Attractions and Places To See around North Warwickshire - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around North Warwickshire include historical sites, natural parks, and cultural points of interest. This region features a landscape shaped by rivers, wetlands, and woodlands, offering diverse habitats and scenic views. Visitors can explore ancient abbeys, Roman heritage, and country parks with lakes. The area provides a blend of historical significance and natural beauty for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around North Warwickshire
- The most popular attractions is Maxstoke Priory Ruins, a historical site located in a hamlet built on the old priory grounds. It is considered one of the most picturesque highlights along the North Warwickshire Cycleway.
- Another must-see spot is RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve, a forest and wetland area. This nature reserve in the River Tame Valley offers paths to explore wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, providing habitats for various bird species and wildlife.
- Visitors also love Shustoke Reservoir, a lake completed in 1884 to supply water to Birmingham. Today, it supplies Nuneaton and surrounding areas, with water gravity-fed by the nearby River Bourne.
- North Warwickshire is known for its historical landmarks, natural parks, and cultural sites. The region offers a variety of attractions, from ancient religious buildings to extensive nature reserves and family-friendly points of interest.
- The attractions around North Warwickshire are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 85 upvotes and 13 photos shared across 59 highlights.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Maxstoke Priory Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland
Highlight • Natural Monument
It was led by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and Warwickshire County Council, working together in partnership as part of a series of landscape improvement projects being delivered through the Heritage Lottery Funded Tame Valley Wetlands Landscape Partnership Scheme.
The 6 hectare wetland has been transformed from disused waterlogged football pitches and restored to its original function as the floodplain of the River Tame. It now consists of new water channels, scrapes, ditches and reedbed, helping to restore floodplain connectivity.
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Shustoke Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Echills Wood Railway
Highlight • Structure
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Curdworth Locks
Highlight • Rest Area
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St Mary and All Saints Church, Fillongley
Highlight • Historical Site
Church. C12 chancel now mainly C15, C14 nave, C15 north chapel and C13 west tower with C15 bell stage. Coursed sandstone rubble; coursed and squared sandstone. Plain-tiled roofs with crocketed pinnacles to east gable of nave and gable end cross. Embattled west tower of 3 stages. 2 lower stages are C13. One lancet window to each stage of side wall. C15 west doorway in 4-centred arch in square head. Angle buttressing. Bell stage, C15,has in each wall two 2-light openings with foiled heads in 2-centred arches. Nave has embattled parapet. C15 clerestory of 5 windows, each of two cinquefoil lights in square head. 3, C14, windows; 2 of 3 trefoil lights in 2-centred arches of 2 chamfered orders, and one of 2 trefoil lights. 2 stage gable buttressing. Chancel: South wall has 2 windows, each of 3 lights and a C15 doorway in 4-centred arch in square head.
East window of 3 trefoil lights in moulded 2-centred arch. North chapel: C15.
Embattled parapet. 2 windows in north wall of 3 trefoil lights in 4-centred arches. 2 stage buttressing with offsets. Interior: South doorway to nave, C14.
2 hollow and roll moulded orders in 2-centred arch with label and mask stops.
C13 tower arch of 3 chamfered orders in 2-centred arch. Original gable end of roof visible in west wall of tower. C19 roof boarded. Braced tie beams. Chancel arch 2-centred and of 2 wave moulded orders. The chancel has a C19 roof of wind braced through purlins. North chapel C15. 2 bays open to chancel. 2-centred arches of 2 hollow moulded orders on octagonal column with moulded capital and base. Original roof with moulded ridge tie beams and purlins. Carved bosses at intersections. Font, C15. Stone. Round bowl with vertical ribs dividing the panels. Wall monument, north wall of chancel. Mrs. Daniel and daughter, 1725.
White marble tablet with grey marble fluted ionic pilasters and crest. Chest.
Oak. 1729. Oak with iron fittings. Gift of Geo. Aley of Black Hall, Fillongley.
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Kingsbury Water Park Visitor Centre
Highlight • Natural
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Kingsbury Meadow Local Nature Reserve
Highlight • River
Explore the different habitats here from marshy and wet grassland and swamp to woodland and an important sedge bed of waist-high reeds. It's best to stick to the path and you will be surrounded by the wildflowers and grasses.
The brook runs through the middle of the reserve with a footbridge at one end and stepping stones at the other. After heavy rain the stepping stones may be submerged but in drier spells you can do a circular walk round the reserve. There are three live willow structures to admire and two signs showing you a map of the site and the species you might see here.
It's an old flood meadow and while it doesn't flood anymore it can get boggy so remember to wear appropriate footwear.
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Church of St Peter and St Paul, Kingsbury
Highlight • Religious Site
The church was built around the year 1200, when the church was built and until the 19th century the village was just a small hamlet, it was surrounded by land once owned by Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel.
The stones of the church porch show evidence of arrow-sharpening grooves, sometimes said to have been done by soldiers but more probably by hunting parties or locals waiting their turn for the nearby village butts, as all males had to be proficient with a longbow.
The churchyard contains the war grave of a Royal Engineers soldier of World War II.
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RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve
Highlight • Forest
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Popular around North Warwickshire
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The church in Kingsbury was dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul, also known as the "Prince of the Apostles." Their common feast day in the calendar of saints is June 29th for all major denominations. * Simon, nicknamed Peter (Rock), was a fisherman on the Sea of Galilee when he, along with his brother Andrew, was called by Jesus Christ to be a "fisher of men." In works of art, Peter is almost always depicted holding two keys; this attribute refers to the biblical passage in Matthew: "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Chapter 16, Verse 19) * Paul was initially an opponent of the Christian movement and, unlike the other apostles, was not called to the apostleship by Jesus Christ during his lifetime. Instead, he was converted later through the famous "Damascus Experience." His attribute is the sword with which he was executed. Such a sentence was a "privilege" under Roman law at the time (a quick death, not a long, painful agony like other forms of execution) reserved for the citizens of Rome.
