Walking trail
‘What a view’ walk from Upton House and Gardens
As the name suggests, this walk offers some spectacular views to enjoy. A short walk for arable ambling, panoramic vistas, big skies and the frisson of a historic battle.
Map
Start:
National Trust car park at Upton House and Gardens; grid ref: SP369461
1
In the car park, with your back to the main road head for the grassy knoll in the far right hand corner of the boundary. Cross the stile and keep to the right. When the farm buildings come into view continue to the end of the fenced compound then turn left, cross the valley and head for the stile set in the hedge on the horizon.
2
Cross the stile and take the straight path over two fields to Sugarswell Lane.
3
Cross the road then cross the field diagonally to the left to reach the field gate in the corner next to the woodland.
4
Go through the gate and follow the woodland track to the right all the way to the end and through the iron gate. Note that although this section is not a public right of way it is open to walkers by permission of the Upton Estate.
Jets and gliders
Shenington Gliding Club lies just a mile or so to the south (on your left) and occupies the site of RAF Edgehill which was a Second World War Bomber Command RAF base. It was used for both bomber training and operational bombing flights to Germany. In 1942 it was also selected for test flights of the first British jet aircraft, the Gloster E28/39 Pioneer invented by (Sir) Frank Whittle. His manufacturing company was nearby, as was his birthplace, just 30 miles away in Coventry.
5
You are at the escarpment of Edge Hill where a rewarding view of north Warwickshire unfolds. It stands at 700 feet (215m) above sea level and is the most north-easterly outcrop of the Cotswolds. If you are lucky the Malvern Hills will be in view some 40 miles (65km) away. Look out for gliders from the local club or birds soaring on the updraughts caused by the escarpment. You are also looking down on the site of the Battle of Edge Hill. When you are ready, proceed along the escarpment to the next iron gate and through the woodland passing the paddocks on the right and the stables on the left. Viscount Bearsted chose this property for his hunting retreat in the area until his acquisition of Upton House.
The Battle of Edge Hill
In October 1642, King Charles left Shrewsbury to march his army to London where he intended to confront the Parliamentarian army. The King unexpectedly encountered Parliamentary forces near Edge Hill. On 23 October, he descended the steep slope to engage in what was to be the first major battle of the English Civil War. Around 1500 combatants died and many others from both sides left the killing fields either to flee or to loot. After an inconclusive result, King Charles continued onward.
6
At the farm turn right onto the short metalled lane. At the T junction with another lane, turn left down to the A422 at Sun Rising Hill.
7
Turn right on to the A422, taking great care since there is no pedestrian footway. Follow the verge and cross the minor road on the corner until you reach the green and white topped gate on the right. Walk along the boundary wall and through the gate.
The tower at Castle Inn
The A422 heads towards the Castle Inn, about a mile away. It reputedly marks the spot where King Charles' army descended the steep escarpment slope to engage Parliamentary forces at Edge Hill. The tower at the inn was constructed to mark the 100th anniversary of the battle.
8
Proceed down the fields and retrace your steps back to the car park ready to recharge yourself in Upton's restaurant.
End:
National Trust car park at Upton House and Gardens; grid ref: SP369461
