250-year-old canal side Coventry pub closes...

Management from the Longford Engine moved on in June



A canal side Coventry pub dating back to the 1700s has closed. Management from the Longford Engine moved on, closing doors to punters, at the end of June.

It would appear the owners are trying to find new landlords, with a sign on the pub advertising the lease. Because of its location, the venue is known for its canal views and popularity with matchday drinkers, usually welcoming away fans when Coventry City play at home.

Management shared a brief statement on its social media channels on June 29. It read: "Sad news but we are now closed until further notice."

A local who drinks in the pub told CoventryLive: "It's been shut a few weeks. I think the people running it were struggling to make it work - they hadn't been there that long. I've got no idea when it'll reopen."

According to website Love Your Pub, Bedworth Road venue was last on the market back in 2023. At the time it was described as a "brilliant community pub uniquely located on the canal side in Longford".

It went on: "The Longford Engine is a fantastic pub which is popular for its traditional pub food, sports, games and entertainment. With the pub's unique position on the canal this is a great opportunity for a publican who wants to both develop a community pub and a food business."

According to CoventryPubHistory.co.uk, the venue dates back to at least 1772 - but could be earlier. It was initially known as the Fire Engine, which over time changed to Engine Inn, then Old Engine Inn. It became the Canal Boat for a few years, but it had been known locally as the Engine for so long many ignored the new moniker.

It eventually became the Longford Engine in 2008 and has stayed with that name ever since.