from a traditional museum space into a contemporary, lively and welcoming environment. The exhibitions appeal to all and are very accessible to the wider population of Coventry – they embrace diversity, age and interest. A two year old can find as much to engage with as an 80 year old. The profile of the exhibitions is good, the educational value is excellent and it imbues the creative heritage and the future vision of the city."
Karen Bull, Middle Stoke
"Excellent design – good use of space and light. Relaxing and welcoming environment."
Tony Skipper, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is now showing touring V&A exhibitions such as Fashion V Sport and students studying Fashion at Coventry University have been able to show their work alongside this particular exhibition. The School of Art and Design at Coventry University are building links with The Herbert to do more exhibitions of staff and students work."
Ann Muirhead, Derby
"A wonderful building which sits well in the medieval quarter of Coventry and now houses an increased variety of exhibitions and workshops for all ages."
David Mooney, Coventry
"Accessibility = easy friendly café with own exhibits."
Sinead Ouillon, Coventry
"The bright new and renewed spaces are a pleasure to go into. This is such an important museum as Coventry has nothing else! The collections are interesting and the temporary exhibitions are broad ranging and relevant to society. The extension is something to be proud of architecturally and the new history rooms/research spaces are well set out and light and airy to spend time in."
Imogen Aust, Coventry
"The Herbert is a beautiful building and houses some very fine pieces. Its contents are wide-ranging and well displayed and interpreted. The staff members are friendly. The Herbert art gallery is opposite where I work and is a great getaway if I need some time out. The café serves delicious coffee and lunches and is a great meeting place."
John Habron, Manchester
"It is inclusive, works well with the diverse community of Coventry. It is a good space to move around, flexible, light, not off-putting."
Val Hill, Coventry
"It’s wonderful in many ways. But what really stands out for me is how much thought has gone into keeping children entertained in every section, letting the adults really enjoy the exhibits."
Heidi Kind, Atherstone
"I think the Herbert should win because their exhibitions have fun and clever interactive displays and things to do which help you remember what you saw and learned. In the recent animation exhibition you could even have a go at animating which was ace! I also like that they have workshops and things you can just go along to and join in. I loved learning about Chinese musical instruments and even got to have a go on them. I also love the design of the museum itself; it’s a brilliant looking museum. And the café serves really great food too so you can have a nice break while between exhibits. I've enjoyed every visit to the Herbert and seen or learnt something new. It’s a really inspiring place to visit."
Sarah Parr, Rugby
"It gives a great insight to our city past and present. The galleries are bright and clean – welcoming not too clinical. Lots of variety and appealing to all ages. Great children’s workshops held in the school holidays. Good hands-on workshops for schools to take part in – makes learning about our history more interesting. Nice clean toilets and nice refreshment area. Staff friendly and helpful and informative on the galleries. Shop is well stocked with a good choice of merchandise from souvenirs on Godiva , variety of books on Coventry and Warwickshire, jewellery and toys to name but a few of the items."
Caroline Hobday, Coventry
"In a city with few cultural facilities or resources (it missed out on Victorian philanthropy and the bombing was a deep set back in its cultural life) the Herbert plays a vital part in the city of Coventry's life and in its self-understanding. The new extension is a landmark piece of architectural art in its own right, its collection is excellent and its imaginative exhibitions, often celebrating the life and history of Coventry, are a great asset to the people of the city and a vital contribution to our common life."
The Bishop of Coventry
"We have visited a number of times and always been made very welcome. We have enjoyed a variety of experiences such as the Chinese musical instruments that we were allowed to try out as well as being able to hear how they should sound. The Wallace and Gromit exhibition was excellent with lots of 'hands-on' things for children to do and we enjoyed doing origami on another visit. The permanent displays are fascinating and the changing exhibitions make it worth visiting over and over again. It is very family-friendly. Good food too!"
Mo Parr, Rugby
"My seven year old son and I spend a lot of time at the Herbert whilst his big brother is singing in Coventry Cathedral Choir. There is always something new to see with lots of interactive games for children and grown ups. We love the elements display, collecting the stickers and the brilliant bird calls section. On the way out we always have to smell the mediaeval toilet – boys love toilet humour!!! This Easter we are going to try the art workshop too – the Herbert is accessible to everyone and we think it should definitely win the prize."
