Walking

"Discover the historic charm of Coleshill High Street" and "Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the banks of the River Cole."

Start/End: Springfield House, Coleshill

Distance: Approx. 2.5 miles (4 km)

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (some uneven paths and a steady incline back up the High Street)

Time: 45–60 minutes

Phase 1: The Historic High Street

Exit Springfield House and turn right, heading south toward the heart of the town. As you walk down the High Street, take a moment to admire the Georgian architecture.

The Pillory & Stocks: Look out for the rare, preserved pillory and stocks near the town center—a quirky (and slightly grim) reminder of Coleshill’s medieval justice system.

Parish Church of St. Peter and St. Paul: You can’t miss the iconic 170-foot steeple. It’s been a landmark for travelers since the 14th century.

Phase 2: Into the Valley

Continue past the church and turn right down Church Hill. This leads you away from the bustle and toward the quieter, greener side of town.

The River Cole: Follow the path toward the bottom of the hill. You’ll cross the River Cole via a small bridge. This area is a haven for local wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers or herons near the water's edge.

Cole End Park: Once across, enter the parkland. This is an ideal spot for a quick breather or to let a dog off the lead. Follow the perimeter paths through the meadows, keeping the river to your right.

Phase 3: The Return Ascent

Loop back toward the town by following the designated footpaths heading East. You will eventually emerge near the Old Coach Road area.

The "Coach Town" Legacy: Coleshill was once a major staging post for coaches traveling between London, Holyhead, and Chester. Many of the pubs you see on your way back up toward Springfield House were originally coaching inns.

Refreshment Break: As you climb back toward the High Street, you’ll pass several local cafes and historic pubs like The Swan or The George and Dragon—perfect for a post-walk coffee or pint.

Walking Tips

Footwear: While much of the walk is paved, the riverside paths can get muddy after rain. Sturdy trainers or walking boots are recommended.

Accessibility: The High Street section is fully accessible, but the river paths involve some grass and uneven terrain.

Stay Safe: Always use designated pedestrian crossings when crossing the busier sections of the High Street.

Route Map

Discover the Medieval Grandeur and Moated Towers of Maxstoke Castle

Total Distance: 7 Miles

Difficulty: Moderate (Longer distance, some stiles and field crossings)

Time: 3.5 – 4 hours

Phase 1: Outward to Maxstoke Lane (1.8 Miles)

Exit Springfield House and head south. Turn onto Maxstoke Lane, leaving the town behind. This initial stretch is on a paved sidewalk but quickly transitions into a scenic country road bordered by ancient hedgerows.

Look out for: The transition from the urban edge of Coleshill to the quiet, tree-lined lane.

Phase 2: The Golf Course & Ancient Oaks (2.4 Miles)

Follow the signposted public footpath that enters Maxstoke Park Golf Club. The path is well-marked; please stay on the designated trail and be mindful of golfers. This section takes you through some of the oldest parkland in Warwickshire.

The Highlight: You will pass several "Veteran Oaks" that have stood for over 500 years.

Phase 3: The Castle Perimeter (1.5 Miles)

The path levels out as you approach the red sandstone walls of Maxstoke Castle. While the castle is a private home, the path offers a spectacular view of the 14th-century moated towers.

The Highlight: Capturing the reflection of the castle in its perfectly preserved moat.

Caption: "Walk through time to the hidden moated towers of Maxstoke Castle."

Phase 4: The Return Loop (1.5 Miles)

The route circles back toward Coleshill via a mixture of quiet lanes and field margins, eventually leading you back to the southern end of the High Street.

Top Tip: This walk is long; we recommend bringing a bottle of water and wearing sturdy hiking boots.

Route Map

Note: Some sections follow public footpaths across fields and parkland. Please zoom in on Google Maps and follow waymarkers on the ground. Best suited to guests who enjoy a “proper countryside walk”.

Enjoy a Gentle Lakeside Stroll and Vibrant Wildflowers at Shustoke Reservoir

Total Distance: 2.1 Miles (3.4 km) loop

Difficulty: Easy (Flat, paved path; wheelchair and pram friendly)

Time: 45 – 60 minutes

Phase 1: The Northern Embankment (0.7 Miles)

Starting from the main car park (a 5-minute drive from Springfield House), head clockwise around the water. This section offers the widest views across the reservoir.

Look out for: Sailing boats from the local club and the impressive Victorian-era brickwork of the pumping station.

Phase 2: The Wildlife Conservation Area (0.8 Miles)

As you reach the far side of the reservoir, the path enters a quieter, more sheltered area. This is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

The Highlight: Keep your eyes peeled for grebes, coots, and occasionally rare migratory birds.

Caption: "Enjoy a gentle lakeside stroll and vibrant wildflowers at Shustoke Reservoir."

Phase 3: The Southern Return (0.6 Miles)

The final stretch takes you along the lower bank back toward the entrance. This part of the path is often lined with vibrant wildflowers during the spring and summer months.

Accessibility: The entire 2.1-mile loop is paved, making it the best choice for a jog or a relaxed family stroll.

Route Map

"Experience the Pastoral Beauty of Southfields Farm and the Tame Valley"

Start/End: Springfield House, Coleshill

Distance: Approx. 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

Difficulty: Moderate (can be very muddy; includes stiles and kissing gates)

Time: 75–90 minutes

Phase 1: Toward the Farm

From Springfield House, turn left and head north along Coventry Road. Follow the road until you reach the outskirts of the town. You will see a signposted public footpath leading toward Southfields Farm.

The Farm Drive: Follow the main farm track. This is an active working farm (part of the Wingfield Digby Estate), so you’ll likely see sheep or cattle.

The Permissive Paths: Look for the purple-dotted markers. The farm owners have created "permissive paths" that allow walkers to complete a loop around the farm fields that isn't on the standard OS map.

Phase 2: Tame Valley Views

As you loop around the back of the farm, the landscape opens up.

Wildlife Spotting: This area is excellent for birdwatching. Look out for skylarks in the summer and birds of prey circling the open fields.

The Meadow Link: Depending on the season, some paths lead down toward the river meadows. Note that these are sometimes closed for grazing, so keep an eye on the farm’s gate notices.

Phase 3: The Return via Packington Lane

The path eventually loops back toward the southern end of Coleshill. You’ll emerge near Packington Lane. From here, it’s a steady walk back toward the High Street.

Local Tip: This route is best finished with a stop at one of the cafes on the north end of the High Street to reward yourself for the extra mileage!

Route Map

Note on Navigation: Once you reach the Southfields Farm drive, look for the public footpath signs and the purple-dotted markers. These "permissive paths" are provided by the estate and may not appear as roads on Google Maps. Please keep to the marked trails to protect the crops and livestock.