Take in unspoilt meadows, rolling countryside and panoramic views over Draycote water. This gentle walk through quintessential Warwickshire bursts with nature and wildlife.
From the pretty, historic village of Dunchurch walk towards Southam along the Southam road. Pass over the bridge and take the right turn into Toft lane. Follow the lane,keeping left, until you see the stile on the right. Head over the stile and take the footpath down through the field and into to Draycote Water.
Once you reach the reservoir take a right and follow the main path (or the lower, more shady path through the trees). Before long, you will see a sign towards Thurlaston village on your right. Take the path up into the picturesque village of Thurlaston.
Walk through Thurlaston past the church and the village hall and turn left at the end of the road. Shortly after this you see a gate on your right. Take this footpath through beautiful countryside until you reach Biggin Hall Lane.
At the end of Biggin Hall Lane you reach a footpath. This takes you alongside a golf course and then leads you directly into the beautiful Draycote meadow.
At the bottom of the meadow go through the gate and take a left along the road towards Draycote village. On the left you will see a sign post towards Draycote water. Take this footpath (also part of the cycle route 41 connecting Rugby and Leamington)) which leads you to the water tower. Turn left, and follow the path back to where you entered the reservoir. Take time to admire the water and the wildlife, we spotted several interesting butterflies including the striking marbled white as well as geese, egret and crested grebe. Often people are fishing, sailing or paddle boarding on the water.
You can head back into Dunchurch the same way you came or continue walking to the top of the hill taking the footpath on the right into Dunchurch.
There are plenty of cafes, pubs and restaurants and in Dunchurch to enjoy after the walk. We headed for toasties and coffee at The Square. There is also the Dun Cow or The green man, and opening this June is a coffee lounge called Cuppa.
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