Walk in the Footsteps of Shakespeare a Note on the Walking Route Corn

Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Things to see in

Aston Cantlow

www.ardenway.org Photographs © Sarah McCarthy 2011 McCarthy Sarah © Photographs

Contains Ordnance Survey data Survey Ordnance Contains

With thanks to the Heart of England Way Way England of Heart the to thanks With

Registered Charity No: 258612 No: Charity Registered

T. 020 7213 0660 7213 020 T. S

Shop 1 West Smithfield, London, EC1A 9EE EC1A London, Smithfield, West 1

visitchurches.org.uk A46 Stratford A46

Refreshments Steep slope Steep

Parking Trains to

Sites of interest of Sites Birmingham

Arden Way Arden

National Cycle Route 5 Route Cycle National

Billesley

A46 Worcester A46

Cycle & road trail road & Cycle The King’s Head Pub

(Hotel) The Village Hall

Walking trail Walking Village

Manor Manor

Medieval Medieval St John

Billesley Deserted Deserted the Baptist

Church Things to see in All Saints’ Church Saints’ All Things to see in Aston Cantlow Mary Wilmcote Arden’s

Farm Withycombe Wood Withycombe S

Aston Grove

St Mary St Andrew’s

and Church

All Saints’ Church Stratford/London

Trains to to Trains

Stocks

their communities. their

open and in use – living once again at the heart of of heart the at again once living – use in and open

Haselor

our help and with your support they are kept are they support your with and help our Stocks attract more than 2 million visitors a year. With With year. a visitors million 2 than more attract

TrainsChurch toSaints’ All We’ve saved over 340 beautiful buildings which which buildings beautiful 340 over saved We’ve

and

Church Stratford/London St Mary St St Andrew’s St

historic churches at risk. at churches historic

is the national charity protecting charity national the is Aston Grove Aston

The Churches Conservation Trust Conservation Churches The Trains to

S Birmingham

Walcote

Farm

Arden’s Withycombe Wood

Mary Mary Wilmcote

Walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare A note on the walking route corn. of field a trampling for Things to see in

The King’s Head Pub boys punish to 1841 in used Mary Canal towpaths, open countryside, ancient woodlands, cosy The terrain is relatively flat but uneven. There are some steep last stocks, three-person of Wilmcote Arden’s

All Saints’ Church The Village Hall walk in the set a is there road the Down pubs and unusual churches. This trail links the villages of parts, which are slippery when wet (these are marked on the Farm Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow, and Billesley - each claiming its own map). Please make sure you are appropriately equipped. St John

special connection to William Shakespeare. Stout walking shoes or boots are recommended. The route is Billesley Deserted the Baptist wondrous! S

footsteps of not suitable for people using wheelchairs or pushchairs. Manor Medieval Church Things to see are in here from views The There are two circular routes – a walking route mainly on public Haselor. of village the in

(Hotel) Village Aston Grove

footpaths, and a road-based route for cyclists and those with The route takes you through open farmland and fields where Aston Cantlow Church Saints’ All and limited mobility (though please be aware the country roads are livestock may be grazing. Please act accordingly and abide by Mary’s St century 12th the

St Mary St Andrew’s shakespeare visit time, the have you If

often narrowA46 and withoutWorcester pavements). Both routes are about 8 the Countryside Code:

and Things to see in Church miles long, but can be explored in sections. detour optional An A guided trail around Billesley, Wilmcote • Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs All Saints’ Church Billesley and Aston Cantlow. Below you will find more detailed maps of each section of the • Leave gates and property as you find them

trail: Wilmcote to Billesley, Billesley to Aston Cantlow, • ProtectCanal plants and animals,Stratford-Upon-Avon and take your litter home and Aston Cantlow to Wilmcote • Keep dogs under close control Places of interest that you may wish to visit have been highlighted. • Consider other people Stocks Opening times are seasonal – please check before you visit. We recommend this trail be used in conjunction with the Trains to Getting here Ordnance Survey’s Explorer maps (205 and 220) Stratford/London at 1:25 000 scale. These show alternative public paths Public transport: as well as longer signed routes and other useful information. Wilmcote train station is served by trains from Birmingham,

Stratford-Upon-Avon and London. Buses run between

Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow and Stratford-Upon-Avon. The little church Cantlow Aston A46 Stratford

Church Bike: Baptist the

at the heart of the trail Withycombe Wood The long distance Route 5 of the National Cycle Network All Saints’ Church St JohnJohn St the Baptist Church The Village Hall St Andrew’s Church Grade 1 Listed All Saints’ Church was built in the 11th century

(between Reading and Holyhead) passes through the area. Dating from the 11th century, it is said that William Shakespeare This 13th century parish church is where Formerly the medieval Guild Hall, Built in 1841 to serve the growing population drawn to work to serve the village of Billesley. In the 14th century, Billesley Hall Village The

married Anne Hathaway here. Evidence indicates that this is William Shakespeare’s parents, Mary Arden and John it was once also used as the local jail. in the quarry, its design by William Butterfield is admired as a Car: suffered a run of bad harvests and plague epidemics. The Pub Head King’s The where their granddaughter, Elizabeth, wed. Shakespeare, married in 1557. pure specimen of the Gothic Revival. The area lies north west of Stratford and is reached via the church fellTrains into to disrepair, but was saved when remodelled in the Birmingham ...... A46 (Stratford - Worcester). 17th century to become the estate church of Billesley Manor. All Saints’ Church There is free parking at: In 1976, All Saints’ future was secured when it passed into Deserted

The King’s Head Pub • The Mary Arden Inn and Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Assisted Billesley The Village Hall Birmingham Medieval

• The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and with support from local Manor St John to Trains Village Things to see in the Baptist communities, the Trust is working to preserve the church, (Hotel) Church • Billesley Manor Hotel along with its links to one of England’s most famous writers. Mary Aston Cantlow Wilmcote Arden’s Food & facilities This pamphlet has been created in collaboration with the A46 Worcester Things to see in Farm Aston Cantlow and District Local History Society. We hope All three villages have places to stop, rest and eat: the Mary you enjoy the trail. Billesley S Arden Inn and the Mason’s Arms, both in Wilmcote; The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow; and the Billesley Manor Hotel. Aston Grove Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote, also has a cafe and picnic area. Billesley ManorSt Mary The King’s Head Pub Mary Arden’s Farm St Andrew’s The Wilmcote Store is a handy place (and the only one on A new manor house andwas built in the 17th century. Reportedly where Shakespeare’s parents Once the home of Shakespeare’s mother, Church visitchurches.org.uk /shakespeare the route!) to pick up supplies for the journey. It is nowAll a Saints’ hotel. Church celebrated their wedding. now a living history museum and working farm.