Verity Pilgrim, Southam
"A lively place to go: besides the variety of art exhibitions, they have also made space available for local community groups to put on displays e.g. Willenhall Local History Group. They have a specially built set of rooms for local and family history. Altho' I have not had occasion to use the facilities for children myself, the younger members of my family and friends tell me that arrangements for children’s activities are excellent. I find the restaurant – although a bit pricey for families – excellent with interesting and well cooked food, especially as I am a vegetarian and for once, well catered for."
Anne Skene
"Thoroughly enjoyed it as a teacher and group leader. A first rate learning opportunity supported by helpful and welcoming staff. The children have got a real feel for history through this experience."
Teacher from St Thomas School Warwickshire
"An exciting innovative art gallery and museum putting a once great city back on the arts and education map."
Herry Lawford – Step Grand Son of Founder Sir Alfred Herbert
"It’s so well laid out and you always feel welcome. Your interest is maintained throughout."
Deborah Dyer
"A comfortable welcoming place to wander freely. So much to see and learn. Great for all ages."
Barbara Mckellar, Corby
"Great events for the kids during the holidays, fantastic free exhibitions, a media centre upstairs and delicious food down stairs for everyone all make for a great day out."
Teacher from St Thomas School Warwickshire
"Great events for the kids during the holidays, fantastic free exhibitions, a media centre upstairs and delicious food down stairs for everyone all make for a great day out."
Andrew Brooks, Coventry
"The exhibitions that I have been to have been outstanding. The one about the bombing of Coventry really opened my eyes to the tragedy of what occurred here. But also the determination of the Coventry people to rebuild the city. Excellent – well done Herbert art gallery."
Sheila Smith, Coventry
"Since the refurbishment and expansion, The Herbert is a vital part of Coventry's cultural life and plays an important role in attracting tourists to Coventry."
P. Burilin
"A superb museum which has recently been transformed!"
John Reid, Coventry
"It's great – The Herbert has something for every generation, young and old, educating all who come in both a fun and interactive way."
Hannah Edmonds
"The Herbert Art Gallery is a cultural oasis in a city that doesn’t have many other cultural opportunities. The city is striving to become a more pleasant and more cultural place to live but is sadly being held back by the recession. This gallery makes itself accessible to the people of Coventry and is especially welcoming to children."
Delia Davies, Coventry
"Because it's a lovely local museum which offers something for everyone in a town with a great heritage, but which is only just emerging from a brutalist attempt at revival in the 50s and 60s which didn't quite deliver in the 70s, 80s and 90s. Give Coventry a chance."
Liz Thompson
"The Herbert now takes full advantage of its location. The marriage of open space, cathedral, museum with atmosphere, history and the contemporary is beautiful and effective. The materials used and the space created by the extension are both impressive and memorable. The galleries, with their colour, object-rich displays and accessibility, tell the stories of the people of Coventry in an accessible and interesting way. I really enjoyed my visit and I do hope locals and visitors loved it as much as we did. Thank you."
Lynette Burgess
"I was surprised at how imaginative the museum was and how much there was to interest a wide range of interests and ages – even for the very young."
Doug Kemp, Nuneaton
"Because it has improved so much in appearance and layout and is welcoming to young and old alike."
Norma Hampson,
Stratford-upon-Avon
"Fantastic venue, well used by local schools and young people, excellent meeting place, central location, great shop for interesting gifts, super helpful staff, a real nugget in the midst of Coventry's otherwise mundane town centre."
Geraldine Hartshorne
"This is a very valuable asset for Coventry, centrally situated, and easy to get to. It has interesting displays and will be an educational facility for all schools local and rural for years to come. It is most important that the heritage in Coventry is showcased for all."
Jon Redhead, Kenilworth
"For a teacher the Herbert is a fantastic teaching resource, from the website which offers information and many pictures, to the gallery itself which has excellent "hands-on" exhibits for the children to experience."
Mrs. J. Parkins, Coventry
"I go with the children from our school on visits and every time we go we really enjoy ourselves! The staff are freindly and there is always something of interest going on."
