Warwickshire Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, local customs, safety tips, and logistics to make the most out of your Warwickshire trip.


Introduction to Warwickshire

Warwickshire is a western county in England and a landlocked county with diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the scenic waterways of the Warwickshire Avon and the industrial towns of the West Midlands. The county is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant history.

List of Places to Visit in Warwickshire

  • Warwick Castle
  • Shakespeare’s Birthplace
  • Kenilworth Castle
  • Coventry Cathedral
  • Royal Shakespeare Company
  • Twycross Zoo
  • Compton Verney Art Gallery and Park
  • Mary Arden’s Farm
  • Anne Hathaway’s Cottage
  • Stoneleigh Abbey
  • Hatton Locks
  • Draycote Water
  • St. Nicholas Park
  • Charlecote Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Warwickshire is known for its charming and historic attractions that reflect on its past. Here are a few must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Shakespeare’s Birthplace: The restored 16th-century house in the center of Stratford-upon-Avon is the birthplace of world-famous playwright William Shakespeare.
  • Warwick Castle: This grand castle, dating back to the 11th century, is famous for its stunning interiors, beautiful gardens, and events.
  • Kenilworth Castle: Only ruins remain of this historic structure, once castellated by the fiercest warlords of medieval England.
  • Coventry Cathedral: The ruins of the old Coventry Cathedral, destroyed during the Second World War and now the centerpiece of a stunning modern building, serves as a symbol of world peace and reconciliation

Natural Attractions of Warwickshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Warwickshire is not just about history, but it also boasts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in England. Here are some of the top scenic spots that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Hatton Locks: Located near Warwickshire’s border with Coventry and Solihull, Hatton Locks is a beautiful spot to walk beside the canals, witness the locks in action, and enjoy a traditional English tea break.
  • Draycote Water: It is a beautiful manmade reservoir that offers scenic views and plenty of outdoor activities, including sailing, fishing, and hiking.
  • St. Nicholas Park: Located near the River Avon, St. Nicholas Park is a beautiful green space to take a stroll or a picnic with family.
  • Charlecote Park: This beautiful deer park is spread over acres of green countryside, and it makes for a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of rural England.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Warwickshire

Warwickshire offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in the county. The following are some recreational sports where you can explore Warwickshire’s stunning natural beauty:

  • Stratford Greenway: This 5-mile track from Long Marston to Stratford-upon-Avon provides an easy and traffic-free bike ride.
  • Heart of England Way: The 100-mile long Heart of England Way trail starts from Milford-on-Sea to Bourton-on-the-Water, passing through Warwickshire.
  • Greenway Trail: Located in Central Warwickshire, the 5.4 miles multi-use trail is ideal for walkers, cyclists, joggers, and horse riders.

Best Things to Do in Warwickshire: Activities and Tours

Here is a list of exciting activities and tours that you can do to make the most of your trip to Warwickshire:

  • Royal Shakespeare Company: The RSC puts on world-class performances of Shakespeare’s plays, whether in their famous theater complex or in the open air at farms and castle ruins scattered throughout the county.
  • Twycross Zoo: Twycross Zoo is home to the largest collection of monkeys and apes in Europe. Visitors can get up close and personal with the animals in specially designed enclosures.
  • Warwick Racecourse: Visitors can enjoy watching some of the most thrilling horse races in one of the oldest and most famous racecourses in the UK.
  • Warwick Ghost Walks: Get spooked on this ghost tour as you walk through the medieval town of Warwick and hear tales of ghosts, witches, and murders.

Week-Long Itinerary for Warwickshire

Here’s a day-by-day itinerary that highlights all the must-see attractions of Warwickshire:

Day 1: Stratford-upon-Avon - Visit the Birthplace of Shakespeare and enjoy a boat ride along the Avon River.

Day 2: Warwick - Visit Warwick Castle, one of the most popular attractions in the UK.

Day 3: Kenilworth - Explore the ruins of Kenilworth Castle and visit the Elizabethan Gardens.

Day 4: Royal Leamington Spa - Relax in the Victorian town, known for its Georgian architecture and hot springs.

Day 5: Coventry - Visit the historic Coventry Cathedral and explore the city’s gritty industrial past.

Day 6: Rugby - Learn about the storied history of the birthplace of rugby and visit Rugby School.

