MORE than 50,000 people have visited Coventry’s historic Charterhouse since The National Trust took on its day-to-day management a year ago.
It far exceeded the heritage and nature conservation charity’s original target of 18,000 visitors for the first year.
Restored and brought back to life by Historic Coventry Trust, which led the £11.9million funding and restoration project, the Charterhouse is now managed on site by the National Trust. The two organisations continue to work closely together to safeguard the building and widen access for communities across the city.
Kristenne Pickles, from the National Trust team at Coventry Charterhouse, said: “Opening the doors of Coventry Charterhouse this past year has been incredibly special. In the middle of a busy city, it has become a place where people can spend time outdoors, connect with Coventry’s history and enjoy a quieter side of the city. Seeing how many people have visited over the past year shows just how important the Charterhouse is for Coventry.”
Since opening, volunteers have played a vital role in the Charterhouse’s success, contributing more than 15,700 hours to support everything from welcoming visitors to caring for the gardens and sharing the site’s stories.
A key focus for the National Trust has been making the Charterhouse welcoming and accessible to local communities. Since taking on management of the site, more than 50 events and activities have been delivered with local organisations, artists, students and community groups across Coventry.
Working alongside Coventry City Council, the Charterhouse also now welcomes GoCV+ card holders, helping widen access for people who may face barriers to visiting. Since the partnership launched in February, more than 200 visitors have benefited from the scheme.
Niamh Carton, programming and partnerships manager at Coventry Charterhouse, said: “Working closely with communities across Coventry means we can shape projects and events that feel relevant and welcoming to local people.
“Welcoming GoCV+ card holders and partnering with local groups, students and families has helped us introduce the Charterhouse to people who may not have visited before.”
The first year has also seen a creative and community-focused programme, from Luke Jerram’s Helios installation to collaborations with Coventry University students and seasonal family activities.
Looking ahead, the National Trust will continue to build on its first year, with plans for more events like Pepperpot the Mole, a four-metre-high sculpture created by artist Bruce Asbestos. Visitors can see the sculpture in the walled garden and follow a family-friendly trail around the walled garden, discovering where Pepperpot has been popping up and learning more about moles and the natural world along the way.
