Attractions and Places To See around Arley CP - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Arley CP include a mix of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The region features significant waterways like the River Severn and canal junctions, alongside historic arboretums and nature reserves. Visitors can explore sites connected to England's canal network and memorials with historical significance. The landscape offers diverse points of interest, from ancient ruins to restored wetlands.
Best attractions and places to see around Arley CP
- The most popular attractions is Maxstoke Priory Ruins, a historical site that is a picturesque highlight along the North Warwickshire Cycleway. These ruins offer a glimpse into the area's past.
- Another must-see spot is National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden, a man-made monument. This obelisk honors cyclists killed during World War I and World War II, with an annual remembrance service held each May.
- Visitors also love Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop), a historical site where the Oxford Canal meets the Coventry Canal. This junction was important for England's canal network for around 200 years.
- Arley CP is known for historical sites, natural monuments, and significant waterways. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to canal networks and restored wetlands.
- The attractions around Arley CP are appreciated by the komoot community, with 131 upvotes and 33 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: September 26, 2026
National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden
Highlight • Monument
In 1914, cycling was incredibly popular in the UK. During the war, the British army included a Cyclist Corps which employed bicycle-riding messengers, coastal lookouts and scouts. The two-wheeled troops often found themselves behind enemy lines. One division advertised for recruits with the slogan: “Are you fond of cycling, if so why not cycle for the King.” (It generously added, “bad teeth no bar.”)
While the majority of these specialist troops were actually converted to conventional infantry and sent to the gridlocked trenches of France, bicycle troops were used by the British all through the war. When the fighting was over, in 1918, members of cycling clubs realized how many people had not returned. A monument was built to honor all the cyclists who were killed in battle.
The 32-ton, Cornish Granite-faced obelisk was installed using donations from cyclists all over the country, and Meriden was chosen for its location at the center of the country. The future king Edward VIII (then Prince of Wales) even auctioned his own bicycle to contribute to the fund. It was unveiled on May 21, 1921 with a ceremony attended by over 20,000 people. An annual service of remembrance is held each May, which hundreds of cyclists pedal their way to Meriden to take part in.
Bicycles were also used in World War II by hundreds of paratroopers who were given a special folding bike, and commandos, during the second wave after D-day. In 1963, a bronze plaque was added to commemorate the fallen cyclists from the Second World War.
Citation atlasobscura.com/places/national-cyclists-memorial
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Maxstoke Priory Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
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Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop)
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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Tips from the Community
beautiful place to ride by, especially at sunrise or sunset. the greyhound pub is on the junction for a half time stop as well. can either head to Bedworth/nuneaton, back into Coventry Central or round to Longford.
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Imposing monument, set in a charming village green with benches. Shops nearby.
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Maxstoke Hill Challenge The Maxstoke Hill Challenge is a cycling time trial measured from the bottom of Maxstoke Hill (where the road does a 90-degree turn) to the very top of the hill (past the water works – first lay by on the left). The long-standing record held by Mr N Wiggin was beaten by Mr J House on his return to the United Kingdom in April 2012. The record now stands at 4 minutes 37 seconds. From Wikipedia
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The old priory was established in 1331 it was expanded several times over the next 100 or so years and then disbanded in 1536. Since then the buildings have fallen into ruin except what was once the inner gate house and is now a B&B. The village church is the same age as the priory.
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Shustoke Reservoir is managed by Severn Trent. The reservoir was completed in 1884 to provide water for Birmingham. Nowerdays the reservoir supplies Nuneaton and the surrounding area.
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Hawkesbury Junction is a major waterways place at the junction of the Coventry Canal (Main Line - Coventry to Hawkesbury) with the Coventry Canal (Main Line - Hawkesbury to Fazeley) and the Oxford Canal (Northern Section - Main Line). Coventry Basin (Canal Terminus) is on the Coventry Canal (Main Line - Coventry to Hawkesbury), 5 miles and 4 furlongs to the southwest. Hawkesbury Engine House is on the Coventry Canal (Main Line - Hawkesbury to Fazeley), ½ furlongs to the northeast. Sutton Stop is on the Oxford Canal (Northern Section - Main Line), ½ furlongs to the east. It is the centre of Hawkesbury Junction. The nearest place in the direction of Coventry Basin is Hawkesbury Services; ¼ furlongs away. The nearest place in the direction of Hawkesbury Engine House is Hawkesbury Junction Gauging Stop; ¼ furlongs away. The nearest place in the direction of Sutton Stop is Hawkesbury Junction Bridge; a few yards away.