Susan Nalus
"It is part of our heritage in Coventry and is evolving year by year. It provides access to historic underground chambers and is a source of education across the city, allowing the hosting of school events as well as, of course, being our very own art museum."
S. Jones
"Superb facility for Coventry which is the only real outlet to see exhibitions."
Phil Radbourne, Coventry
"Superb new facility that has really opened its doors and encouraged the public in. Well run and innovative in its ideas."
Brian Colquhoun
"Absolutely brilliant food – a great place to eat."
Ruth Walker, Coventry
"Because it’s the best!"
Danny Watkins, Stafford
"An awesome gallery with brilliant staff... worthy winners."
Dimitris Markos
"Because it is our local museum; we browse it on rainy days and sit outside on sunny days. It is free and accessible to all, and it is lovely to have some culture in the city centre, I wish there was more of it."
Lynn Donald
"Fantastic building, interesting collections and great café."
Kate Hammond
"The staff demonstrate their massive commitment to their work consistently. They liaise well with the people of Coventry and include people from all walks of life in their planning for events. Very good provision for early years’ groups and families with lots of participation and interesting activities."
Alison Docker
"A superb recreation of a typical Midlands working village of the time that should be seen by every child."
Michael Mander, Bridgnorth
"This is a very valuable asset for Coventry, centrally situated, and easy to get to. It has interesting displays and will be an educational facility for all schools local and rural for years to come. It is most important that the heritage in Coventry is showcased for all."
Jon Redhead, Kenilworth
"For a teacher the Herbert is a fantastic teaching resource, from the website which offers information and many pictures, to the gallery itself which has excellent "hands-on" exhibits for the children to experience."
Mrs. J. Parkins, Coventry
"I go with the children from our school on visits and every time we go we really enjoy ourselves! The staff are freindly and there is always something of interest going on."
Susan Nalus
"It is part of our heritage in Coventry and is evolving year by year. It provides access to historic underground chambers and is a source of education across the city, allowing the hosting of school events as well as, of course, being our very own art museum."
S. Jones
"It's been revamped, it’s friendly, it’s moving far away from the 1950's image of Coventry."
Stella Turner, Coventry
"This is an innovative local museum that reflects the history of Coventry but has a sharp eye on the future."
Anne-Marie McTavish
"It is innovative, hands-on and an attractive building in an interesting location with a good café!"
Richard Green
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is a wonderful creative landmark in the City of Coventry. It has a lot to offer to its diverse people, with varied interests and accommodates all ages and cultures. Coventry deserves more and we really want the Herbert to win so that all in Coventry and the region benefit from it."
Geeta Sarcar, Coventry
"To inherit a mixed collection and give it a synergy is a challenge which the Herbert has addressed extremely well. There are so many facets to the museum that it encourages repeat visits. The new architectural elements are pleasing and provide a positive link between it and the new cathedral opposite."
Dianne Page, Chadwick End
"It's a place for the people of Coventry and beyond that celebrates and embraces heritage and diversity."
Gill Holmes
"Innovative and frequently changing displays. Staff willing to provide access for people with disabilities e.g. for deaf and deaf-blind."
Adam Fielder
"Not just revamped but reinvented and rooted in the city, its history and culture."
Richard Tomlins, Coventry
"The Herbert Museum and Art Gallery since its redevelopment has quickly become a hub for the local community. The displays are attractive and accessible, a diverse range of events for all ages is offered and it’s free! The museum's exciting design has also helped to regenerate the whole cathedral quarter. I am a regular visitor and I love it."
Olwyn Ditchburn, Coventry
"A small gallery and museum, it has a homely feel and so people are not intimidated by having cavernous and innumerable rooms to go through. It is also very child-friendly, with school children being particularly welcome."
Rekha Narula, Coventry
"Excellent design for the conversion. Exhibitions for all tastes including an active programme for children. Good facilities including a spacious café."
Bob Clark, Coventry
"The new museum's contemporary style reflects the changing face of Coventry and gives meaning to the richness of the City's history."