Day 7: Nuneaton - Visit the birthplace of George Eliot at Griff House and enjoy a leisurely walk along the canal.

Food and Drink Scene of Warwickshire

Warwickshire is known for its delicious local cuisine, from sweet treats, such as the famous Coventry God Cakes, to savory dishes like the Warwickshire Sausage. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Warwickshire Sausage: This local pork sausage is a must-try when in Warwickshire.
  • Coventry God Cake: A sweet and spiced pastry, coated with caster sugar, is a traditional cake from Coventry.
  • Warwickshire pudding: Although it’s not popular today, Warwickshire pudding was served as dessert in the 18th century

Local Beverages

  • Purity Brewing Company: This brewery produces some of the best local beers, including their flagship Pure UBU IPA.
  • Warwickshire gin: Cotswolds Distillery produces some of the finest Warwickshire gin.

Where to Stay in Warwickshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget accommodation, Warwickshire has a range of options to suit all travellers. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Mallory Court Country House Hotel & Spa: a luxury hotel in Leamington Spa surrounded by beautiful countryside.
  • Stratford Manor Hotel: a contemporary hotel in a charming location with plenty of modern amenities.
  • YHA Stratford-Upon-Avon: offers budget-friendly accommodation in a prime location ideal for youth and family travel.

What to Buy in Warwickshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Warwickshire has several local products and souvenirs to bring home that represent its culture. Here are some of the best local products that you can buy in Warwickshire:

  • Rugby ball: Buy a leather rugby ball at one of the stores, which are commonly seen throughout the county.
  • Royal Leamington Spa Salt: Learn about the history of Royal Leamington Spa with its signature spa salt.
  • Shakespeare souvenirs: Take home a souvenir that represents the bard like a copy of his most famous plays or other objects from Shakespeare’s home in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Local Culture and Customs of Warwickshire

The culture of the locals in Warwickshire is diverse, with traditions varying from town to town. Make sure to always show respect for historical landmarks and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Warwickshire

The best time to visit Warwickshire is from June to September when the weather is mild and pleasant, and events are plentiful. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the shoulder season: April to May.

Do’s and Don’ts of Warwickshire

Do:

  • Visit the historic landmarks of Warwickshire.
  • Dress warmly while exploring the countryside.
  • Try the local Warwickshire cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Litter, as Warwickshire is known for its natural beauty.
  • Be rude or disrespectful towards local customs and traditions.
  • Trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Warwickshire

Warwickshire is considered a safe county. However, the visitors should remain cautious in crowded areas, and be aware of pickpockets. Always carry a first aid kit when going on scenic hikes.

Health in Warwickshire

Warwickshire has a reliable healthcare system. Make sure to have travel health insurance, and if you require medical attention, contact emergency services (dial 999) or go to the nearest hospital.

Getting to Warwickshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Warwickshire is located in the heart of England, conveniently connected by several transport options:

Airports Near Warwickshire

  • Birmingham International Airport
  • Manchester Airport

Bus Stations Near Warwickshire

  • Coventry Bus Station
  • Stratford-upon-Avon Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: Warwickshire is connected to the main railway and can be directly accessed from London and other major cities in the UK.

How to Get Around in Warwickshire

Public transportation within Warwickshire includes buses, trains, and taxis. To explore the picturesque countryside, hire a bicycle or car.

Where to Go Next from Warwickshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Cotswolds: A short drive from Warwickshire is the picturesque Cotswolds, filled with charming villages, sweeping landscapes, and medieval history.
  • Birmingham: Visit the bustling city of Birmingham, with its vibrant nightlife, shopping centers, and a rich cultural heritage.
  • Oxford: An hour’s drive from Warwickshire is the university city of Oxford, world-renowned for its academic heritage, architecture, and riverside beauty.

Conclusion

Warwickshire is an ideal holiday destination for everyone, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts. It is a county that offers something for everybody — stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, outdoor activities, culinary delights, and much more. You’ll never be short of things to do in the charming county of Warwickshire.

Map of Warwickshire Map of Warwickshire The 11th-century St. Giles Church in the now-tiny village of Chesterton, about 7 miles south-east of Warwick The 11th-century St. Giles Church in the now-tiny village of Chesterton, about 7 miles south-east of Warwick


    Henley-in-Arden
    Leamington Spa
    Rugby
    Warwick
    Wellesbourne