The best walks and hikes around North Warwickshire

Yes, there are nearly 200 hiking routes to explore across North Warwickshire. The trails range from easy strolls along canal towpaths to more challenging long-distance paths, offering plenty of options for all fitness levels.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of landscapes, from the quiet ancient woodlands and serene canal paths to the well-maintained country parks.

North Warwickshire has many excellent circular walks. For a shorter loop that explores the area's industrial and natural heritage, the ACW Circular Walk 18A: Three Corleys Short Route is a great option. It offers a varied experience through the rolling countryside.

Many trails in North Warwickshire are suitable for walking with a dog, especially in open spaces like country parks. However, always be mindful of local signage, particularly in nature reserves or areas with livestock. It's recommended to keep dogs on a lead where required.

For a gentle and accessible walk perfect for families, consider the Causeway Pool – Lake Club Park Model Boat Pool loop from Bodymoor Heath. This easy trail around the lakes at Kingsbury Water Park has flat, surfaced paths suitable for all ages and abilities.

For panoramic views, Hartshill Hayes Country Park is an excellent choice. Its hillside position offers spectacular vistas across the Anker Valley. The View of Mancetter Quarry – Hartshill Castle loop from Hartshill CP takes you through the park and provides some of the best viewpoints in the area.

Yes, North Warwickshire is crossed by several long-distance footpaths. The Centenary Way, a 100-mile trail, starts at Kingsbury Water Park. The Heart of England Way also passes through the region, offering a more immersive experience of the English countryside.

The terrain is generally gentle and rolling. You can expect a mix of scenery, including paths through ancient woodlands reminiscent of the Forest of Arden, level towpaths along canals like the Coventry and Ashby Canals, and trails through reclaimed wetlands in the Tame Valley.

Spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as many woodlands, such as those in Hartshill Hayes Country Park, are covered in bluebells. However, the well-maintained paths in the country parks and along the canals make for pleasant walking year-round.

Kingsbury Water Park offers a network of trails around its many lakes. A popular choice is the Willow Pool – Bodymoor Heath Lake loop from Kingsbury CP, an easy and flat route that is great for bird-watching and enjoying the waterside scenery.

Several parks and reserves are local favorites for hiking. Hartshill Hayes Country Park is highly regarded for its woodland trails and panoramic views. For lakeside walks, Kingsbury Water Park is a major destination. Quieter, well-loved options for woodland walks include Crackley Woods Nature Reserve and Hay Wood.

Yes, you can start several hikes from Atherstone. A good moderate option is the Bluebell Woodland – View of Mancetter Quarry loop from Atherstone, which takes you towards the woodlands and quarries near Hartshill, offering a varied walk of about 8.6 miles (14 km).