A Coventry Way Circular Walk 8A
A Coventry Way Circular Walk 8A
4.2
(13)
61
hikers
A Coventry Way Circular Walk 8A
01:48
6.98km
30m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike through the picturesque Warwickshire countryside with A Coventry Way Circular Walk 8A. This route spans 4.3 miles (7.0 km) and involves a gentle ascent of 111 feet (34 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outing. You can expect to complete the journey in about 1 hour and 47 minutes. As you follow the off-road paths, you will wander through agricultural fields, alongside hedgerows, and into peaceful woodlands such as Wappenbury Woods. The trail offers a charming blend of rural scenery, complete with stiles and footbridges, providing a true taste of the local landscape.
Planning your visit to this circular walk is straightforward. You will find parking generally available at Ryton Pools Country Park, which serves as a convenient starting point. The route is largely off-road, making it an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the countryside around Coventry. For your comfort, refreshments and other facilities are readily available at the Ryton Pools Country Park Visitor Centre.
This particular segment of the Coventry Way offers a wonderful introduction to the region's natural beauty. It highlights the characteristic blend of agricultural land and ancient woodlands that define this part of Warwickshire. The trail's design ensures an accessible experience, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the rural setting without encountering significant challenges. It's an ideal choice if you are seeking a gentle escape into nature, showcasing the area's quiet charm.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
77 m
Ryton Pools Country Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
598 m
Sand Martin Nesting Wall, Ryton Pools Country Park
Highlight • Natural
As well as providing a large and safe nesting habitat, the 15m long structure also has a number of pre-formed swallow nest sites and a rear door inspection hatch so that the rangers can keep an eye on the nesting progress and carry out any necessary maintenance. To prevent predation by other wildlife such as stoats, an anti-predator baffle has been installed below the tunnels which have been constructed of plastic pipes. We also helped create the new information board which has been installed opposite the nesting wall to inform the local visitors to the country park about the new nesting site. It’s hoped that grizzled skipper butterflies will also benefit from the new structure as one of the food plants of the larvae stage – strawberries – are to be planted on the aggregate roof in the near future!
Sand Martins are gregarious and therefore tend to nest in large colonies. They are Europe’s smallest hirundine (martins and swallows) and the insectivorous birds are summer visitors to the UK, over-wintering in Africa.
Tip by
1.48 km
Wappenbury Woods
Highlight • Historical Site
Mentioned in the Domesday Book, records show that Richard of Wappenbury was given modest rights over the woods. By the end of the 15th Century, the wood was known by its present name and provided a source of fuel, building materials and hunting opportunities for the local community. Medieval ridge and furrow plough markings found to the north of the woods, ancient bank boundaries, and the age-old pathway known as Nunwood Lane all provide further evidence of the woods’ age. Nearly clear-felled twice in the 1940s and 1950s, the wood was left to regenerate naturally, helping to increase diversity and contributing to its ecological excellence today.
Tip by
4.23 km
Old New Wood
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
6.98 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.02 km
2.84 km
1.01 km
101 m
Surfaces
3.87 km
2.47 km
522 m
101 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Saturday 9 May
14°C
6°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for this walk?
The most convenient parking is at Ryton Pools Country Park, which serves as a great starting point for this circular walk. The park has a visitor centre and facilities.
Are there public transport options to reach the trailhead?
While the trail is largely off-road, several villages along the broader 'A Coventry Way' route are served by local bus routes. For the specific starting point at Ryton Pools Country Park, checking local bus services to Ryton-on-Dunsmore would be advisable, followed by a short walk to the park entrance.
Is this trail dog-friendly?
Yes, this walk is generally dog-friendly. However, as it traverses agricultural land and passes through villages, dogs should be kept on a lead, especially near livestock, in sensitive wildlife areas, and when passing through residential areas. Always remember to clean up after your dog.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, but paths can be busy. Winter walks are peaceful, but some sections might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is essential.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required for this walk?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the 'A Coventry Way Circular Walk 8A' itself, as it primarily uses public rights of way. However, Ryton Pools Country Park, a common starting point, may have parking charges.
What is the terrain like on this route?
The terrain is varied, typical of the Warwickshire countryside. You'll encounter off-road paths, agricultural fields (which can be muddy after rain), field edges, and sections through woods like Wappenbury Woods and Old New Wood. Expect to cross stiles and footbridges, and walk on some quiet lanes.
What can I see along the route?
This walk offers a blend of natural beauty and village charm. You'll pass through picturesque villages, experience the Warwickshire countryside, and encounter highlights such as Ryton Pools Country Park, the Sand Martin Nesting Wall within the park, Wappenbury Woods, and Old New Wood.
Are there places to get refreshments or use toilets along the way?
Yes, the route passes through or near several villages that offer facilities. You can find refreshments and toilets at the visitor centre in Ryton Pools Country Park. Additionally, villages like Princethorpe, Stretton-on-Dunsmore, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, and Bubbenhall have pubs and cafes, such as The Three Horseshoes in Princethorpe and The Oak in Stretton-on-Dunsmore.
Does this trail intersect other well-known paths?
Yes, this route is part of the larger 'A Coventry Way' network. Specifically, this Komoot tour covers sections of the official 'ACW Circular Walk 08A (short-cut for C08)' and also briefly touches upon 'Ryton Pools Country Park mountain bike route', 'ACW Circular Walk 08', 'Nunwood Lane', and 'Nutwood Lane'.
Is this walk suitable for beginners or families with children?
Komoot rates this specific tour as 'easy', making it suitable for beginners and families. While it involves some off-road sections and occasional stiles, its relatively short distance and minimal elevation gain mean it's accessible for those with a reasonable level of fitness. The varied scenery and village stops can make it an engaging walk for children.
What should I bring for this hike?
Given the varied terrain, sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended, especially after rain. Bring water, snacks, and appropriate clothing for the weather. A map or GPS device is useful for navigation, and don't forget your camera to capture the scenic countryside and village charm.