Attractions and Places To See around Atherstone CP - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Atherstone CP include a blend of historical landmarks and natural landscapes. This historic market town in North Warwickshire, situated on the old Roman Watling Street, offers insights into its past and connections to surrounding natural beauty. Visitors can explore a range of sites from ancient routes to modern wetlands and reservoirs, providing diverse outdoor and cultural experiences. The area is characterized by its market town heritage and proximity to significant natural features like…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland
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Shustoke Reservoir
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Echills Wood Railway
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Kingsbury Water Park Visitor Centre
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Kingsbury Meadow Local Nature Reserve
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Tips from the Community
Open every Sunday except the 4 Sunday of January.... Guess which day I went
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Interesting place helpful guy on the desk
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A Warwickshire Council managed country park covering over 600 acres and including 15 different lakes. The park was created by flooding old gravel pits.
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Shustoke Reservoir is managed by Severn Trent. The reservoir was completed in 1884 to provide water for Birmingham. Nowerdays the reservoir supplies Nuneaton and the surrounding area.
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The history of Shustoke Why were the reservoirs created here? In 1870 the Industrial Revolution was in full swing, as was the birthrate and the need for clean water was becoming more pressing. The Birmingham Water Works Company therefore applied to Parliament for permission for water to be taken from the Rivers Bourne and Blythe, whose gathering grounds in rural areas to the East of Birmingham were declared to be away from pollution, and to impound the water from the Bourne in a reservoir which was built at Shustoke. A pumping station, filter beds and another small reservoir was also constructed at Whitacre. What was here before? Before the reservoir was built, the land was occupied by Whitacre Lodge which was part of the Hams Estate. This was sold by Lord Norton in 1879, for the building of Shustoke Reservoir. How long did it take to build the Reservoirs? The time-scale granted for this work was 10 years and although most of the work at Whitacre was completed in the time scheduled, an extension of five years was applied for in 1879 as the reservoir at Shustoke had hardly been started; the eventual completion was around 1884. What is the Reservoirs role in the water supply network? When the reservoirs were built they were to supply water to the nearby Whitacre Treatment Works, which was to provide 28 million litres of water daily to Birmingham. As the city grew this soon became inadequate and with the completion of the Elan Valley scheme in 1904 Whitacre was relegated to standby duty. In 1908 Whitacre was recommissioned to supply water to Coventry to supplement the local borehole supplies. In the 1050’s Whitacre also started to supply Nuneaton and now about 10% of the water from Shustoke supplies Coventry with the rest going to Nuneaton and the surrounding districts of Bedworth and Atherstone. Where does the water come from? The water is gravity fed by the nearby River Bourne which runs along the north of the two reservoirs. How deep and big are the reservoirs? The reservoirs consist of a settling pool of 7.8 acres and a storage reservoir of 92 acres. Combined they have a capacity of around 460,000,000 gallons.
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The sedge bed has two species that are important to Warwickshire and not found much in our county - Brown sedge and Marsh horsetail. Look out for evidence of otters in the area and fish in the brook. If you're here at dusk you might see pipistrelle bats. The swamp habitat here is great for bees, dragonflies and hoverflies and the wildflowers include great burnet - spot the crimson lollipop flowers!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Atherstone CP?
The area around Atherstone CP offers diverse natural landscapes. You can visit the Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland, a restored floodplain rich in wildlife, or enjoy the tranquil waters of Shustoke Reservoir, which provides opportunities for outdoor activities. Kingsbury Water Park is another fantastic destination with a network of lakes and trails for walking and birdwatching. The picturesque Coventry Canal also runs through the town, offering scenic strolls.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Atherstone CP area?
Yes, several attractions are great for families. The Echills Wood Railway, a miniature railway running through Kingsbury Water Park, offers a unique way to explore and spot wildlife. Kingsbury Water Park itself is very family-friendly, with 15 lakes and over 600 acres of country park to explore. The Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland also features viewing and pond-dipping platforms, making it engaging for younger visitors.
What historical sites can I visit in Atherstone?
Atherstone boasts a rich history. You can explore the beautiful Grade II* listed St Mary's Church, with parts dating back to the 12th century. The Atherstone Heritage Centre, a volunteer-run museum, tells the town's story from Roman times, including its hat manufacturing industry and connections to historical figures. The town's historic Market Square has retained its layout for 750 years and still hosts a vibrant weekly market. Don't forget to consider the ancient Roman Watling Street, which Atherstone sits upon.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Atherstone CP?
Beyond exploring the attractions, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, mountain biking, and running. For easy hikes, consider trails like the 'Bluebell Woodland loop from Atherstone' or canal-side walks. Mountain bikers can explore routes such as the 'Lime Kilns Pub – Rural Downhill Road loop'. Runners have options like the 'St. Mary's Church, Atherstone – Coventry Canal loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the easy hikes, MTB trails, and running trails guides for Atherstone CP.
Are there any unique local events or traditions in Atherstone?
Atherstone is famous for its unique and historic Shrove Tuesday Ball Game, an event held every Shrove Tuesday for over 800 years. This lively game involves throwing, kicking, and carrying a large leather ball through the town's streets. The town also hosts a vibrant events calendar, including the Stonefest arts festival, Summer in the Square, and a Motor Show in September.
Where can I find refreshments or places to eat near the attractions?
Kingsbury Water Park has a visitor centre that is a good stop for refreshments. Atherstone town itself offers a variety of independent shops and cafes, including a 1940s-themed café. The town is also home to several historic pubs like The Kings Head (dating back to the 15th century) and The White Horse, which offer character and a welcoming atmosphere.
What is the best time of year to visit Atherstone CP for outdoor activities?
Spring and summer are generally ideal for outdoor activities around Atherstone CP, with pleasant weather for walking, cycling, and exploring the natural features like Kingsbury Water Park and the Tame Valley Wetlands. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery, especially in places like Hartshill Hayes Country Park. Some areas, like Kingsbury Meadow Local Nature Reserve, can get boggy after heavy rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended, particularly in wetter seasons.
Are there any accessible trails or facilities for visitors with mobility needs?
Kingsbury Water Park offers surfaced paths suitable for various mobility levels, and its visitor centre is noted as wheelchair accessible. While specific details for all trails are not available, the park aims to provide an inclusive experience across its 600 acres. It's always advisable to check specific trail conditions if you have particular accessibility requirements.
What is the significance of the Coventry Canal in Atherstone?
The Coventry Canal is a significant feature running through Atherstone. It's not just picturesque but also historically important, featuring a series of eleven locks. The canal offers scenic walking opportunities and connects Atherstone to the wider countryside, providing a tranquil environment for leisurely strolls and observing canal life.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural areas around Atherstone CP?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and wildlife spotting opportunities. At the Tame Valley Wetlands Community Wetland, people enjoy the restored floodplain and the chance to see various bird species from viewing platforms. Shustoke Reservoir is valued for its peaceful setting and outdoor activity potential. The Kingsbury Meadow Local Nature Reserve is praised for its peaceful atmosphere, wildflowers, and the chance to spot otters and bats.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting?
Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring Kingsbury Meadow Local Nature Reserve. This small, peaceful meadow on the Hurley Brook offers a chance to see unique sedge beds, wildflowers, and potentially otters or pipistrelle bats. It's a quiet spot for nature lovers, especially when the stepping stones across the brook are accessible for a circular walk.
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