Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
United Kingdom
England
West Midlands Region
Warwickshire
Rugby

Binley Woods

Attractions and Places To See around Binley Woods - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Binley Woods include a variety of historical sites, natural reserves, and family-friendly locations. The area features significant waterways like the Oxford and Coventry Canals, alongside ancient woodlands and tranquil meadows. Visitors can explore geological history and diverse ecosystems, making it suitable for various outdoor activities and family friendly days out Binley Woods.

Best attractions and places to see around Binley Woods

  • The most popular attractions is Elephant Sculpture at Ryton Pools, a…

Last updated: May 5, 2026

Elephant Sculpture at Ryton Pools

Highlight • Monument

These sculptures were created to remind visitors of the rich geological history of the Ryton Pools where pieces of neck, tooth and tusk of the straight-tusked elephant were found in …

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop)

Highlight • Historical Site

An important link in England's canal network for around 200 years, Hawkesbury Junction is the northern termination of the Oxford Canal, as it joins the Coventry Canal. If you've just …

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Stoneleigh Meadows and St Mary's Church

Highlight • Historical Site

Stoneleigh Meadows is a tranquil riverside meadow with a community orchard. There is a historic church, St Mary’s, within the meadow, too. The River Sowe flows through the pretty public space, which hosts a variety of events through the year.

Tip by

Save

You don't ride through it but the kids enjoy splashing around...

Tip by

Save

As part of the creation of a new UK Mail facility at the Prologis Park Ryton, our client Prologis had created a temporary borrow pit as part of the works …

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Binley Woods.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Binley Woods

Hiking around Binley Woods

MTB Trails around Binley Woods

Road Cycling Routes around Binley Woods

Running Trails around Binley Woods

Cycling around Binley Woods

Gravel biking around Binley Woods

Tips from the Community

Chris Jones
August 10, 2025, Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop)

beautiful place to ride by, especially at sunrise or sunset. the greyhound pub is on the junction for a half time stop as well. can either head to Bedworth/nuneaton, back into Coventry Central or round to Longford.

0

0

Peaceful & Tidy, enjoyed it

0

0

Should have gone anticlockwise so as to get the streets out of the way first. The detour around HS2 site was a pain as not clearly sign posted. Apart from that a good walk.

0

0

These sculptures were created to remind visitors of the rich geological history of the Ryton Pools where pieces of neck, tooth and tusk of the straight-tusked elephant were found in the local sand quarries. These massive creatures roamed this area half a million years ago and the life size sculptures bring to life the ancient history of the park.

1

0

Hawkesbury Junction is a major waterways place at the junction of the Coventry Canal (Main Line - Coventry to Hawkesbury) with the Coventry Canal (Main Line - Hawkesbury to Fazeley) and the Oxford Canal (Northern Section - Main Line).   Coventry Basin (Canal Terminus) is on the Coventry Canal (Main Line - Coventry to Hawkesbury), 5 miles and 4 furlongs to the southwest. Hawkesbury Engine House is on the Coventry Canal (Main Line - Hawkesbury to Fazeley), ½ furlongs to the northeast. Sutton Stop is on the Oxford Canal (Northern Section - Main Line), ½ furlongs to the east. It is the centre of Hawkesbury Junction. The nearest place in the direction of Coventry Basin is Hawkesbury Services; ¼ furlongs away. The nearest place in the direction of Hawkesbury Engine House is Hawkesbury Junction Gauging Stop; ¼ furlongs away. The nearest place in the direction of Sutton Stop is Hawkesbury Junction Bridge; a few yards away.

0

0

Sutton Stop is a major waterways place on the Oxford Canal (Northern Section - Main Line) between Wyken Arm Junction (Old Colliery Branch) (1 mile and 3½ furlongs to the southeast) and Hawkesbury Junction (Junction of the Coventry Canal Main Line with the Oxford Canal Northern Section.) (½ furlongs to the west)  It is part of Hawkesbury Junction. The nearest place in the direction of Wyken Arm Junction is Sutton Stop Changeline Bridge; a few yards away. The nearest place in the direction of Hawkesbury Junction is The Greyhound Inn; ¼ furlongs away.

0

0

Funded through the National Lottery Heritage Fund the Dunsmore Living Landscape scheme aims to restore the most significant area of ancient woodland in Warwickshire, increase landscape connectivity through the restoration of hedgerows, grasslands, ponds and heritage sites and engage local communities in a programme of natural  and heritage-related activities. These metal sculptures were created and installed to help bring to life the geological history of the Dunsmore Living Landscape Scheme area at Ryton Pools, where pieces of neck bone, tooth and tusk of the Straight-tusked elephant Palaeoloxodon antiquus, were all found in the local sand quarries. The sculptures were a collaboration between Spencer Jenkins, a green wood and metalwork artist (designer, and project manager), and Artfabs Ltd, a specialist fabrication contractor who will assist with larger construction challenges. These creatures would have roamed the area around half a million years ago. The life size sculptures will bring to life the ancient history of the park and reflect important palaeontological finds made on the site during quarrying.

