Coleshill

Coleshill is a market town in the North Warwickshire district of Warwickshire, England. It has a population of 6,343 (2001 census). Coleshill is next to the border with the West Midlands just outside Birmingham. Coleshill narrowly avoided being absorbed into Birmingham.

Coleshill dates back to Saxon times, but became important as a staging post on the coaching road from London to Holyhead. At one point there were over over twenty inns in the town.

One of the most notable buildings in the town is the Chuch of St Peter and St Paul which has a 52 metre (170ft) high steeple, and which dates from the 13th century. The font of the church dates from the 12th century.
The town is close to the M6 and M42 motorways.

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Apple Day

The theme of Mary Arden's house is devoted to the history of farming and agriculture in the region. The exhibits in the outbuildings include a stable and barn, a wheelwrights shop, tack room and stables. The country trades are well presented and examples show how the tools were used. The Blacksmith's trade and carpentry section depicts country life as it would have been up to the turn of the 20th Century.

We visited on 'Apple Day', dedicated to the numerous varieties of apple, when a host of country trades and traditional skills were presented with real live demonstrations and presentations.

For more photographs of Apple Day click here

Hatton Country World

Hatton Country World combines the best of select shopping and leisure. The shopping facilities at Hatton Country World contain shops that have, and maintain, unique crafts and craft work using traditional methods. There are also 20 antique shops, adequate restaurant facilities and a butchers shop where you can buy fresh game meat and poultry depending on the season. The Country Village has free parking and the small shops are a treat to walk round.

The Farm Park does have an entrance charge but there is plenty to do and see for the children. With many farm animals the park has a host of smaller attractions and games to help keep the kids amused. This is a great place for a family day out. Smaller children will love feeding the animals which range from guinea pigs, falcons and rabbits through to horses, pigs and goats of many varieties.

Other facilities on site include a soft play centre and a public house.

Further information about Hatton Country World can be obtained by visiting their website at www.hattonworld.com

Packwood House

Packwood is well known for it's topiary garden which is breathtaking in the spring when the daffodils are up and the house and gardens look their best. Tradition has it that Charles II was given refreshment at Packwood after the defeat of his armies at Worcester in 1651. The property was donated to the National Trust in 1941 by Mr Graham Baron Ash in memory of his parents. The Ash family had spent many years restoring the property.

This really is an impressive property as a walk down the Long Gallery and through the Great Hall will reveal. What is often not known is that the Long Gallery was only built in 1931 to join up the Great Hall to the rest of the house. Some of the wonderful tapestries come from nearby Baddesley Clinton and several pieces of oak furniture date back to the sixteenth century.

Whilst the beauty of the house is impressive the garden is positively breathtaking and is what makes Packwood House so famous. The Yew Garden is entered by raised steps and a wrought iron gate. The garden slopes upwards and an avenue of trees lead the walker to a raised path which circles upwards and round until you reach a wooden seat beneath a yew tree from where you can admire the garden and its tranquility from a raised vangage point. Packwood House has a cafeteria, parking, a lake and plenty of countryside for a walk. Only two miles away is the National Trust property of Baddesley Clinton.

Packwood House, Lapworth, Solihull, B94 6AT. Tel: 01564 783294

Further information about Packwood House can be obtained by visiting their website at

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Charlecote Park

Charlecote Park dates back to the Norman Conquest. The names of Charlecote and Lucy (Luce) come from two families who travelled across with the conquest. The first Sir Thomas Lucy constructed the current house in 1551. Queen Elizabeth was entertained here in 1572. The house is in Elizabethan Revival style. 

Shakespeare is said to have been caught poaching in the grounds of the Deer Park. The grounds are by 'Capability Brown' and make for excellent walking.

Shop, Licenced orangery restaurant and Deer Park. This is a National Trust property.

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Charlecote Park, Warwick, CV35 9ER. Tel:01789 470277

Coughton Court

Splendid Tudor House. The Throckmorton family have been here since 1409. There are ties with the Gunpowder Plot and an exhibition which illustrates the family and estates involvement. 

Features central gatehouse, courtyard and fine collections of furniture, porcelain and paintings. The walks are interesting and take into account two churches, a lake, a river, the walled flower garden and bog garden.

Alcester, Coughton Alcester B49 5JA. Telephone: 01789 400777

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Coventry

The City of Coventry, famous for its Lady Godiva legend. Whether or not this actual story is a myth or whether it is true is the subject of some dispute but historical records do show that there was a Lady Godiva who died in 1067.

Many people will be familiar with the phrase 'Sent to Coventry'. This is thought to have originated from industrial disputes of the twentieth century where workers were shunned and shut off from communication through disagreements over striking and other issues that put them in an unfavourable situation with their work colleagues. 

Trade in the 1700's records blanket weaving and ribbon making and the textile industry was originally the main trade for Coventry. This was superceded by watch and clock makers. Coventry and its industry was given a major boost by the arrival of the canals and steam engines. 

Coventry is famous for sewing machines and bicycles and the famous Penny Farthing bicycle was invented by James Starley. The production of bicycles led to motorbikes and cars for which Coventry is well known for. Coventry and its contribution to the war effort in both world wars, along with its neighbour Birmingham, was essential to the armed forces and consequently this made it a target for enemy air raids. Severe bombing during the second world war severely damaged the city and evidence of this exists today with the ruins of the old Cathedral. 

The new Cathedral in Coventry is certainly different from traditional Cathedral buildings. It was designed by Basil Spence and is situated alongside the old ruins. Coventry is now twinned with Dresden in Germany. Dresden was also heavily bombed during the war. Coventry has now developed into a modern bustling city with its magnificent cathedral and museums which include the National Motorcycle Museum and the Air Museum. 

Other notable museums and attractions include The Herbert Museum and Art Gallery, The Toy Museum and St Mary's Guildhall which dates back from 1342. In recent years Coventry has benefited from European Funding and the arrival of large modern business parks and science parks. 

The retail sector has expanded dramatically and Coventry's excellent road and rail network have encouraged many large companies to move their centres of operations to the city of Coventry. This in turn has created new leisure opportunities and Coventry hosts a fine selection of cinemas, restaurants and clubs. 

The name Coventry is thought to come from the Old English 'Cofa's tree' but a more recent survey suggests that the first part 'Cofa' (modern cove) perhaps refers to the pool by the river Sherbourne on which Coventry stands. The cove by the tree perhaps? Places were often given names after landmarks.

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Ragley Hall

Ragley Hall is the home of the Marquess & Marchioness of Hertford & the seat of the Conway-Seymour family since 1680. The Stately Home and Gardens include extensive parkland, a large lake with a picnic and play area, an Adventure Wood, Maze, Woodland Walk, Stables and the Jerwood Sculpture Park.

Refreshments of food and drink can be obtained from Bodgers cabin near the Adventure Park as well as in a dedicated Tea Room in the house. There is also a gift shop. This is an ideal location for a family day out. Take a picnic and let the kids enjoy themselves in the Adventure Wood. There are climbing frames, trampoline, swings, wooden walkways and rope climbs and plenty of places to run and hide. The 3D maze is also very popular.

Ragley Hall Gardens contain some fascinating sculptures with some very lifelike human figures and unusual stone and metal ones with various themes. Ragley Hall itself was designed n 1680 by Robert Hooke, a friend of Sir Christopher Wren. Of particular note is the Baroque plasterwork by James Gibbs which is dated 1750 and the collection of 18th century paintings, china and furniture.

The gardens and lakeside of Ragley are set in 400 acres of parkland which was landscaped by 'Capability' Brown. There are also some 18th century carriages and equestrian memorabilia with an ice house and game larder.

Many events take place at Ragley Hall throughout the year. Check their website on a regular basis for up to date details.

Website: http://www.ragleyhall.com

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Kingmaker - Warwick Castle

The Wars of the Roses which began in the 1450's have a lot to do with Warwick Castle. Warwick Castle under Richard Neville, supported the Yorkists and when the Yorkists won in 1461, Henry VI conferred the title of Earl of Warwick on Richard Neville in recognition of his services to the King.

As fortunes changed and allegiances proved difficult to maintain the Earl of Warwick sided against Henry VI and took the King prisoner at Warwick Castle. The Kingmaker at Warwick Castle beautifully demonstrates the preparations for battle, the life of everyday men and women. This is as realistic as it gets. Waxworks by Madame Tussaud provide realistic settings and as the story unfolds you can almost imagine yourself there among the people, people unaware of the destiny of the Earl of Warwick and the King of England.

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Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is one of England's finest examples of a mediaeval Castle. With over a thousand years of history, this castle was first fortified by William the Conqueror in 1068. This is one of the UK's most visited attractions.

The visitor will be impressed by the heavy fortifications. For centuries the castle was the home of some of the most powerful Earls in England. The Earl of Warwick influenced the battles between the houses of York and Lancaster in the famous Wars of the Roses.

The grounds were landscaped by 'Capability Brown' and over the years the estate and residence were tranformed into a grand Stately Home. George IV, Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and Edward VII were very familiar with Warwick Castle and its hospitality.

