It is run at Ascot over a distance of 6 furlongs (1,207 metres), and it is scheduled to take place each year in June.

The event was established in 1890, and it was named after the 9th Earl of Coventry, who served as the Master of the Buckhounds at that time.

The present system of race grading was introduced in 1971, and for a period the Coventry Stakes was classed at Group 3 level.

It is usually contested on the opening day of the Royal Ascot meeting.

[1] Leading jockey (9 wins): Leading trainer (10 wins): * The race was run at Newmarket during the wartime periods of 1915–18 and 1941–44.