Valerie Sale
"The new premises and Trust team are bringing a range of amenities to Coventry that are sorely needed, and all audiences of all ages are targeted."
James Smith
"The Herbert has been completely transformed over the last couple of years. It's a place that people in Coventry can be proud of – and the city needs that. The new extension is stunning and the whole feel of the place is really bright and welcoming. Even people who don't normally visit museums seem to feel at home there and there's a lot for families to do, but at the same time there's a real depth to the displays and you can go regularly and still find out more."
Alison Taylor
"Our learning team has been delivering excellent results all year. It would be amazing to win this prize. Recognition for all our work and the hard work of our regional partners."
Robin Johnson
"I was a small child when the Herbert opened and I have so many happy memories of visits with my parents, with my children and, more recently, with my grandchildren. Like a phoenix from the ashes of the Blitz, the Herbert, with its diverse collections, exhibitions and interactive displays, has educated and entertained generations of Coventry's children."
Julie Moran, Coventry
"It is a pleasant venue, full of interesting galleries reflecting local history and culture yet aware of the international, multicultural dimension of the city of Coventry. Staff go out of their way to encourage visits by ESOL learners, including asylum seekers, refugees and migrant workers, whose experience of the Herbert confirms the sense of a welcoming local community and an interesting culture."
Sarah Campbell, Leamington Spa
"It is a first class venue for all sorts of exhibitions and events, very centralised, modern and upmarket building which caters for the public and youth of today's society. It has excellent facilities for everyone to use whether as an artist or a viewing member of the public and includes a first rate cafeteria/restaurant and child facilities, which are so essential today."
Marilyn-Valentine, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery is a great place; it's full of great things to do especially in the holidays. There is loads for the kids and it's fun, educational and informative. In the holidays workshops are run for children. They are brilliant and always well attended. It gives the kids something to do in the holidays and it's free! The staff are really enthusiastic and the exhibits are different with interactive activities for all ages. The Herbert Art Gallery really deserves this prize and with the money it could be improved even more."
Lucy
"It has recently had a very impressive extension built and has been generally refurbished. It has very good permanent exhibitions relating to the history and people of Coventry and also has constantly changing temporary and visiting exhibitions. It is very 'family-friendly' with attractions for all ages including a 'soft play' area for little ones and puts on special activities for children during all the school holidays. The café and shop are also excellent."
Margaret Owen, Hywel Owen and Julia Kelly
"The extension of The Herbert is a long overdue project in Coventry offering for the first time a quality environment for Art in the city centre. Coventry is often overlooked in favour of 'Bigger, better or bolder cities' and for once has an opportunity to showcase its great history in an accomplished new vibrant setting."
Kevin Keane
"It has transformed itself and how people feel about the city both those that live here and those that visit... it makes me feel proud of the city and has given my children hours upon hours of pleasure..."
Adam Stanton
"The Herbert has experienced a great improvement since the opening of its extension. It is not only an excellent museum and gallery with permanent and temporary exhibitions, but a multi-functional and well-designed building that contributes positively to Coventry's public realm. I always take whoever visits me there. And it has some hidden gems as well, such as the medieval cellar."
Katerina Frankova
"We are very lucky to have a museum like The Herbert Art Gallery which has provided us lots of free activities for children over holidays as well as guided tour for schools and various projects in association across the communities over different topics but most importantly it plays an important role of reminding the significance of Coventry history."
Agnes
"It furthers the cultural and historic knowledge and enjoyment of Coventry, which has many socially deprived groups."
Jennifer Lim
"Because it is an excellent museum, well-presented and informative especially the wartime Coventry Blitz section. However, it is badly in need of structural refurbishment and lacks the necessary funding to achieve the repairs. Without which, certain work and viewing areas are presently not viable." B. Swan, Coventry
"It is such a beautiful place to have in the community and it would be a tragedy if Coventry ever lost it."
Mrs. R. Brandist
"It's brilliant!"
Mark Byatt
"Herbert and its supporters have transformed both the gallery and museum and its contents to be really attractive to the people of Coventry. So worthwhile a visit. The theme of reconciliation and peace activities is prominent and must be unique in museums in Britain. Thank you."