0

0

As part of the creation of a new UK Mail facility at the Prologis Park Ryton, our client Prologis had created a temporary borrow pit as part of the works and inadvertently, created the perfect new home for a colony of Sand Martins Riparia riparia which moved in and successfully bred (2015). The birds were left to nest in peace after a wide exclusion zone was implemented but realising that the site was on the birds’ migration route together with the fact that the borrow pit couldn’t stay on site long-term, we worked with Prologis, Whiting Landscapes and the park rangers at nearby Ryton Pools Country Park to create a brand new permanent and purpose-built nesting site in this 100 acre site managed jointly between Warwickshire County Council and Warwickshire Wildlife Trust. The Sand Martin nesting wall was completed in March 2016 and this year has already had a couple of pairs taking an interest. As well as providing a large and safe nesting habitat, the 15m long structure also has a number of pre-formed swallow nest sites and a rear door inspection hatch so that the rangers can keep an eye on the nesting progress and carry out any necessary maintenance. To prevent predation by other wildlife such as stoats, an anti-predator baffle has been installed below the tunnels which have been constructed of plastic pipes. We also helped create the new information board which has been installed opposite the nesting wall to inform the local visitors to the country park about the new nesting site. It’s hoped that grizzled skipper butterflies will also benefit from the new structure as one of the food plants of the larvae stage – strawberries – are to be planted on the aggregate roof in the near future! Sand Martins are gregarious and therefore tend to nest in large colonies. They are Europe’s smallest hirundine (martins and swallows) and the insectivorous birds are summer visitors to the UK, over-wintering in Africa.

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly attractions around Binley Woods?

Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. You can visit the Elephant Sculpture at Ryton Pools, which features life-size sculptures and teaches about the area's geological history. Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop) is also family-friendly, offering a chance to see canal boats and enjoy a canalside inn. Additionally, Stoneleigh Meadows and St Mary's Church provides tranquil riverside walks and often hosts community events.

Where can I find easy walks near Binley Woods?

For easy walks, consider Stoneleigh Meadows and St Mary's Church, which offers tranquil riverside paths. Kenilworth Common Local Nature Reserve also has accessible trails through woodland and heathland. For more options, explore the easy hikes guide around Binley Woods.

Are there historical sites to visit in the Binley Woods area?

Yes, the area is rich in history. Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop) is a significant historical site where the Oxford and Coventry Canals meet, important for England's canal network for 200 years. Stoneleigh Meadows and St Mary's Church includes a historic church within a tranquil setting. The Elephant Sculpture at Ryton Pools also highlights the deep geological history of the region, with palaeontological finds from half a million years ago.

What natural features and wildlife can I observe near Binley Woods?

You can explore Kenilworth Common Local Nature Reserve, which features ancient woodland, heathland, and the Finham Brook, home to kingfishers and brown trout. Ryton Pools Country Park is home to the Sand Martin Nesting Wall, a purpose-built habitat for sand martins and swallows, and also supports grizzled skipper butterflies. The park itself is known for its rich geological history.

Where can I go for outdoor activities like gravel biking or running near Binley Woods?

The Binley Woods area offers various outdoor activity options. For gravel biking, you can find routes in the Gravel biking around Binley Woods guide. If you prefer running, there are several trails detailed in the Running Trails around Binley Woods guide.

Are there any scenic viewpoints around Binley Woods?

Stoneleigh Meadows and St Mary's Church offers tranquil riverside views along the River Sowe. While not a dramatic vista, the peaceful natural setting provides a pleasant scenic experience.

What is the best time of year to visit the attractions around Binley Woods?

The attractions around Binley Woods can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming flowers to areas like Kenilworth Common Local Nature Reserve, while summer is ideal for enjoying the riverside at Stoneleigh Meadows. Autumn offers beautiful foliage and a variety of fungi at nature reserves, and winter provides clear viewing opportunities for birds.

Are there dog-friendly walking options near Binley Woods?

Many of the natural areas around Binley Woods are suitable for dog walking. Kenilworth Common Local Nature Reserve and Stoneleigh Meadows are generally dog-friendly, offering open spaces and trails. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow local signage regarding leash requirements.

Where can I find parking for attractions like Ryton Pools Country Park?

Ryton Pools Country Park, home to the Elephant Sculpture and Sand Martin Nesting Wall, has dedicated parking facilities. For other attractions, parking is typically available nearby, though it's always advisable to check specific location details before your visit.

Are there pubs with gardens near walking routes in the Binley Woods area?

Yes, Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop) features the Greyhound Inn, a traditional canalside pub that is known for pub meals and is a great spot to relax after exploring the canal network.

What are some lesser-known natural spots or 'hidden gems' for walking around Binley Woods?

While not entirely hidden, the Sand Martin Nesting Wall at Ryton Pools Country Park offers a unique wildlife viewing experience that might be less commonly known than the main park features. Similarly, the detailed ecological aspects of Kenilworth Common Local Nature Reserve, such as its rare heathland remnants and diverse fungi, offer a deeper exploration for those interested in nature.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Binley Woods?

Visitors appreciate the diverse range of experiences, from the historical significance of places like Hawkesbury Canal Junction to the tranquil natural beauty of Stoneleigh Meadows. The unique geological history represented by the Elephant Sculpture at Ryton Pools and the rich wildlife at Kenilworth Common are also highly valued.

Most popular routes around Binley Woods

Family-friendly hikes around Binley Woods

Most popular attractions around Binley Woods

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

Ryton on Dunsmore CPBrandon and Bretford CPPrincethorpeMarton CPStretton On DunsmoreKing's Newnham CPBrinklowCawstonFranktonEasenhallLong LawfordMonks KirbyWithybrookAnstyBirdingburyDunchurchCoombe Fields CPWolstonShilton and Barnacle CPLittle LawfordCosford CP CPHarborough MagnaWolveyChurch LawfordStretton Under FosseBurton HastingsStretton Baskerville CPCopston MagnaPailtonLeamington HastingsThurlastonChurchoverWilleyBourton And Draycote CPClifton Upon DunsmoreWibtoftGrandboroughWolfhampcoteWilloughby CPNewton And Biggin

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Brandon and Bretford CP

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy