Main content
This programme is not currently available on BBC iPlayer

Coventry Cathedral: Building for a New Britain

The story of Coventry’s new cathedral and of the times in which it was built. Designed by Basil Spence and consecrated in 1962, the original was destroyed by German bombers during World War II.

In November 1940, German bombers destroyed much of the city centre of Coventry and reduced the city’s medieval cathedral to rubble. Just 22 years later, in May 1962, a new cathedral designed by Basil Spence was consecrated on the site. Built in a bold modern style, incorporating the ruins of the old cathedral and adorned with a wealth of modern artworks, Coventry Cathedral is recognised today as one of Britain ‘s greatest postwar buildings.

Using a wealth of rarely seen archive film, together with voices from yesterday and today, the film tells the story of the new cathedral and of the times in which it was created.

1 hour, 14 minutes

Last on

Sun 29 May 2022 22:05
BBC Four

Clip

Music Played

Timings (where shown) are from the start of the programme in hours and minutes

  • 00:55

    John Leyton

    Johnny Remember Me

  • 01:14

    The Shadows

    Wonderful Land

Credits

Narrator Pauline Black
Editor Todd Macdonald
Director John Wyver

Broadcasts

Featured in...