The collections of furniture, tapestries, painting and armour make this a memorable attraction. No wonder the Castle attracts over 800,000 visitors a year.

More information about the castle can be found at the Warwick Castle Official website:

www.warwick-castle.co.uk

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Warwick Gardens

Originally the castle would have been surrounded by a landscape designed to ensure that the defence of the castle was not obstructed by trees or cover that could provide sanctuary for unwanted visitors.

As England became more settled and civil wars and internal struggle ceased to become of relevance, attentions turned towards the design of a landscape and gardens more fitting for a grand stately home. The transformation of the surrounding landscape was due to the involvement of Capability Brown. During the 1750's the surrounding grounds were transformed.

Today the visitor is inspired by the tranquil setting surrounding the castle. The landscaping enhances every aspect of the castle with its sweeping lawns to the river edge. The natural beauty is breathtaking and the specially chosen trees and shrubs lend themselves to the overall effect of this impressive and extensive garden. Take a look at some of the photographs for a tour round the gardens.

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Warwick

Warwick is one of the UK's most historic towns. There are many buildings of historic interest here. The most prominent landmark is Warwick Castle which dominates the skyline. Warwick Castle is the most visited stately home in Great Britain. With its staterooms, great hall, dungeons and torture chambers it dates back to the 14th century. The 128 foot Guy's Tower, Ceasar's Tower and Clock Tower are magnificent examples of a well preserved heritage.

Worth a visit is Lord Leycester Hospital, a group of 14th century buildings which were converted into a home for old soldiers in 1571 and is still in use today. The chapel, great hall and the Guildhall with the museum of the Queen's Own Hussars are all within easy walking distance of the centre. At Oken's House you can pay a visit to the Warwick Doll Museum.

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Warwick Rooms

The State Rooms at Warwick Castle

The State Rooms, enhanced with waxworks from Tussaud's, beautifully illustrate and capture the spirit of a bygone age. The ornate and intricate details of the furniture and decor is an unforgettable experience. The treasures of decades of family history lies here at Warwick Castle.

The Chapel

Used right up to the turn of the century by the families of the Earls of Warwick, this small but beautiful building with its stained glass and serene architecture dates back to the early 1600's where it is thought to have been situated on the site of an older chapel.

The State Dining Room

The State Dining Room dates back to 1763 when it was commissioned by Francis Greville. Distinguished Kings and Queens have been entertained here. Some of the finest crafstmen in England designed and built this room.

The Great Hall

The Great Hall is the largest room in the Castle. It looks far finer today with its displays of armoury and fine furniture. In earlier times this would have been the heart of the castle. The floors would have been covered in straw, the room filled with smoke from the fires and the atmosphere dank and smelly.

The Stately Rooms

The Castle has further rooms on show, such as the drawing rooms, bedrooms, music room, library, ladies boudoir, smoking room, dressing room and several other rooms showing daily life and splendour of the castle and its opulent surroundings.

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Kenilworth

Kenilworth is a town in Warwickshire, England. In 2001 the town had a population of 22,582.

Kenilworth is perhaps best known for Kenilworth Castle, although other significant local landmarks include Kenilworth Clock and the Abbey Fields. A settlement has existed at Kenilworth since at least the time of the Domesday Book, the Book refers to Kenilworth as Chinewrde.

The first potato grown in England, brought back from South America by Sir Walter Raleigh, is thought to have been planted in the Little Virginia area of the town, near the castle.

The town was popularized in the romance novel Kenilworth written in 1821 by Sir Walter Scott.

Modern Kenilworth is frequently regarded as a dormitory town for commuters to Birmingham, Coventry and Royal Leamington Spa. In addition, its proximity to the University of Warwick has helped it build up a significant student population.

The town has good transport links - the Birmingham International Airport, several railway stations and the M1, M6, M42 and M40 motorways are within 10 miles of the centre of Kenilworth. The town's station was closed in the 1960s as part of the Beeching rail cuts, but there is a regular bus service to Coventry and Leamington stations, and Warwick Parkway station is less than 10 minutes' drive away on the A46 bypass.

As it stands today, Kenilworth comprises two distinct sections. The New Town includes the high street, with a selection of shops, pubs and a supermarket, whereas the Old Town encompasses the cottage-style houses near the original centre of the settlement, by the Castle, and is separated from the New Town by the Abbey Fields.

The main street of the old town ran in essentially a straight line from Castle Green, just north of Kenilworth Castle, along the High Street. This road continues to form a near-straight road directly to the centre of Coventry.

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Kenilworth Castle

Kenilworth Castle is in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, England. Historically the Castle was contained within the Forest of Arden.