Trains to Birmingham Stocks Wilmcote Mary A46 Stratford Arden’s Trains to Walcote Farm S The King’s Head Pub Stratford/London The Village Hall Aston Grove Trail highlights: Trains to St John Birmingham the Baptist St Andrew’s Trail highlights: St Mary Church and Church All Saints’ Church Billesley - Aston Cantlow Aston Cantlow Haselor Wilmcote - Billesley (3 miles) (2.1 miles) The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall Stocks The trail takes you through an area of ancient woodland, This sectionTrains of to the trail will reward you with glorious St John Withycombe Wood Stratford/London the Baptist home to several protected species of trees and plants. It is a panoramas of the Warwickshire countryside, alongside Church Aston Cantlow designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. glimpses into life in this area – past and present. Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal At one point the walking route passes straight over a training Withycombe Wood ‘gallop’ for racehorses, demarcated by high white fences, with Trail highlights:All Saints’ Church sand underfoot.

All Saints’ Church Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Aston Cantlow - Wilmcote Billesley Deserted Billesley Deserted (3.2 miles) Medieval Manor Medieval Manor (Hotel) Village Village Leaving the (Hotel)village, you will find yourself wandering through A46 Worcester wild meadows between vast fields of wheat, oats and grazing Billesley Wilmcote livestock. Many species of plants, wild animals and insects Mary A46 Worcester Arden’s Walcote flourish here: you may be surprised Thingsby a deer bounding to see across in Farm S the field in front of you; a host of butterfliesBillesley wafting their way past; or the electric blue of the cornflower. Aston Grove Aston Grove St Mary St Andrew’s and Church ...... Wilmcote Mary Part of the walking route follows the Stratford-upon-Avon All Saints’ Church Arden’s Walcote Farm Canal. Completed in 1816, the canal became vitally important A46 Stratford Haselor The names of the plants evoke a wonderful senseS of for transporting limestone and lime cement from the local Shakespearean magic: wych elm, downy birch, goat willow, Aston Grove Stocks quarries. Because it splits well, the stone was used for paving, Medieval Moat Trains to dogwood, dog’s mercury, bluebell, male-fern, woodruff, as well as building. It was even used to pave the floors of the ...... St Mary St Andrew’s Stratford/London and common twayblade, sanicle, yellow archangel,Church early-purple All Saints’ Church new Houses of Parliament in Westminster. orchid, yellow-wort, wild carrot and greater butterfly-orchid. The route leads you right through the remains of the deserted Haselor medieval village of Billesley Trussell. A combination of plague, You can also see rock-rose, a plant only found in the south of bad harvests and the landlord’s preference for sheep farmingStocks the county. Withycombe Wood Trains to led to the village’s demise. Look out for the moat that once Part of this section of the walking route joins the Arden Way,Stratford/London A46 Stratford surrounded the village’s manor house. a 26 mile circular way-marked footpath. All Saints’ Church Keep an eye out for the ornate Victorian bus shelter, transplanted Billesley Deserted here by a local landowner to be used as a hunters’ refuge. Manor Medieval Withycombe Wood (Hotel) Village

A46 Worcester BillesleyStratford-Upon-Avon Canal ...... All Saints’ Church

Billesley Deserted Manor Medieval (Hotel) Village

A46 Worcester Billesley

A46 Stratford

A46 Stratford visitchurches.org.uk /shakespeare

Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Aston Cantlow

Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal

and Aston Cantlow. Aston and

A guided trail around Billesley, Wilmcote Billesley, around trail guided A

shakespeare

footsteps of footsteps walk in the in walk

Wilmcote Mary Arden’s Walcote Farm S The Churches Conservation Trust Aston Grove is the national charity protecting historic churches at risk. St Mary St Andrew’s and Church All Saints’ Church We’ve saved over 340 beautiful buildings which attract more than 2 million visitors a year. With Haselor our help and with your support they are kept open and in use – living once again at the heart of their communities. Stocks Trains to Stratford/London

Withycombe Wood Walking trail

Cycle & road trail

All Saints’ Church National Cycle Route 5

Billesley Deserted Arden Way Manor Medieval (Hotel) Village Sites of interest A46 Worcester Billesley Parking

Steep slope

Refreshments Shop S With thanks to the Heart of England Way Association who maintain the Arden Way www.ardenway.org

A46 Stratford visitchurches.org.uk

1 West Smithfield, London, EC1A 9EE T. 020 7213 0660 Registered Charity No: 258612 Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2011 Photographs © Sarah McCarthy 2011 Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Aston Cantlow

Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Aston Cantlow Mary Wilmcote Arden’s Farm S

Aston Grove

St Mary St Andrew’s and Church Trains to All Saints’ Church Birmingham

Stocks The King’s Head Pub Trains to The Village Hall Stratford/London St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Trains to Aston Cantlow Birmingham Withycombe Wood

Walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare A note on the walking route Things to see in The King’s Head Pub Mary Canal towpaths, open countryside, ancient woodlands, cosy The terrain is relatively flat but uneven. There are some steep Wilmcote Arden’s The Village Hall pubs and unusual churches. This trail links the villages of parts, which are slippery when wet (these are marked on the All Saints’ Church Farm Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow, and Billesley - each claiming its own map). Please make sure you are appropriately equipped. St John special connection to William Shakespeare. Stout walking shoes or boots are recommended. The route is Billesley Deserted the Baptist S not suitable for people using wheelchairs or pushchairs. Manor Medieval Church There are two circular routes – a walking route mainly on public Things to see in (Hotel) Village Aston Grove footpaths, and a road-based route for cyclists and those with The route takes you through open farmland and fields where Aston Cantlow limited mobility (though please be aware the country roads are livestock may be grazing. Please act accordingly and abide by St Mary St Andrew’s often narrowA46 and withoutWorcester pavements). Both routes are about 8 the Countryside Code: and Things to see in Church miles long, but can be explored in sections. Trains to • Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs All Saints’ Church Billesley Birmingham Below you will find more detailed maps of each section of the • Leave gates and property as you find them trail: Wilmcote to Billesley, Billesley to Aston Cantlow, • Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home and Aston Cantlow to Wilmcote • Keep dogs under close control Places of interest that you may wish to visit have been highlighted. • Consider other people Stocks Opening times are seasonal – please check before you visit. We recommend this trail be used in conjunction with the The King’s Head Pub Trains to Getting here Ordnance Survey’s Explorer maps (205 and 220) The Village Hall Stratford/London at 1:25 000 scale. These show alternative public paths Public transport: as well as longer signed routes and other useful information. St John Wilmcote train station is served by trains from Birmingham, the Baptist Church Things to see in Stratford-Upon-Avon and London. Buses run between Things to see in Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow and Stratford-Upon-Avon. The little church A46 Stratford Aston Cantlow Mary Bike: Wilmcote Arden’s at the heart of the trail Withycombe Wood The long distance Route 5 of the National Cycle Network All Saints’ Church St John the Baptist Church The Village Hall Farm St Andrew’s Church Grade 1 Listed All Saints’ Church was built in the 11th century (between Reading and Holyhead) passes through the area. Dating from the 11th century, it is said that William Shakespeare This 13th century parish church is where Formerly the medieval Guild Hall, Built in 1841 to serve the growing population drawn to work to serve the village of Billesley. In the 14th century, Billesley married Anne Hathaway here. Evidence indicates that this is William Shakespeare’s parents, Mary Arden and John it was once also used as the local jail. S in the quarry, its design by William Butterfield is admired as a Car: suffered a run of bad harvests and plague epidemics. The where their granddaughter, Elizabeth, wed. Shakespeare, married in 1557. pure specimen of the Gothic Revival. The area lies north west of Stratford and is reached via the church fellTrains into to disrepair, but was saved when remodelled in the Aston Grove Birmingham ...... A46 (Stratford - Worcester). 17th century to become the estate church of Billesley Manor. All Saints’ Church There is free parking at: In 1976, AllSt Saints’ Mary future was secured when it passed into St Andrew’s and Deserted Church The King’s Head Pub • The Mary Arden Inn and Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Assisted Billesley The Village Hall All Saints’ Church Medieval • The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and with support from local Manor St John Village Things to see in the Baptist communities, the Trust is working to preserve the church, (Hotel) Church • Billesley Manor Hotel along with its links to one of England’s most famous writers. Mary Aston Cantlow Wilmcote Arden’s Food & facilities This pamphlet has been created in collaboration with the A46 Worcester Things to see in Farm Aston CantlowStocks and District Local History Society. We hope All three villages have places to stop, rest and eat: the Mary you enjoy the trail. Billesley Trains to S Arden Inn and the Mason’s Arms, both in Wilmcote; The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow; and the Billesley Manor Hotel. Aston Grove Stratford/London Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote, also has a cafe and picnic area. Billesley ManorSt Mary The King’s Head Pub Mary Arden’s Farm St Andrew’s The Wilmcote Store is a handy place (and the only one on A new manor house andwas built in the 17th century. Reportedly where Shakespeare’s parents Once the home of Shakespeare’s mother, Church Trains to the route!) to pick up supplies for the journey. It is nowAll a Saints’ hotel. Church celebrated their wedding. now a living history museum and working farm. Birmingham

Withycombe Wood

Trains to Birmingham Stocks Things to see in Wilmcote Mary Walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare A note on the walking route A46 Stratford Arden’s The King’s Head Pub Trains to Mary Walcote Farm Canal towpaths, open countryside, ancient woodlands, cosy The terrain is relatively flat but uneven. There are some steep Wilmcote Arden’s The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall S pubs and unusual churches. This trail links the villages of parts, which are slippery when wet (these are marked on the All Saints’ Church Stratford/London Farm The Village Hall Aston Grove Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow, and Billesley - each claiming its own map). Please make sure you are appropriately equipped. Trail highlights: Trains to St John St John Birmingham the Baptist St Andrew’s Trail highlights: Deserted St Mary special connection to William Shakespeare. Stout walking shoes or boots are recommended. The route is Billesley Churchthe Baptist S and Church Medieval All Saints’ Church not suitable for people using wheelchairs or pushchairs. BillesleyManor - Aston Cantlow Church Aston Cantlow There are two circular routes – a walking route mainly on public Things to see in Haselor Wilmcote - Billesley (3 miles)(Hotel) Village Aston Grove footpaths,(2.1 miles) and a road-based route for cyclists and those with The route takes you throughThe King’s Head open Pub farmland and fields where Aston Cantlow The Village Hall Stocks limited mobility (though please be aware the country roads are livestock may be grazing. Please act accordingly and abide by The trail takes you through an area of ancient woodland, Trains to St John St Mary Withycombe Wood St Andrew’s oftenThis section narrowA46 of and the withoutWorcester trail will pavements). reward you Bothwith glorious routes are about 8 the Countryside Code: the Baptist home to several protected species of trees and plants. It is a Stratford/London Church and Things to see in Church milespanoramas long, but of canthe Warwickshirebe explored in countryside, sections. alongside • Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signsAston CantlowAll Saints’ Church designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. glimpses into life in this area – past and present. Billesley Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Below you will find more detailed maps of each section of the • Leave gates and property as you find them trail:At one Wilmcote point the to walking Billesley, route Billesley passes to Aston straight Cantlow, over a training Withycombe Wood • Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home and‘gallop’ Aston for Cantlowracehorses, to Wilmcote demarcated by high white fences, with • Keep dogs under close control Trail highlights:All Saints’ Church sand underfoot. Places of interest that you may wish to visit have been highlighted. • Consider other people All Saints’ Church Stocks Opening times are seasonal – please check before you visit. Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Aston Cantlow - Wilmcote Billesley Deserted Trains to Billesley Deserted We recommend this trail be used in conjunction with the (3.2 miles) Medieval Manor Medieval Manor Village Ordnance Survey’s Explorer maps (205 and 220) (Hotel) Getting here (Hotel) Village Stratford/London at 1:25 000 scale. These show alternative public paths Leaving the village, you will find yourself wandering through A46 Worcester Public transport: wild meadows between vast fields of wheat, oats and grazing Billesley as well as longer signed routes and other useful information. Wilmcote livestock. Many species of plants, wild animals and insects Mary Wilmcote train station is served by trains from Birmingham, A46 Worcester Arden’s Walcote flourish here: you may be surprised Thingsby a deer bounding to see across in Farm Stratford-Upon-Avon and London. Buses run between S Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow and Stratford-Upon-Avon. The little church A46 Stratfordthe field in front of you; a host of butterfliesBillesley wafting their way past; or the electric blue of the cornflower. Aston Grove Bike: at the heart of the trail Aston Grove St Mary Withycombe Wood St Andrew’s and Church ...... Wilmcote Mary Part of the walking route follows the Stratford-upon-Avon The long distance Route 5 of the National Cycle Network All Saints’ Church All Saints’ Church St John the Baptist Church The Village Hall St Andrew’s Church Grade 1 Listed All Saints’ Church was built in the 11th century Arden’s (between Reading and Holyhead) passes through the area. Walcote Dating from the 11th century, it is said that William FarmShakespeare ThisCanal. 13th Completed century parish in 1816, church the canal is where became vitally important Formerly the medieval Guild Hall, Built in 1841 to serve the growing population drawn to work A46 Stratford to serve the village of Billesley. In the 14th century, Billesley Haselor Themarried names Anne of theHathaway plants evokehere. Evidence a wonderful indicates senseS ofthat this is Williamfor transporting Shakespeare’s limestone parents, and lime Mary cement Arden and from John the local it was once also used as the local jail. in the quarry, its design by William Butterfield is admired as a Car: suffered a run of bad harvests and plague epidemics. The Shakespearean magic: wych elm, downy birch, goat willow, Aston Grove where their granddaughter, Elizabeth, wed. Stocks Shakespeare,quarries. Because married it splits in 1557. well, the stone was used for paving, pure specimen of the Gothic Revival. TheMedieval area lies Moatnorth west of Stratford and is reached via the church fellTrains into to disrepair, but was saved when remodelled in the Trains to dogwood,...... dog’s mercury, bluebell, male-fern, woodruff, as...... well as building. It was even used to pave the floors of the ...... St Mary Birmingham St Andrew’s Stratford/London A46 (Stratford - Worcester). and 17th century to become the estate church of Billesley Manor. common twayblade, sanicle, yellow archangel,Church early-purple All Saints’ Church All Saints’ Church new Houses of Parliament in Westminster. orchid, yellow-wort, wild carrot and greater butterfly-orchid. ThereThe route is free leads parking you rightat: through the remains of the deserted Haselor In 1976, All Saints’ future was secured when it passed into You can also see rock-rose, a plant only found in the south of Deserted The King’s Head Pub •medieval The Mary village Arden of Inn Billesley and Mary Trussell. Arden’s A combination Farm, Wilmcote of plague, the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Assisted Billesley The Village Hall the county. Withycombe Wood bad harvests and the landlord’s preference for sheep farmingStocks by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and with support from local Medieval • The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow Trains to Manor St John Village Things to see in the Baptist led to the village’s demise. Look out for the moat that once communities, the Trust is working to preserve the church, Part of this section of the walking route joins the Arden Way,Stratford/London (Hotel) A46 Stratford Church • Billesley Manor Hotel Mary surrounded the village’s manor house. along with its links to one of England’s most famous writers. a 26 mile circular way-marked footpath. Aston Cantlow All Saints’ Church Wilmcote Arden’s