David Fish, Lutterworth
"In recent years Herbert Art Gallery has been given a major facelift. This has opened up the gallery and made it a wonderful place to visit. The gallery is magnificent and always caters for a wide audience. It is a valuable asset to the people of Coventry and those travelling from afar to view its collections. I hope the gallery can maintain its magnificence for years to come. It is both a pleasure and delight to visit the gallery."
Abdul Salam Khan
Teacher from St Thomas School Warwickshire
"An exciting innovative art gallery and museum putting a once great city back on the arts and education map."
Herry Lawford – Step Grand Son of Founder Sir Alfred Herbert
"It’s so well laid out and you always feel welcome. Your interest is maintained throughout."
Deborah Dyer
"A comfortable welcoming place to wander freely. So much to see and learn. Great for all ages."
Barbara Mckellar, Corby
"Great events for the kids during the holidays, fantastic free exhibitions, a media centre upstairs and delicious food down stairs for everyone all make for a great day out."
Teacher from St Thomas School Warwickshire
"Great events for the kids during the holidays, fantastic free exhibitions, a media centre upstairs and delicious food down stairs for everyone all make for a great day out."
Andrew Brooks, Coventry
"The exhibitions that I have been to have been outstanding. The one about the bombing of Coventry really opened my eyes to the tragedy of what occurred here. But also the determination of the Coventry people to rebuild the city. Excellent – well done Herbert art gallery."
Sheila Smith, Coventry
"Since the refurbishment and expansion, The Herbert is a vital part of Coventry's cultural life and plays an important role in attracting tourists to Coventry."
P. Burilin
"A superb museum which has recently been transformed!"
John Reid, Coventry
"It's great – The Herbert has something for every generation, young and old, educating all who come in both a fun and interactive way."
Hannah Edmonds
"The Herbert Art Gallery is a cultural oasis in a city that doesn’t have many other cultural opportunities. The city is striving to become a more pleasant and more cultural place to live but is sadly being held back by the recession. This gallery makes itself accessible to the people of Coventry and is especially welcoming to children."
Delia Davies, Coventry
"Because it's a lovely local museum which offers something for everyone in a town with a great heritage, but which is only just emerging from a brutalist attempt at revival in the 50s and 60s which didn't quite deliver in the 70s, 80s and 90s. Give Coventry a chance."
Liz Thompson
"The Herbert now takes full advantage of its location. The marriage of open space, cathedral, museum with atmosphere, history and the contemporary is beautiful and effective. The materials used and the space created by the extension are both impressive and memorable. The galleries, with their colour, object-rich displays and accessibility, tell the stories of the people of Coventry in an accessible and interesting way. I really enjoyed my visit and I do hope locals and visitors loved it as much as we did. Thank you."
Lynette Burgess
"I was surprised at how imaginative the museum was and how much there was to interest a wide range of interests and ages – even for the very young."
Doug Kemp, Nuneaton
"Because it has improved so much in appearance and layout and is welcoming to young and old alike."
Norma Hampson,
Stratford-upon-Avon
"Fantastic venue, well used by local schools and young people, excellent meeting place, central location, great shop for interesting gifts, super helpful staff, a real nugget in the midst of Coventry's otherwise mundane town centre."
Geraldine Hartshorne
"This is a very valuable asset for Coventry, centrally situated, and easy to get to. It has interesting displays and will be an educational facility for all schools local and rural for years to come. It is most important that the heritage in Coventry is showcased for all."
Jon Redhead, Kenilworth
"For a teacher the Herbert is a fantastic teaching resource, from the website which offers information and many pictures, to the gallery itself which has excellent "hands-on" exhibits for the children to experience."
Mrs. J. Parkins, Coventry
"I go with the children from our school on visits and every time we go we really enjoy ourselves! The staff are freindly and there is always something of interest going on."
Susan Nalus
"It is part of our heritage in Coventry and is evolving year by year. It provides access to historic underground chambers and is a source of education across the city, allowing the hosting of school events as well as, of course, being our very own art museum."
S. Jones
"Superb facility for Coventry which is the only real outlet to see exhibitions."