A fortification has existed on the site from Saxon times. But the current ruin is of Norman origin, a great square stone tower was built by Geoffrey de Clinton, Treasurer and Chief Justice of England to Henry I, in about 1125. Henry II took control of the castle during the rebellion of 1173-1174, giving the Clintons another castle in Buckinghamshire by way of compensation.

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Warwickshire

Welcome to the County of Warwickshire. Take a day out and explore the town of Royal Leamington Spa with it's Georgian and Regency houses, art gallery and museum.

Alternatively you might like to visit two of the UK's leading tourist attractions, Warwick Castle and Stratford upon Avon the birthplace of Shakespeare. Warwick Castle is the most visited stately home in the UK and is an impressive and majestic structure dating back to the 14th century.

Warwick gets it's name from the old English word 'wering' which means river dam. Early records from the eleventh century name it as 'waerinc wicum' meaning river dam dwellings. Situated on the river Avon it is easy to understand how it acquired it's name.

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Ann Hathaway's Cottage

Anne Hathaway's Cottage is probably one of the best known buildings in the world. Situated just a short distance away from the town centre it is idyllic and dates back to the 15th century. Set in beautiful surroundings with a magnificent garden, the picturesque cottage is where William Shakespeare came to visit his bride.

At the age of 18, William married Anne Hathaway and the couple produced twins some six months later. Although William lived and worked for most of his time in the capital, he did frequently visit Stratford where Anne Hathaway and his two daughters, Hamnet and Judith continued to live.

The family moved to a new residence at New Place and this is where William retired to in 1614. His death occurred just two years afterwards in 1616. Anne Hathaway died in 1623. The property at New Place was demolished by the local vicar some years later.

Mary Arden's House

Mary Arden's House is the birthplace of William Shakespeare's mother. She was born here around 1535 when the house would have been about 20 years old. The property has been extensively restored and would have looked quite different from how it is seen today.

Visitors can see how the house has changed through the ages and the tour includes the living room, the dairy, the parlour, the larder and a scullery. The upstairs rooms are empty but analysis of the timbers dates them around 1514.

The outbuildings display horse drawn carts and fully equipped stables. Exhibits in the outbuildings provide a fascinating insight into country life. We visited Mary Arden's House on 'Apple Day' and if you click on the link in the right hand column you can see the traditional costumes and trades that would have been associated with country villages all over the UK until the advent of more modern farming methods.

Stratford upon Avon

Stratford is a major UK tourist destination. The birthplace of William Shakespeare, the world's greatest playwright, it nestles alongside the beautiful river Avon. The town certainly benefits from its famous prodigy. There is plenty to do and see in Stratford upon Avon. Visitors from all over the UK and abroad can be found wandering the historic streets of this unique town.

There has been a settlement at Stratford upon Avon since the Bronze Age. The Domesday book shows Stratford as a manor rather than a village. It belonged to the Bishop of Worcester. Developing into a thriving market town the area prospered. Although William Shakespeare was born, and also died in Stratford, he spent most of his time in London. However, he never turned his back on Stratford and made several investments in property in the town.

As you would expect, Stratford is famous for its theatres. There are actually three in Stratford. Many famous actors have started their careers here. Even if Shakespeare is not the reason for your visit, this beautiful town will inspire you. The town is popular with motorcyclists and street vendors always provide an element of interest to the visitor. The restaurants are excellent and the hotels and guest houses in the area are well used to receiving visitors and catering for their needs.

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William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was born in Stratford upon Avon in 1564. The world's greatest playwright started his humble beginnings here and was probably inspired by the surroundings to which he was accustomed. William's early life in Stratford was not without its problems. William used to poach rabbits and steal from the orchards of wealthy landowners.

William Shakespeare was by no means poor. His father, John Shakespeare was a leading government official in the town. He was also a merchant for local farmers. It was due to his fathers fortunate position that William Shakespeare attended Grammar School, studying for a period of six years, learning latin and preparing the way for his poetry and career as a playwright.

William was only 18 years of age when he married Anne Hathaway. Only six months later in 1585 Anne produced twins. That very same year William left Stratford and his family. William's departure is said to have been caused by a charge of deer poaching brought against him by a wealthy landowner.

Reaching London, William Shakespeare worked at one of the most prestigious theatres in the capital. Working his way up the ranks it was not long before his talent was spotted by the Earl of Leicester's company of actors, known for their performances at the leading theatres in the London.

The rest of the William Shakespeare story is written firmly in the annals of history. He became a wealthy man, returning to Stratford in 1614 to retire due to his declining health. He died in 1616.