hmv Empire

About this venue

hmv Empire is a standout concert venue built for atmosphere: a flexible, city-centre room that scales from club nights to headline shows without losing that “close-to-the-stage” feel. With a maximum capacity of up to 1,200 guests (layout dependent), it sits in the sweet spot between intimate energy and full production impact.

Inside, the experience is all about pace and punch — a well-positioned stage, solid sound and lighting, and a layout designed for clean sightlines and smooth crowd movement. Depending on the event, the room can be configured as a standing floor or a seated setup, with bars and supporting areas that keep everything comfortable before, during, and after the main set.

22 Hertford St, Coventry, United Kingdom — the entrance sits directly beside the Barracks multi-storey car park, making arrivals by car refreshingly straightforward, with the doors just steps from parking. If you’re approaching on foot, head for Hertford Street and follow the flow towards the front doors; for broader city travel and transport tips, see the guide further down the page.

About the city

Coventry, in the heart of England’s West Midlands, is an increasingly popular choice for fans traveling to major sports fixtures and headline concerts. The city blends the buzz of a university hub with a recognizable event culture, making it just as appealing for a day trip as for a weekend break. With a varied selection of bars, restaurants, and central attractions, it’s easy to build a plan that combines great nightlife with smooth logistics. What visitors often appreciate is how quickly you can get your bearings—so you spend more time enjoying the experience and less time figuring out directions.

When it comes to getting in and getting around, Coventry relies on a clear set of connections that make reaching key arenas and stadiums straightforward. Local buses run by National Express Coventry and the main hub at Pool Meadow Bus Station keep neighborhoods linked to the city center, while Coventry railway station is the primary gateway for rail arrivals. If you’re flying, the most convenient option is Birmingham Airport (BHX), with an easy transfer via Birmingham International for a quick connection into the city. Driving is simple too, thanks to nearby major routes like the M6 and A45, and once you’re in town the short distances make the rest of the journey effortless.

Since you’re already coming for an event, it’s worth adding a touch of sightseeing. Walk through the Cathedral Quarter to soak up the atmosphere of the historic core, then pause in Broadgate by the legendary Lady Godiva motif that has become a city symbol. For urban stories and engineering heritage, many visitors head to the Coventry Transport Museum, while a more relaxed vibe awaits at FarGo Village and along the Coventry Canal. To unwind before or after the show, War Memorial Park offers a calmer pace and plenty of space to round out the day without rushing.