Coventry was the home of The Eclipse which was one of the best rave clubs in the country, if not the best. For that I will be eternally grateful.
As for days away, Swanage with a trip to Monkey world included is a good day trip.
I like Swanage, but I can never do it in anything under 2 hours, usually a bit more, and Chubbs specified 1-2 hours driving time. Swanage has also got the railway to Corfe Castle