Keep an eye out for the ornate Victorian bus shelter, transplanted This pamphlet has been created in collaboration with the A46 Worcester Deserted Farm Food & facilities Billesley Things to see in here by a local landowner to be used as a hunters’ refuge. Manor Medieval Aston Cantlow and District Local HistoryWithycombe Society. Wood We hope (Hotel) Village All three villages have places to stop, rest and eat: the Mary you enjoy the trail. Billesley S Arden Inn and the Mason’s Arms, both in Wilmcote; The A46 Worcester BillesleyStratford-Upon-Avon Canal ...... Kings Head, Aston Cantlow; and the Billesley Manor Hotel. All Saints’ Church Aston Grove Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote, also has a cafe and picnic area. Billesley Deserted Manor Medieval (Hotel) Village Billesley ManorSt Mary The King’s Head Pub Mary Arden’s Farm St Andrew’s The Wilmcote Store is a handy place (and the only one on A new manor house andwas built in the 17th century. Reportedly where Shakespeare’s parents Once the home of Shakespeare’s mother, Church the route!) to pick up supplies for the journey. A46 Worcester BillesleyIt is nowAll a Saints’ hotel. Church celebrated their wedding. now a living history museum and working farm.

A46 Stratford

Trains to Birmingham Stocks Wilmcote Mary A46 Stratford Arden’s Trains to Walcote Farm A46 Stratford S The King’s Head Pub Stratford/London The Village Hall Aston Grove Trail highlights: Trains to St John Birmingham the Baptist St Andrew’s Trail highlights: St Mary Church and Church All Saints’ Church Billesley - Aston Cantlow Aston Cantlow Haselor Wilmcote - Billesley (3 miles) (2.1 miles) The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall Stocks The trail takes you through an area of ancient woodland, This sectionTrains of to the trail will reward you with glorious St John Withycombe Wood Stratford/London the Baptist home to several protected species of trees and plants. It is a panoramas of the Warwickshire countryside, alongside Church Aston Cantlow designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. glimpses into life in this area – past and present. Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal At one point the walking route passes straight over a training Withycombe Wood ‘gallop’ for racehorses, demarcated by high white fences, with Trail highlights:All Saints’ Church sand underfoot.

A46 Worcester BillesleyStratford-Upon-Avon Canal ...... All Saints’ Church

Billesley Deserted Manor Medieval (Hotel) Village

A46 Worcester Billesley

A46 Stratford

A46 Stratford Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Aston Cantlow

Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Aston Cantlow Mary Wilmcote Arden’s Farm S

Aston Grove

St Mary St Andrew’s and Trains to Church All Saints’ Church Birmingham

Stocks The King’s Head Pub Trains to The Village Hall Stratford/London St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Trains to Aston Cantlow Birmingham Withycombe Wood

Walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare A note on the walking route Things to see in The King’s Head Pub Mary Canal towpaths, open countryside, ancient woodlands, cosy The terrain is relatively flat but uneven. There are some steep Wilmcote Arden’s The Village Hall pubs and unusual churches. This trail links the villages of parts, which are slippery when wet (these are marked on the All Saints’ Church Farm Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow, and Billesley - each claiming its own map). Please make sure you are appropriately equipped. St John special connection to William Shakespeare. Stout walking shoes or boots are recommended. The route is Billesley Deserted the Baptist S not suitable for people using wheelchairs or pushchairs. Manor Medieval Church There are two circular routes – a walking route mainly on public Things to see in (Hotel) Village Aston Grove footpaths, and a road-based route for cyclists and those with The route takes you through open farmland and fields where Aston Cantlow limited mobility (though please be aware the country roads are livestock may be grazing. Please act accordingly and abide by St Mary St Andrew’s often narrowA46 and withoutWorcester pavements). Both routes are about 8 the Countryside Code: and Things to see in Church miles long, but can be explored in sections. Trains to • Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs All Saints’ Church Billesley Birmingham Below you will find more detailed maps of each section of the • Leave gates and property as you find them trail: Wilmcote to Billesley, Billesley to Aston Cantlow, • Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home and Aston Cantlow to Wilmcote • Keep dogs under close control Places of interest that you may wish to visit have been highlighted. • Consider other people Stocks Opening times are seasonal – please check before you visit. The King’s Head Pub We recommend this trail be used in conjunction with the Trains to Getting here The Village Hall Ordnance Survey’s Explorer maps (205 and 220) Stratford/London at 1:25 000 scale. These show alternative public paths PublicSt John transport: as well as longer signed routes and other useful information. theWilmcote Baptist train station is served by trains from Birmingham, Church Things to see in Stratford-Upon-Avon and London.Things Buses runto between see in Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow and Stratford-Upon-Avon. The little church A46 Stratford Aston Cantlow Mary Bike: Wilmcote Arden’s at the heart of the trail Withycombe Wood The long distance Route 5 of the National Cycle Network Farm All Saints’ Church St John the Baptist Church The Village Hall St Andrew’s Church Grade 1 Listed All Saints’ Church was built in the 11th century (between Reading and Holyhead) passes through the area. Dating from the 11th century, it is said that William Shakespeare This 13th century parish church is where Formerly the medieval Guild Hall, Built in 1841 to serve the growing population drawn to work to serve the village of Billesley. In the 14th century, Billesley S married Anne Hathaway here. Evidence indicates that this is William Shakespeare’s parents, Mary Arden and John it was once also used as the local jail. in the quarry, its design by William Butterfield is admired as a Car: suffered a run of bad harvests and plague epidemics. The where their granddaughter, Elizabeth, wed. Shakespeare, married in 1557. pure specimen of the Gothic Revival. Aston Grove The area lies north west of Stratford and is reached via the church fellTrains into to disrepair, but was saved when remodelled in the Birmingham ...... A46 (Stratford - Worcester). 17th century to become the estate church of Billesley Manor. All Saints’ Church St Mary There is free parking at: St Andrew’s In 1976, All Saints’ future was secured when it passed into and Church Deserted The King’s Head Pub • The Mary Arden Inn and Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Assisted Billesley All Saints’ Church The Village Hall Medieval • The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and with support from local Manor St John Village Things to see in the Baptist communities, the Trust is working to preserve the church, (Hotel) Church • Billesley Manor Hotel along with its links to one of England’s most famous writers. Mary Aston Cantlow Wilmcote Arden’s Food & facilities This pamphlet has been created in collaboration with the A46 Worcester Things to see in Farm Stocks Aston Cantlow and District Local History Society. We hope All three villages have places to stop, rest and eat: the Mary you enjoyTrains the trail. to Billesley S Arden Inn and the Mason’s Arms, both in Wilmcote; The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow; and the Billesley Manor Hotel. Stratford/London Aston Grove Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote, also has a cafe and picnic area. Billesley ManorSt Mary The King’s Head Pub Mary Arden’s Farm St Andrew’s The Wilmcote Store is a handy place (and the only one on A new manor house andwas built in the 17th century. Reportedly whereTrains Shakespeare’s to parents Once the home of Shakespeare’s mother, Church the route!) to pick up supplies for the journey. It is nowAll a Saints’ hotel. Church celebrated theirBirmingham wedding. now a living history museum and working farm.

Withycombe Wood

Trains to Birmingham ThingsStocks to see in Walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare A note on the walking route Wilmcote Mary A46 Stratford The King’s Head Pub Arden’s Mary Trains to Canal towpaths, open countryside, ancient woodlands, cosy The terrain is relatively flat but uneven. There are some steep Walcote Farm Wilmcote Arden’s The Village Hall The King’s Head Pub pubs and unusual churches. This trail links the villages of parts, which are slippery when wet (these are marked on the All Saints’ Church S Farm Stratford/London The Village Hall Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow, and Billesley - each claiming its own map). Please make sure you are appropriately equipped. Aston Grove Trail highlights: Trains to St John St John Birmingham the Baptist Deserted St Andrew’s Trail highlights: special connection to William Shakespeare. Stout walking shoes or boots are recommended. The route is St MaryBillesley the Baptist S Church and Medieval Church not suitable for people using wheelchairs or pushchairs. All Saints’ Church Manor Church Billesley - Aston Cantlow Aston Cantlow There are two circular routes – a walking route mainly on public Things to see in (Hotel)Haselor Village Aston Grove Wilmcote - Billesley (3 miles) footpaths, and a road-based route for cyclists and those with The route takes you through open farmland and fields where Aston Cantlow(2.1 miles) The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall limited mobility (though please be aware the country roads are livestock may be grazing. Please act accordingly and abide by Stocks The trail takes you through an area of ancient woodland, St Mary Trains to St Andrew’sSt John Withycombe Wood often narrowA46 and withoutWorcester pavements). Both routes are about 8 the Countryside Code: This section of the trail will reward you with glorious the Baptist home to several protected species of trees and plants. It is a and Things to see in Stratford/London ChurchChurch miles long, but can be explored in sections. panoramas of the Warwickshire countryside, alongside • Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs All Saints’ Church Aston Cantlow designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Billesley glimpses into life in this area – past and present. Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Below you will find more detailed maps of each section of the • Leave gates and property as you find them trail: Wilmcote to Billesley, Billesley to Aston Cantlow, At one point the walking route passes straight over a training • Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home Withycombe Wood and Aston Cantlow to Wilmcote ‘gallop’ for racehorses, demarcated by high white fences, with • Keep dogs under close control Trail highlights:All Saints’ Church sand underfoot. Places of interest that you may wish to visit have been highlighted. • Consider other people Stocks All Saints’ Church Opening times are seasonal – please check before you visit. Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Aston Cantlow - Wilmcote Trains to Billesley Deserted We recommend this trail be used in conjunction with the Billesley Deserted (3.2 miles) Medieval Manor Medieval Manor Ordnance Survey’s Explorer maps (205 and 220) Village Getting here (Hotel) Stratford/London (Hotel) Village at 1:25 000 scale. These show alternative public paths Leaving the village, you will find yourself wandering through Public transport: A46 Worcester wild meadows between vast fields of wheat, oats and grazing as well as longer signed routes and other useful information. Billesley Wilmcote livestock. Many species of plants, wild animals and insects Mary Wilmcote train station is served by trains from Birmingham, A46 Worcester Arden’s Walcote flourish here: you may be surprised Thingsby a deer bounding to see across in Farm Stratford-Upon-Avon and London. Buses run between S Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow and Stratford-Upon-Avon. The little church A46 Stratford the field in front of you; a host of butterfliesBillesley wafting their way past; or the electric blue of the cornflower. Aston Grove Bike: at the heart of the trail Withycombe Wood Aston Grove St Mary St Andrew’s and Church ...... Wilmcote Mary Part of the walking route follows the Stratford-upon-Avon The long distance Route 5 of the National Cycle Network All Saints’ Church St John the Baptist Church The Village Hall St Andrew’s Church All Saints’ Church Grade 1 Listed All Saints’ Church was built in the 11th century Arden’s (between Reading and Holyhead) passes through the area. Dating from the 11th century, it is said that William Shakespeare This 13th century parish church is where Formerly the medieval Guild Hall, Walcote Built in 1841 to serve the growing population drawn to work Farm Canal. Completed in 1816, the canal became vitally important to serve the village of Billesley. In the 14th century, Billesley A46 Stratford Haselor married Anne Hathaway here. Evidence indicates that this is William Shakespeare’s parents, Mary Arden and John it was once also used as the local jail. in the quarry, its design by William Butterfield is admired as a The names of the plants evoke a wonderful senseS of for transporting limestone and lime cement from the local Car: suffered a run of bad harvests and plague epidemics. The Shakespearean magic: wych elm, downy birch, goat willow, where their granddaughter, Elizabeth, wed. Shakespeare, married in 1557. pure specimen of the Gothic Revival. Aston Grove Stocks quarries. Because it splits well, the stone was used for paving, The area lies north west of Stratford and is reached via the church fellTrains into to disrepair, but was saved when remodelled in the Medieval Moat Trains to ...... dogwood, dog’s mercury, bluebell, male-fern, woodruff, as well as building. It was even used to pave the floors of the Birmingham ...... St Mary St Andrew’s Stratford/London A46 (Stratford - Worcester). 17th century to become the estate church of Billesley Manor. All Saints’ Church and common twayblade, sanicle, yellow archangel,Church early-purple All Saints’ Church new Houses of Parliament in Westminster. orchid, yellow-wort, wild carrot and greater butterfly-orchid. There is free parking at: In 1976, All Saints’ future was secured when it passed into The route leads you right through the remains of the deserted Haselor Deserted You can also see rock-rose, a plant only found in the south of The King’s Head Pub • The Mary Arden Inn and Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Assisted Billesley medieval village of Billesley Trussell. A combination of plague, The Village Hall the county. Withycombe Wood by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and with support from local bad harvestsMedieval and the landlord’s preference for sheep farmingStocks • The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow Manor Trains to St John Village Things to see in the Baptist communities, the Trust is working to preserve the church, (Hotel) led to the village’s demise. Look out for the moat that once Part of this section of the walking route joins the Arden Way,Stratford/London A46 Stratford Church • Billesley Manor Hotel Mary along with its links to one of England’s most famous writers. surrounded the village’s manor house. a 26 mile circular way-marked footpath. Aston Cantlow Wilmcote Arden’s All Saints’ Church