Phil Radbourne, Coventry
"Superb new facility that has really opened its doors and encouraged the public in. Well run and innovative in its ideas."
Brian Colquhoun
"Absolutely brilliant food – a great place to eat."
Ruth Walker, Coventry
"Because it’s the best!"
Danny Watkins, Stafford
"An awesome gallery with brilliant staff... worthy winners."
Dimitris Markos
"Because it is our local museum; we browse it on rainy days and sit outside on sunny days. It is free and accessible to all, and it is lovely to have some culture in the city centre, I wish there was more of it."
Lynn Donald
"Fantastic building, interesting collections and great café."
Kate Hammond
"The staff demonstrate their massive commitment to their work consistently. They liaise well with the people of Coventry and include people from all walks of life in their planning for events. Very good provision for early years’ groups and families with lots of participation and interesting activities."
Alison Docker
"A superb recreation of a typical Midlands working village of the time that should be seen by every child."
Michael Mander, Bridgnorth
"This is a very valuable asset for Coventry, centrally situated, and easy to get to. It has interesting displays and will be an educational facility for all schools local and rural for years to come. It is most important that the heritage in Coventry is showcased for all."
Jon Redhead, Kenilworth
"For a teacher the Herbert is a fantastic teaching resource, from the website which offers information and many pictures, to the gallery itself which has excellent "hands-on" exhibits for the children to experience."
Mrs. J. Parkins, Coventry
"I go with the children from our school on visits and every time we go we really enjoy ourselves! The staff are freindly and there is always something of interest going on."
Susan Nalus
"It is part of our heritage in Coventry and is evolving year by year. It provides access to historic underground chambers and is a source of education across the city, allowing the hosting of school events as well as, of course, being our very own art museum."
S. Jones
"It's been revamped, it’s friendly, it’s moving far away from the 1950's image of Coventry."
Stella Turner, Coventry
"This is an innovative local museum that reflects the history of Coventry but has a sharp eye on the future."
Anne-Marie McTavish
"It is innovative, hands-on and an attractive building in an interesting location with a good café!"
Richard Green
"The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is a wonderful creative landmark in the City of Coventry. It has a lot to offer to its diverse people, with varied interests and accommodates all ages and cultures. Coventry deserves more and we really want the Herbert to win so that all in Coventry and the region benefit from it."
Geeta Sarcar, Coventry
"To inherit a mixed collection and give it a synergy is a challenge which the Herbert has addressed extremely well. There are so many facets to the museum that it encourages repeat visits. The new architectural elements are pleasing and provide a positive link between it and the new cathedral opposite."
Dianne Page, Chadwick End
"It's a place for the people of Coventry and beyond that celebrates and embraces heritage and diversity."
Gill Holmes
"Innovative and frequently changing displays. Staff willing to provide access for people with disabilities e.g. for deaf and deaf-blind."
Adam Fielder
"Not just revamped but reinvented and rooted in the city, its history and culture."
Richard Tomlins, Coventry
"The Herbert Museum and Art Gallery since its redevelopment has quickly become a hub for the local community. The displays are attractive and accessible, a diverse range of events for all ages is offered and it’s free! The museum's exciting design has also helped to regenerate the whole cathedral quarter. I am a regular visitor and I love it."
Olwyn Ditchburn, Coventry
"A small gallery and museum, it has a homely feel and so people are not intimidated by having cavernous and innumerable rooms to go through. It is also very child-friendly, with school children being particularly welcome."
Rekha Narula, Coventry
"Excellent design for the conversion. Exhibitions for all tastes including an active programme for children. Good facilities including a spacious café."
Bob Clark, Coventry
"The new museum's contemporary style reflects the changing face of Coventry and gives meaning to the richness of the City's history."
Valerie Sale
"The new premises and Trust team are bringing a range of amenities to Coventry that are sorely needed, and all audiences of all ages are targeted."
James Smith
"The Herbert has been completely transformed over the last couple of years. It's a place that people in Coventry can be proud of – and the city needs that. The new extension is stunning and the whole feel of the place is really bright and welcoming. Even people who don't normally visit museums seem to feel at home there and there's a lot for families to do, but at the same time there's a real depth to the displays and you can go regularly and still find out more."
