I live in Coventry, an overlooked UK city that actually has a lot to offer - it's better than what you might assume

Coventry is often overlooked due to its close proximity to Birmingham. It is also sometimes overshowed by the scenic town of Warwick. And while both of these locations are great places to live in themselves, I don’t think they dim Coventry’s shine.

The city actually has a lot to offer and I’ve loved living here. I am born and raised in Coventry, and while some may hate where they have grown up, I love it.

It’s the perfect city because you have a mix of party life and a chilled, wholesome vibe. In the city centre there are lots of restaurants and bars from Turtle Bay, to Slug and Lettuce to the famous Kasbah club. Kasbah holds many events there, and it was part of my university lifestyle going there (as I went to Warwick University).

Not only is the town brimming with places to go but there is also Earlsdon which has its own share of great pubs from the likes of the City Arms to the Royal Oak. Craven Street on its own is a great road dotted with pubs - and is great for an evening out. Finish it off at the Four Provinces Irish pub, and you’ve got yourself a great night out.

Aside from the nightlife, the city also boasts parks and walks. It is greener than most UK cities. You have War Memorial Park, Allesley Park and Coombe Abbey which are lovely places to have a stroll mid-week or at the weekend.

There’s a lot of family-friendly fun to be had. You can visit The Wave (one of the UK's best indoor waterparks with huge slides), Coombe Abbey Park (go ape zip wires, lakeside walks), and the free Coventry Music Museum.

The city also has a creative and indie scene with FarGo Village. Its a quirky shipping-container creative quarter in the heart of the city with street art, vegan eateries, craft beer, vintage shops, and live music. Not only this but there is the Belgrade Theatre (which features West End tours and local productions), HMV Empire, and Warwick Arts Centre for gigs and comedy.

There are world-beating free museums from Coventry Transport Museum (largest collection of British cars/bikes anywhere), Herbert Art Gallery & Museum (local history, art, interactive exhibits), to the brilliant 2-Tone Village (celebrating ska legends The Specials and more). And what is most often overlooked is the location of the city.

You are 20 mins to Birmingham, 30 mins to Stratford-upon-Avon or Warwick Castle, and one hour to the Cotswolds. You are not far from a great day out living in Coventry. It also has great transport access with many train stations including Coventry, Tile Hill, and Canley. It is only an hour on the fast train down to London. So the links to other major cities are great.

Coventry is often overlooked, but it shouldn’t be. It is a city brimming with life, things to do, and in a great location - oh, and a great football club (sorry, not sorry!). You won’t be disappointed by a visit to the Coventry Building Society Arena (Ricoh) to watch the Sky Blues and a stop-off at Dhillon’s Brewery beforehand - I promise!