Attractions and Places To See around Ratley and Upton CP - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ratley and Upton CP include historical sites, natural viewpoints, and cultural landmarks. Situated on the Edge Hill escarpment, the area offers panoramic views of south Warwickshire and is known for its distinctive Hornton Stone architecture. Visitors can explore sites related to the English Civil War and enjoy various walking opportunities. The region provides a blend of historical significance and scenic landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Ratley and Upton CP
- The most popular attractions is Edge Hill Climb from Kineton, a climb that is considered a great local challenge. It is recognized as one of the best 100 climbs in the area.
- Another must-see spot is Battle of Edgehill Site, a historical site. This location marks the site of the First English Civil War's pitched battle in October 1642, offering a fascinating insight into the area's past.
- Visitors also love All Saints' Church, Burton Dassett, a historical site with 12th-century origins. Inside, visitors can observe 13th-century wall paintings, medieval tiles, and tombs from the 16th and 17th centuries.
- Ratley and Upton CP is known for historical sites, religious buildings, and challenging climbs. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from significant battlefields to ancient churches.
- The attractions around Ratley and Upton CP are appreciated by the komoot community, with 9 highlights and 10 photos shared by visitors. These spots have collectively received 34 upvotes, indicating their appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Battle of Edgehill Site
Highlight • Historical Site
All attempts at constitutional compromise between King Charles and Parliament broke down early in 1642. Both the King and Parliament raised large armies to gain their way by force of arms. In October, at his temporary base near Shrewsbury, the King decided to march to London in order to force a decisive confrontation with Parliament's main army, commanded by the Earl of Essex.
Late on 22 October, both armies unexpectedly found the enemy to be close by. The next day, the Royalist army descended from Edge Hill to force battle. After the Parliamentarian artillery opened a cannonade, the Royalists attacked. Both armies consisted mostly of inexperienced and sometimes ill-equipped troops. Many men from both sides fled or fell out to loot enemy baggage, and neither army was able to gain a decisive advantage.
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All Saints' Church, Burton Dassett
Highlight • Historical Site
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Edge Hill Climb from Kineton
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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Upton House and Gardens
Highlight • Monument
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St Michael's Church, Bishop's Itchington
Highlight • Historical Site
The church of ST. MICHAEL is situated on the north side of the village and stands in a small churchyard. The old church, which originated as a chapel to the church of All Saints in Lower Itchington (destroyed by Thomas Fisher), at the beginning of the 19th century consisted of a chancel and nave, structurally undivided, with a bell-turret at the west end. Judging from the view of it in the Aylesford Collection it had no external features earlier than the 17th century. In 1834 a small brick tower was added. The whole church was rebuilt in 1872 and consists of a chancel, nave, north aisle, west tower, organ chamber, and south porch. It is built of squared and coursed stonework and has a tiled roof of steep pitch. Internally all the walls are plastered and the floors tiled. The chancel is lighted by a tracery window of three trefoil lights on the east, on the south by a square-headed window of four trefoil lights, using old stone mullions, and a similar one of two lights. The south side of the nave has a porch with a trefoiled light on either side; the doorway has a moulded pointed arch, the mouldings dying out on splayed jambs. East of the porch are three tracery windows, one of four trefoil lights and the others of two. The north aisle has three tracery windows, one of three trefoil lights and the others with two, and on the west another of three. The organ chamber is at the east end of the aisle; it is lighted by a window of two trefoil lights on the east and has an entrance door on the north side with a flat shouldered head. The tower, which is without buttresses, is in two stages, with a weathered offset to the upper stage, gargoyles at each corner, and a plain parapet. The west door has a pointed arch of two splayed orders with a two-light tracery window over, and above a narrow rectangular light; on the south side there is a similar light with a clock dial above it. In the north-west angle there is a staircase turret with an external entrance, and on the north face another clock dial. The belfry has tracery windows of two trefoil lights on all four faces.
The chancel (19 ft. 6 in. by 20 ft. 1 in) has a mosaic reredos at the east end and one step to the altar. On the north side there is an arch to the organ chamber. In the floor there is a white marble slab to Margaret, wife of Lord Chief Justice Willes, died 1757; and two slate slabs, one to John Willes, D.D., died 1700, the other to William Willes, son of John Willes, Chief Justice of Chester, died 1729; and on the south wall of the tower there is a memorial to John Willes, died 1761.
The nave (33 ft. 1 in. by 20 ft. 1 in.) has a trussed rafter roof, plastered between the rafters. The font, in the south-west corner, is octagonal and made up of old stones, probably from the arcade of the earlier church. The chancel arch of two orders rests on short shafts of coloured marble resting on fluted stone corbels. The pointed tower arch is of two splayed orders, the outer carried down to the floor and the inner dying out on the wall. The nave arcade of three bays has pointed arches springing from circular shafts with moulded bases.
The north aisle (33 ft. 1 in. by 14 ft. 11 in.) has an arch at the east end to the organ chamber similar to that from the chancel.
The tower (11 ft. by 11 ft.) has a mural monument in marble, flanked by Doric pilasters, in memory of Thomas, the son of Sir Thomas Hardy, Rear Admiral, died 1749; on it is a shield, sable on a cheveron or three griffin's heads erased sable between three scallops or.
Of the five bells by Taylor & Co., 1874, two were recast from bells of which one was probably by Watts of Leicester and the other by Pack and Chapman.
The registers commence 1585.
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Tips from the Community
Edgehill is a great little climb. Steady, never too steep (max about 11%), good road and few cars.
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Nice and steady climb up the edge 😉. About a kilometer of steady 10-14%. Smooth road, modest traffic. Great threshold climb for training.
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This is the location of the Battle of Edgehill, a pitched battle of the First English Civil War occurring on Sunday 23rd October 1642. A detailed information board stands here describing how the event unfolded, offering a fascinating window into the area's past.
