Old Fire Station, Coventry – From Edwardian Firehouse to Iconic Landmark

Located on Hales Street, just opposite Coventry’s Transport Museum and Millennium Place, the Old Fire Station stands as one of the city’s most distinctive Edwardian-era landmarks. What was once a hub of civic service has today transformed into a popular culinary and leisure destination, housing Sprinkles Gelato and the Sky Lounge.

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Historical Background

The Old Fire Station was constructed in 1902 during a time of rapid urban expansion in Coventry. It served as the city’s main fire brigade headquarters well into the 20th century. The station was designed in the Edwardian Baroque style, a form of architecture characterized by its bold brickwork, detailed stone ornamentation, and symmetrical layout.

This fire station not only played a critical role in the city’s emergency services but also stood as a proud civic building, reflecting Coventry’s growing importance during the industrial age. It continued to operate until 1976, after which the fire services were relocated, and the building fell into disuse for a time before being repurposed.

Old Fire Station, Coventry

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Architectural Features

What makes the Old Fire Station particularly captivating is its rich red-brick façade, interlaced with contrasting white stone bands, a common feature in Edwardian civic architecture. The arched entrances on the ground floor, once used for fire engine access, are now glass-fronted and serve as entryways to modern establishments.

Above, tall sash windows with stone mullions line the first floor, and the central bay is crowned with a decorative pediment that houses a clock. A distinctive square turret with louvered openings rises above the roofline, a feature typical of Edwardian fire stations, which often included lookouts or bell towers.

Another striking element is the ornamental stonework - keystones, pilasters, and cornices, all contributing to the building’s stately appearance. Despite the modern adaptations at ground level, much of the original façade has been well preserved.

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Current Usage: A New Lease of Life

Today, this historical structure houses two vibrant businesses:

• Sprinkles Gelato occupies the ground level, offering a wide range of desserts including gelato, waffles, and milkshakes. The contemporary interior contrasts beautifully with the vintage stone arches outside.

• Sky Lounge, located on the upper floor and rooftop, brings a lively night-time vibe with a rooftop bar and shisha lounge, providing visitors with panoramic views of Coventry’s city centre.

This adaptive reuse ensures the Old Fire Station remains a living part of Coventry’s architectural heritage while meeting the tastes of a modern audience.

Happy travelling.