Alison Taylor
"Our learning team has been delivering excellent results all year. It would be amazing to win this prize. Recognition for all our work and the hard work of our regional partners."
Robin Johnson
"I was a small child when the Herbert opened and I have so many happy memories of visits with my parents, with my children and, more recently, with my grandchildren. Like a phoenix from the ashes of the Blitz, the Herbert, with its diverse collections, exhibitions and interactive displays, has educated and entertained generations of Coventry's children."
Julie Moran, Coventry
"It is a pleasant venue, full of interesting galleries reflecting local history and culture yet aware of the international, multicultural dimension of the city of Coventry. Staff go out of their way to encourage visits by ESOL learners, including asylum seekers, refugees and migrant workers, whose experience of the Herbert confirms the sense of a welcoming local community and an interesting culture."
Sarah Campbell, Leamington Spa
"It is a first class venue for all sorts of exhibitions and events, very centralised, modern and upmarket building which caters for the public and youth of today's society. It has excellent facilities for everyone to use whether as an artist or a viewing member of the public and includes a first rate cafeteria/restaurant and child facilities, which are so essential today."
Marilyn-Valentine, Coventry
"The Herbert Art Gallery is a great place; it's full of great things to do especially in the holidays. There is loads for the kids and it's fun, educational and informative. In the holidays workshops are run for children. They are brilliant and always well attended. It gives the kids something to do in the holidays and it's free! The staff are really enthusiastic and the exhibits are different with interactive activities for all ages. The Herbert Art Gallery really deserves this prize and with the money it could be improved even more."
Lucy
"It has recently had a very impressive extension built and has been generally refurbished. It has very good permanent exhibitions relating to the history and people of Coventry and also has constantly changing temporary and visiting exhibitions. It is very 'family-friendly' with attractions for all ages including a 'soft play' area for little ones and puts on special activities for children during all the school holidays. The café and shop are also excellent."
Margaret Owen, Hywel Owen and Julia Kelly
"The extension of The Herbert is a long overdue project in Coventry offering for the first time a quality environment for Art in the city centre. Coventry is often overlooked in favour of 'Bigger, better or bolder cities' and for once has an opportunity to showcase its great history in an accomplished new vibrant setting."
Kevin Keane
"It has transformed itself and how people feel about the city both those that live here and those that visit... it makes me feel proud of the city and has given my children hours upon hours of pleasure..."
Adam Stanton
"The Herbert has experienced a great improvement since the opening of its extension. It is not only an excellent museum and gallery with permanent and temporary exhibitions, but a multi-functional and well-designed building that contributes positively to Coventry's public realm. I always take whoever visits me there. And it has some hidden gems as well, such as the medieval cellar."
Katerina Frankova
"We are very lucky to have a museum like The Herbert Art Gallery which has provided us lots of free activities for children over holidays as well as guided tour for schools and various projects in association across the communities over different topics but most importantly it plays an important role of reminding the significance of Coventry history."
Agnes
"It furthers the cultural and historic knowledge and enjoyment of Coventry, which has many socially deprived groups."
Jennifer Lim
"Because it is an excellent museum, well-presented and informative especially the wartime Coventry Blitz section. However, it is badly in need of structural refurbishment and lacks the necessary funding to achieve the repairs. Without which, certain work and viewing areas are presently not viable." B. Swan, Coventry
"It is such a beautiful place to have in the community and it would be a tragedy if Coventry ever lost it."
Mrs. R. Brandist
"It's brilliant!"
Mark Byatt
"Herbert and its supporters have transformed both the gallery and museum and its contents to be really attractive to the people of Coventry. So worthwhile a visit. The theme of reconciliation and peace activities is prominent and must be unique in museums in Britain. Thank you."
David Fish, Lutterworth
"In recent years Herbert Art Gallery has been given a major facelift. This has opened up the gallery and made it a wonderful place to visit. The gallery is magnificent and always caters for a wide audience. It is a valuable asset to the people of Coventry and those travelling from afar to view its collections. I hope the gallery can maintain its magnificence for years to come. It is both a pleasure and delight to visit the gallery."
Abdul Salam Khan
