Hiking in Warwickshire

Wandering in Warwickshire’s woodlands

Tocil Wood Nature Reserve is an ideal spot for woodland walks in Warwickshire thanks to its accessible nature, ancient trees and exquisite bluebell carpets in spring. Just south of Coventry, the forest dates back at least 400 years and likely far longer. A meadow, wetland and woodland can all be found here, including a wide variety of trees like oak, sycamore, ash and elder. 

Hartshill Hayes Country Park is another lovely place for a stroll and its hilly terrain means you get beautiful views of the surrounding counties for your effort. This vibrant woodland up in the very north of the county is alive with birdsong in spring and summer.

Some of the best hiking trails in Warwickshire’s woodlands will take you on a meandering exploration of the historic Ryton Wood. You’ll find plenty of criss-crossing paths here under ancient trees where the only thing to disturb the peace is birdsong. Ryton Wood is spectacular in spring when primrose, anemone and bluebells light up the forest floor. 

Riverside trails

Hikes in Warwickshire are rarely steep but they don’t get much flatter than the county’s stunning canal and river walks. There are several canals that pass through Warwickshire and many trails that will lead you past impressive locks and sedate waters. 

Lapworth in the south is the kind of rural area that will steal your heart and give you one of the most blissful days of walking you could imagine. The Grand Union and Stratford Canals both meet here at the Kingswood Junction and you can idle along canal paths for hours. While you’re in the area, stop by the historic Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House properties. They’re both set in beautiful grounds with plenty of walking trails. 

The River Avon passes through Stratford and you can follow it west with ease. The county is blessed with many rivers and you’ll find gentle paths alongside, particularly between Leamington Spa and Warwick.

Strolling through history

Warwickshire has history coming out of its ears and you don’t need to frequent museums to see it (although there are lots of great ones). Charlecote Park is a vast 16th century house set into pretty grounds with easy trails. It’s home to a deer park where these graceful creatures live happily in full view of visitors. 

The Norman Kenilworth Castle has imposing ruins while Lunt Roman Fort has been excavated and rebuilt. The 11th century Warwick Castle is another phenomenal insight into the history of the area and you can follow trails south along the river through its peaceful woodlands.