This pamphlet has been created in collaboration with the A46 Worcester Keep an eye out for the ornate Victorian bus shelter, transplanted Farm Deserted Food & facilities Things to see in Billesley here by a local landowner to be used as a hunters’ refuge. Manor Medieval Aston Cantlow and District Local History Society. We hope Withycombe Wood (Hotel) Village All three villages have places to stop, rest and eat: the Mary you enjoy the trail. Billesley S Arden Inn and the Mason’s Arms, both in Wilmcote; The A46 Worcester BillesleyStratford-Upon-Avon Canal ...... Kings Head, Aston Cantlow; and the Billesley Manor Hotel. Aston Grove All Saints’ Church Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote, also has a cafe and picnic area. Billesley Deserted Manor Medieval Billesley ManorSt Mary The King’s Head Pub Mary Arden’s Farm St Andrew’s(Hotel) Village The Wilmcote Store is a handy place (and the only one on A new manor house andwas built in the 17th century. Reportedly where Shakespeare’s parents Once the home of Shakespeare’s mother, Church the route!) to pick up supplies for the journey. It is nowAll a Saints’ hotel. Church celebrated their wedding. A46 Worcester now a living history museum and working farm. Billesley

A46 Stratford

A46 Worcester BillesleyStratford-Upon-Avon Canal ...... All Saints’ Church

Billesley Deserted Manor Medieval (Hotel) Village

A46 Worcester Billesley

A46 Stratford

A46 Stratford Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Aston Cantlow

Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Aston Cantlow Mary Wilmcote Arden’s Farm S

Aston Grove

St Mary St Andrew’s and Church All Saints’ Church

Stocks Trains to Stratford/London

Trains to Birmingham

Withycombe Wood

Walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare A note on the walking route Things to see in The King’s Head Pub Mary Canal towpaths, open countryside, ancient woodlands, cosy The terrain is relatively flat but uneven. There are some steep Wilmcote Arden’s The Village Hall pubs and unusual churches. This trail links the villages of parts, which are slippery when wet (these are marked on the All Saints’ Church Farm Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow, and Billesley - each claiming its own map). Please make sure you are appropriately equipped. St John special connection to William Shakespeare. Stout walking shoes or boots are recommended. The route is Billesley Deserted the Baptist S not suitable for people using wheelchairs or pushchairs. Manor Medieval Church There are two circular routes – a walking route mainly on public Things to see in (Hotel) Village Aston Grove footpaths, and a road-based route for cyclists and those with The route takes you through open farmland and fields where Aston Cantlow limited mobility (though please be aware the country roads are livestock may be grazing. Please act accordingly and abide by St Mary St Andrew’s often narrowA46 and withoutWorcester pavements). Both routes are about 8 the Countryside Code: and Things to see in Church miles long, but can be explored in sections. • Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs All Saints’ Church Billesley Below you will find more detailed maps of each section of the • Leave gates and property as you find them trail: Wilmcote to Billesley, Billesley to Aston Cantlow, • Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home and Aston Cantlow to Wilmcote • Keep dogs under close control Places of interest that you may wish to visit have been highlighted. • Consider other people Stocks Opening times are seasonal – please check before you visit. We recommend this trail be used in conjunction with the Trains to Getting here Ordnance Survey’s Explorer maps (205 and 220) Stratford/London at 1:25 000 scale. These show alternative public paths Public transport: as well as longer signed routes and other useful information. Wilmcote train station is served by trains from Birmingham, Stratford-Upon-Avon and London. Buses run between Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow and Stratford-Upon-Avon. The little church A46 Stratford Bike: at the heart of the trail Withycombe Wood The long distance Route 5 of the National Cycle Network All Saints’ Church St John the Baptist Church The Village Hall St Andrew’s Church Grade 1 Listed All Saints’ Church was built in the 11th century (between Reading and Holyhead) passes through the area. Dating from the 11th century, it is said that William Shakespeare This 13th century parish church is where Formerly the medieval Guild Hall, Built in 1841 to serve the growing population drawn to work to serve the village of Billesley. In the 14th century, Billesley married Anne Hathaway here. Evidence indicates that this is William Shakespeare’s parents, Mary Arden and John it was once also used as the local jail. in the quarry, its design by William Butterfield is admired as a Car: suffered a run of bad harvests and plague epidemics. The where their granddaughter, Elizabeth, wed. Shakespeare, married in 1557. pure specimen of the Gothic Revival. The area lies north west of Stratford and is reached via the church fellTrains into to disrepair, but was saved when remodelled in the Birmingham ...... A46 (Stratford - Worcester). 17th century to become the estate church of Billesley Manor. All Saints’ Church There is free parking at: In 1976, All Saints’ future was secured when it passed into Deserted The King’s Head Pub • The Mary Arden Inn and Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Assisted Billesley The Village Hall Medieval • The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and with support from local Manor St John Village Things to see in the Baptist communities, the Trust is working to preserve the church, (Hotel) Church • Billesley Manor Hotel along with its links to one of England’s most famous writers. Mary Aston Cantlow Wilmcote Arden’s Food & facilities This pamphlet has been created in collaboration with the A46 Worcester Things to see in Farm Aston Cantlow and District Local History Society. We hope All three villages have places to stop, rest and eat: the Mary you enjoy the trail. Billesley S Arden Inn and the Mason’s Arms, both in Wilmcote; The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow; and the Billesley Manor Hotel. Aston Grove Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote, also has a cafe and picnic area. Billesley ManorSt Mary The King’s Head Pub Mary Arden’s Farm St Andrew’s The Wilmcote Store is a handy place (and the only one on A new manor house andwas built in the 17th century. Reportedly where Shakespeare’s parents Once the home of Shakespeare’s mother, Church the route!) to pick up supplies for the journey. It is nowAll a Saints’ hotel. Church celebrated their wedding. now a living history museum and working farm. visitchurches.org.uk /shakespeare