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Rivers and canals crisscross the country, as they were a crucial part of the transport infrastructure – especially in the early days of industrialization. Factories needed the delivery of raw materials in previously unknown quantities, and finished goods also had to find their way to traders. Many of the canals originated in this era. Later, rail and, even later, trucks took over the task of transporting goods. When building the artificial waterways, however, it was important to consider that differences in elevation always had to be overcome, and so locks are often located along the canals – at varying intervals, depending on the local situation. Only with their help was shipping possible.
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A nice quiet spot, it was the dead centre of my walk
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An RSPB nature reserve in the Tame Valley. Mainly focused on wetland birds but there is also meadow, woodland and farmland areas. Can get muddy and wet so appropriate footwear is important.
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Open every Sunday except the 4 Sunday of January.... Guess which day I went
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Interesting place helpful guy on the desk
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in North Warwickshire?
North Warwickshire offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve, a haven for wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, perfect for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Another great spot is Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland, which has been restored to its original floodplain function with new water channels and reedbeds. Don't miss Kingsbury Water Park, featuring fifteen lakes and 600 acres of country park, or Hartshill Hayes Country Park, known for its magnificent views and springtime bluebells.
Are there historical sites to visit in North Warwickshire?
Yes, the region is rich in history. Explore the ancient Maxstoke Priory Ruins, a picturesque highlight along the North Warwickshire Cycleway. You can also visit Polesworth Abbey, dating from the early 12th century, or the Roman Mancetter and Boudica Heritage Centre, which tells the story of Mancetter's strategic importance and Queen Boudica's last battle. Historic churches like St Mary and All Saints Church in Fillongley and the Church of St Peter and St Paul in Kingsbury also offer insights into the past.
What family-friendly activities are available in North Warwickshire?
Families will find plenty to do! Kingsbury Water Park is a premier waterside attraction with pathways, wildlife, and water-based activities. At Echills Wood Railway, located within Kingsbury Water Park, you can enjoy a miniature railway ride. Hoar Park Shopping & Craft Village offers shops and a children's farm. While just outside the border, Twycross Zoo is also a popular choice for families, known for its extensive collection of monkeys and apes.
Where can I go for a walk or hike in North Warwickshire?
North Warwickshire offers numerous walking opportunities. You can explore the paths at RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve or enjoy the tranquil Kingsbury Meadow Local Nature Reserve. For more structured routes, consider the hiking trails around the region, such as the 'ACW Circular Walk 17: Two Castles and a Manor' or 'Bluebell Woodland – View of Mancetter Quarry loop from Hartshill CP'. Find more options on the Hiking around North Warwickshire guide.
Are there cycling routes near the attractions?
Absolutely! The North Warwickshire Cycleway passes by picturesque spots like Maxstoke Priory Ruins. You can also find various cycling routes, including easy loops like 'Kingsbury Water Park Lake – River Tame Crossing loop from Bodymoor Heath' or more challenging rides. Discover more detailed routes on the Cycling around North Warwickshire guide.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions in North Warwickshire?
Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting the Roman Mancetter and Boudica Heritage Centre for a unique historical perspective. Astley Book Farm is a notable spot for book lovers, offering an unusual and charming experience. The Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland, with its restored floodplain and wildlife, also offers a peaceful escape off the beaten path.
Can I find places for wildlife spotting in North Warwickshire?
Yes, North Warwickshire is excellent for wildlife spotting. RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve is a prime location, with diverse habitats supporting various bird species, otters, and dragonflies. Kingsbury Water Park and Pooley Country Park also provide rich environments for observing local wildlife, including birds and other small animals.
Are there any attractions with water features or lakes?
Definitely. Shustoke Reservoir is a significant lake that supplies water to the area and is a pleasant spot for a stroll. Kingsbury Water Park boasts fifteen lakes, offering numerous waterside activities and views. Pooley Country Park also features pools formed from mining subsidence, adding to the region's aquatic landscapes.
What is the best time of year to visit North Warwickshire attractions?
North Warwickshire offers attractions year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful, especially at Hartshill Hayes Country Park, which is known for its stunning bluebell displays. RSPB Middleton Lakes Nature Reserve provides displays of nature throughout the year, making it a good option in any season. For outdoor activities, late spring to early autumn generally offers the most pleasant weather.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions?
Yes, the Kingsbury Water Park Visitor Centre is noted as wheelchair accessible, providing facilities and access to parts of the park. While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, many country parks and nature reserves offer some accessible pathways, though it's always advisable to check individual site information for specific needs.
Where can I find information about the region's literary heritage?
North Warwickshire has strong literary connections, particularly to Victorian novelist George Eliot, who was born in Nuneaton. The Nuneaton Museum & Art Gallery features a gallery dedicated to her life and works. The region was also central to the 16th-century Polesworth Circle of writers, including Ben Jonson. Many local sites inspired Eliot's novels, offering a glimpse into her world.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in North Warwickshire besides hiking and cycling?
Beyond hiking and cycling, you can enjoy gravel biking on routes like 'Hicks Lodge Trail Centre – Donisthorpe Woodland Park loop'. Many of the lakes and reservoirs, such as Kingsbury Water Park, offer opportunities for water-based activities. Wildlife observation is also a popular pastime, especially at nature reserves like RSPB Middleton Lakes.
Most popular routes around North Warwickshire
Most popular attractions around North Warwickshire
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