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Sutton Stop is a major waterways place on the Oxford Canal (Northern Section - Main Line) between Wyken Arm Junction (Old Colliery Branch) (1 mile and 3½ furlongs to the southeast) and Hawkesbury Junction (Junction of the Coventry Canal Main Line with the Oxford Canal Northern Section.) (½ furlongs to the west) It is part of Hawkesbury Junction. The nearest place in the direction of Wyken Arm Junction is Sutton Stop Changeline Bridge; a few yards away. The nearest place in the direction of Hawkesbury Junction is The Greyhound Inn; ¼ furlongs away.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of attractions can I find around Arley CP?
The area around Arley CP, particularly in Worcestershire and Warwickshire, offers a mix of historical landmarks, significant waterways, and natural features. You can explore sites like the Maxstoke Priory Ruins, important canal junctions, and memorials. Natural attractions include reservoirs and wetlands, providing diverse points of interest for visitors.
What historical sites can I explore near Arley CP?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the Maxstoke Priory Ruins, a picturesque highlight along the North Warwickshire Cycleway. Another significant site is the National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden, an obelisk honoring cyclists from both World Wars. The Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop) is also a historical landmark, marking where the Oxford Canal meets the Coventry Canal, crucial for England's canal network for centuries.
Are there natural attractions or features to visit around Arley CP?
Yes, the area boasts several natural points of interest. You can explore the Shustoke Reservoir, which offers hiking trails around its perimeter. The Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland is a restored floodplain rich in wildlife, featuring new water channels, reedbeds, and viewing platforms. The River Severn and its banks are also significant natural features in the Worcestershire area.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in the Arley CP area?
Many attractions around Arley CP are suitable for families. The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden, Hawkesbury Canal Junction, Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland, and Shustoke Reservoir are all categorized as family-friendly. The Tame Valley Wetlands, for instance, has pond-dipping platforms and willow sculptures, making it engaging for children.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near these attractions?
The region offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'ACW Circular Walk 17: Two Castles and a Manor' or the 'Astley Castle loop'. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy trails such as the 'Shustoke Reservoir – Maxstoke Priory Ruins loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Arley CP and Cycling around Arley CP guides.
Are there specific walking trails or routes I can take around Arley CP attractions?
Yes, there are various walking trails. For example, you can enjoy a moderate hike on the 'ACW Circular Walk 17: Two Castles and a Manor' or an easy loop around Shustoke Reservoir. The Maxstoke Priory Ruins are also part of the North Warwickshire Cycleway, which includes walking sections. For more options, refer to the Hiking around Arley CP guide.
What is the Arley Arboretum and what can I see there?
Arley Arboretum, located in Worcestershire, is a historic arboretum established in 1800. It features rare trees, exquisite walled gardens including a Magnolia Garden and an Italian Garden, and peacocks roaming the grounds. Arley House is also part of the estate. It's considered one of the oldest and best arboreta in the country. You can find more information at visitworcestershire.org.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering an inclusive option for visitors. When planning your visit to other sites, it's advisable to check specific accessibility details for each location.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Arley CP?
Visitors frequently appreciate the historical significance of sites like the Hawkesbury Canal Junction, often enjoying a refreshment at the canalside Greyhound Inn. The Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland is praised for its natural beauty and family-friendly features like pond-dipping. The National Cyclists' Memorial is valued for its historical importance and peaceful green setting.
Are there places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, for example, near the Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop), you'll find the Greyhound Inn, a traditional canalside pub known for pub meals. The area around the National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden also has shops where you can grab a snack.
What is the best time to visit Arley CP and its attractions?
While specific seasonal highlights vary by attraction, spring and summer generally offer pleasant weather for exploring the arboretum, walking trails, and natural features. The National Cyclists' Memorial holds an annual remembrance service each May, which might be a significant time to visit for those interested in its history.
Can I bring my dog to the attractions around Arley CP?
Many outdoor areas and walking trails in the region are dog-friendly, such as those around Shustoke Reservoir and Arley Wood. However, it's always best to check specific regulations for individual attractions like Arley Arboretum regarding dog access, especially in indoor areas or formal gardens.
Most popular attractions around Arley CP
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