Trains to Birmingham Stocks Wilmcote Mary A46 Stratford Arden’s Trains to Walcote Farm S The King’s Head Pub Stratford/London The Village Hall Aston Grove Trail highlights: TrainsTrains to to St John BirminghamBirmingham the Baptist St Andrew’s Trail highlights: St Mary Church and Church All Saints’ Church Billesley - Aston Cantlow Aston Cantlow Haselor Wilmcote - Billesley (3 miles) (2.1 miles) TheThe King’s King’s Head Head Pub Pub TheThe Village Village Hall Hall Stocks The trail takes you through an area of ancient woodland, This sectionTrains of to the trail will reward you with glorious StSt John John Withycombe Wood Stratford/London thethe Baptist Baptist home to several protected species of trees and plants. It is a panoramas of the Warwickshire countryside, alongside ChurchChurch AstonAston Cantlow Cantlow designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. glimpses into life in this area – past and present. Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal At one point the walking route passes straight over a training Withycombe Wood ‘gallop’ for racehorses, demarcated by high white fences, with Trail highlights:All Saints’ Church sand underfoot.

All Saints’ Church Stratford-Upon-AvonStratford-Upon-Avon Canal Canal Aston Cantlow - Wilmcote

An optional detour Billesley Deserted

If you have the time, visit Cantlow. Aston and

Billesley Deserted (3.2 miles) Medieval

Medieval the 12th century St Mary’s

Manor Manor Wilmcote Billesley, around trail guided A (Hotel) Village and All Saints’ Church Village in the village of Haselor. Leaving the (Hotel)village, you will find yourself wandering through shakespeare

A46 Worcester The views from here are

Billesley wondrous! wild meadows between vast fields of wheat, oats and grazing Wilmcote Mary

livestock. Many species of plants, wildof animals and insects footsteps Down the road there is a set A46 Worcester Arden’s

of three-person stocks, last Walcote flourish here: you may be surprised Thingsby a deer bounding to see across in Farm used in 1841 to punish boys walk in the in walk S for trampling a field of corn. the field in front of you; a host of butterfliesBillesley wafting their way past; or the electric blue of the cornflower. Aston Grove Aston Grove St Mary St Andrew’s and Church ...... WilmcoteWilmcote Mary Part of the walking route follows the Stratford-upon-Avon AllMary Saints’ Church Arden’sArden’s Walcote FarmFarm Canal. Completed in 1816, the canal became vitally important A46 Stratford Walcote Haselor The names of the plants evoke a wonderful senseSS of for transporting limestone and lime cement from the local Shakespearean magic: wych elm, downy birch, goat willow, The Churches Conservation Trust Aston Aston Grove Grove Stocks quarries. Because it splits well,is the the national stone was charity used protecting for paving, Medieval Moat Trains to dogwood, dog’s mercury, bluebell, male-fern, woodruff, as well as building. It was evenhistoric used churches to pave the at risk.floors of the ...... StSt Mary Mary StSt Andrew’s Andrew’s Stratford/London andand common twayblade, sanicle, yellow archangel,ChurchChurch early-purple AllAll Saints’ Saints’ Church Church new Houses of Parliament inWe’ve Westminster. saved over 340 beautiful buildings which The route leads you right through the remains of the deserted orchid, yellow-wort, wild carrot and greater butterfly-orchid. attract more than 2 million visitors a year. With HaselorHaselor our help and with your support they are kept medieval village of Billesley Trussell. A combination of plague, You can also see rock-rose, a plant only found in the south of open and in use – living once again at the heart of their communities. the county. Withycombe Wood bad harvests and the landlord’s preference for sheep farmingStocksStocks TrainsTrains to to led to the village’s demise. Look out for the moat that once Part of this section of the walking route joins the Arden Way,Stratford/LondonStratford/London A46 Stratford surrounded the village’s manor house. a 26 mile circular way-marked footpath. All Saints’ Church Keep an eye out for the ornate Victorian bus shelter, transplanted Billesley Deserted here by a local landowner to be used as a hunters’ refuge. Manor Medieval WithycombeWithycombe Wood Wood (Hotel) Village

A46 Worcester BillesleyStratford-Upon-Avon Canal ...... AllAll Saints’ Saints’ Church Church

Deserted BillesleyBillesley Deserted Manor MedievalMedieval Manor Village (Hotel)(Hotel) Village Walking trail

A46 Worcester Cycle & road trail A46 Worcester BillesleyBillesley National Cycle Route 5

Arden Way A46 Stratford

Sites of interest

Parking

Steep slope

A46A46 Stratford Stratford Refreshments visitchurches.org.uk Shop 1 West Smithfield, London, EC1A 9EE S T. 020 7213 0660 With thanks to the Heart of England Way Registered Charity No: 258612 Contains Ordnance Survey data Association who maintain the Arden Way © Crown copyright and database right 2011 www.ardenway.org Photographs © Sarah McCarthy 2011 Trains to Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall

St John the Baptist Church Things to see in Aston Cantlow visitchurches.org.uk /shakespeare

Trains to Trains to Birmingham Birmingham

The King’s Head Pub The King’s Head Pub The Village Hall The Village Hall St John the Baptist St John Church the Baptist Aston Cantlow Church Things to see in Aston Cantlow Mary Wilmcote Arden’s Farm S

Aston Grove

St Mary Stratford-Upon-AvonSt Andrew’s Canal

Church and Cantlow. Aston and

All Saints’ Church An optional detour Wilmcote Billesley, around trail guided A If you have the time, visit shakespeare the 12th century St Mary’s and All Saints’ Church in the village of Haselor.

Stocks of footsteps The views from here are Trains to wondrous! Stratford/London Down the road there is a set the in walk of three-person stocks, last used in 1841 to punish boys for trampling a field of corn. Trains to Birmingham Wilmcote Mary Withycombe Wood Arden’s Walcote Farm S Walk in the footsteps of Shakespeare A note on the walking route The ChurchesThings to Conservation see in Trust Aston Grove The King’s Head Pub is the national charity protectingMary Canal towpaths, open countryside, ancient woodlands, cosy The terrain is relatively flat but uneven. There are some steep Wilmcote Arden’s pubs and unusual churches. This trail links the villages of parts, which are slippery when wet (these are marked on the All Saints’ Church The Village Hall historic churches at risk. St Mary St Andrew’s Farm Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow, and Billesley - each claimingand its own map). Please make sure you are appropriately equipped. St John Church We’ve saved over 340 beautiful buildings which special connection to William Shakespeare.All Saints’ Church Stout walking shoes or boots are recommended. The route is Billesley Deserted the Baptist S not suitable for people using wheelchairs or pushchairs. Manor Medieval Church attract more than 2 million visitors a year. With There are two circular routes – a walking route mainly on public Things to see in Haselor (Hotel) Village Aston Grove our help and with your support they are kept footpaths, and a road-based route for cyclists and those with The route takes you through open farmland and fields where Aston Cantlow open and in use – living once again at the heart of limited mobility (though please be aware the country roads are livestock may be grazing. Please act accordingly and abide by St Mary their communities.St Andrew’s often narrowA46 and withoutWorcester pavements). Both routesStocks are about 8 the Countryside Code: and Things to see in Church miles long, but can be explored in sections. Trains to • Be safe - plan ahead and follow any signs All Saints’ Church Billesley Stratford/London Below you will find more detailed maps of each section of the • Leave gates and property as you find them trail: Wilmcote to Billesley, Billesley to Aston Cantlow, • Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home and Aston Cantlow to Wilmcote • Keep dogs under close control Places of interest that you may wish to visit have been highlighted. • Consider other people Stocks Opening times are seasonal – please check before you visit. We recommend this trail be used in conjunction with the Withycombe Wood Trains to Getting here Ordnance Survey’s Explorer maps (205 and 220) Stratford/London at 1:25 000 scale. These show alternative public paths Public transport: as well as longer signed routes and other useful information. Wilmcote train station is served by trains from Birmingham, Stratford-Upon-Avon and London. Buses run between All Saints’ Church Wilmcote, Aston Cantlow and Stratford-Upon-Avon. The little church A46 Stratford Deserted Bike: Billesley at the heart of the trail Manor Medieval Withycombe Wood The long distance Route 5 of the National Cycle Network All Saints’ Church Village St John the Baptist Church The Village HallWalking trail St Andrew’s Church Grade 1 Listed All Saints’ Church was built in the 11th century (Hotel) (between Reading and Holyhead) passes through the area. Dating from the 11th century, it is said that William Shakespeare This 13th century parish church is where Formerly the medieval Guild Hall, Built in 1841 to serve the growing population drawn to work to serve the village of Billesley. In the 14th century, Billesley married Anne Hathaway here. Evidence indicates that this is William Shakespeare’s parents, Mary Arden and John it was once also usedCycle as the & roadlocal jail. trail in the quarry, its design by William Butterfield is admired as a Car: A46 Worcester suffered a run of bad harvests and plague epidemics. The where their granddaughter, Elizabeth, wed. Shakespeare, married in 1557. pure specimen of the Gothic Revival. The area lies north west of Stratford and is reached via the church fellTrains into to disrepair, but was saved when remodelled in the Billesley Birmingham ...... National Cycle Route 5 ...... A46 (Stratford - Worcester). 17th century to become the estate church of Billesley Manor. All Saints’ Church There is free parking at: In 1976, All Saints’ future was secured when it passed into Arden Way Deserted The King’s Head Pub • The Mary Arden Inn and Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. Assisted Billesley The Village Hall MedievalSites of interest • The Kings Head, Aston Cantlow by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and with support from local Manor St John Village Things to see in the Baptist communities, the Trust is working to preserve the church, (Hotel) Church • Billesley Manor Hotel along with its links to one of England’s most famous writers. Parking Mary Aston Cantlow Wilmcote Arden’s A46 Worcester Farm Food & facilities This pamphlet has been created in collaboration with the ThingsSteep to see slope in Aston Cantlow and District Local History Society. We hope All three villages have places to stop, rest and eat: the Mary you enjoy the trail. BillesleyRefreshments S Arden Inn and the Mason’s Arms, both in Wilmcote; The A46 Stratford visitchurches.org.uk Kings Head, Aston Cantlow; and the Billesley Manor Hotel. Aston Grove Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal Shop 1 West Smithfield, London, EC1A 9EE S T. 020 7213 0660 Mary Arden’s Farm, Wilmcote, also has a cafe and picnic area. Billesley Manor The King’s Head Pub Mary Arden’s Farm St Mary With thanks to the Heart of England Way Registered Charity No: 258612 St Andrew’s The Wilmcote Store is a handy place (and the only one on A new manor house was built in the 17th century. Reportedly where Shakespeare’s parents OnceContains the Ordnance home Survey of dataShakespeare’s mother, Church and Association who maintain the Arden Way © Crown copyright and database right 2011 the route!) to pick up supplies for the journey. It is nowAll a Saints’ hotel. Church celebrated their wedding. www.ardenway.org nowPhotographs a living © Sarah history McCarthy museum 2011 and working farm.

A46 Worcester BillesleyStratford-Upon-Avon Canal ...... All Saints’ Church

Billesley Deserted Manor Medieval (Hotel) Village

A46 Worcester Billesley

A46 Stratford