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Upton House & Gardens is a National Trust-owned country mansion located in the northern tip of the Cotswolds in Warwickshire. You can catch glimpses of the stunning grounds and building for free, but to enter the house and gardens fully, and to see the impressive art collection that resides inside, you'll have to pay a fee. There is more information about this here https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/warwickshire/upton-house-and-gardens
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On the walk you can walk through the farm land, but it will not bring you into the NT grounds. You'll come out through the car park. If you have a NT membership you can stop in, but there is lots to see there too.
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The Battle of Edgehill (or Edge Hill) was a pitched battle of the First English Civil War. It was fought near Edge Hill and Kineton in southern Warwickshire on Sunday, 23 October 1642. All attempts at constitutional compromise between King Charles and Parliament broke down early in 1642. Both the King and Parliament raised large armies to gain their way by force of arms. In October, at his temporary base near Shrewsbury, the King decided to march to London in order to force a decisive confrontation with Parliament's main army, commanded by the Earl of Essex. Late on 22 October, both armies unexpectedly found the enemy to be close by. The next day, the Royalist army descended from Edge Hill to force battle. After the Parliamentarian artillery opened a cannonade, the Royalists attacked. Both armies consisted mostly of inexperienced and sometimes ill-equipped troops. Many men from both sides fled or fell out to loot enemy baggage, and neither army was able to gain a decisive advantage.
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Upton House managed by the National Trust is an example of a 1930s country retreat with a wonderful garden designed by Kitty Lloyd-Jones. Café garden and house is open every day from 10:00 - 17:00 although the house closes a little before everything else.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Ratley and Upton CP?
The area is rich in history. You can explore the Battle of Edgehill Site, which marks the location of a significant English Civil War battle. Another notable historical landmark is Upton House and Gardens, a country house with a long history and impressive art collection. Additionally, the remains of Ratley Castle, a 12th-century motte and bailey castle, offer a glimpse into medieval times. For religious history, consider visiting All Saints' Church, Burton Dassett, with its 12th-century origins and wall paintings, or St. Peter ad Vincula Parish Church in Ratley, known for its 14th-century architecture.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in Ratley and Upton CP?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Upton House and Gardens is a great option, offering extensive gardens to explore and a cafe. The Battle of Edgehill Site provides an educational experience with information boards about the English Civil War. Both All Saints' Church, Burton Dassett and St Michael's Church, Bishop's Itchington are also listed as family-friendly historical sites.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The region offers various outdoor activities, especially walking and cycling. You can find numerous running trails, including routes like the 'Battle of Edgehill Site – Upton House and Gardens loop from Ratley' (Running Trails around Ratley and Upton CP). For cyclists, there are road cycling routes such as the 'Tysoe Village – View of the Cotswolds Hills loop from Ratley' (Road Cycling Routes around Ratley and Upton CP). Hikers can enjoy easy trails like the 'Woodland Path in the Cotswolds – Upton House and Gardens loop from Radway CP' (Easy hikes around Ratley and Upton CP).
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Ratley and Upton CP?
The Edge Hill Escarpment, where Ratley and Upton are situated, offers panoramic views of south Warwickshire. The Battle of Edgehill Site is also noted as a viewpoint, providing excellent vistas of the surrounding landscape. Walking trails around Sunrising Hill and along the Cotswold escarpment are also known for their scenic outlooks.
Are there any challenging climbs for cyclists or hikers?
Yes, the area features challenging routes. Cyclists can test themselves on the Edge Hill Climb from Kineton, which is recognized as one of the best 100 climbs in the area. This climb is part of several road cycling routes, some of which are rated as moderate or difficult.
What are the best places to experience nature and gardens?
For nature and gardens, Upton House and Gardens is a must-visit. Its extensive terraced gardens feature a kitchen garden, herbaceous borders, a large lake, the National Collection of Asters, and a rare Bog Garden. The Edge Hill Escarpment itself provides a natural setting with opportunities for scenic walks and enjoying the landscape.
Can I find any unique architectural features in the area?
Yes, the local bedrock, Hornton Stone, gives many of the buildings in Ratley and Upton CP a distinctive honey hue, adding to the charm of the area's architecture. You can see this in various local structures, including historic churches and pubs. The 900-year-old Rose & Crown pub in Ratley, a Grade I listed building, is a prime example of unique local architecture.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Ratley and Upton CP?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and scenic landscapes. The Battle of Edgehill Site is valued for its detailed information boards offering insight into the past. All Saints' Church, Burton Dassett is described as a beautiful, tranquil, and historically rich Norman church. The Edge Hill Climb from Kineton is enjoyed as a challenging and fun experience for cyclists.
Are there any long-distance walking trails that pass through the area?
Yes, the area is home to sections of well-known long-distance paths. You can find parts of the Macmillan Way and the Centenary Way within the Ratley and Upton Civil Parish, offering extended walking opportunities through the scenic countryside.
Is there a good time of year to visit Ratley and Upton CP?
The area offers attractions year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the gardens at Upton House and Gardens and for walking the various trails. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, especially along the escarpment. While specific seasonal considerations for all activities are not detailed, the historical sites and panoramic views can be appreciated in most weather conditions.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, Upton House and Gardens has a cafe on-site. Additionally, the historic Rose & Crown public house in Ratley village is a Grade I listed building and offers a place to dine or enjoy a drink. The Castle Inn at Edgehill, which commemorates the Battle of Edge Hill, is another option for refreshments in the vicinity.
What is the significance of the Battle of Edge Hill site?
The Battle of Edgehill Site marks the location of the first major pitched battle of the English Civil War, fought in October 1642. While the site itself is on MOD land and not always publicly accessible, information boards and viewpoints are available to learn about this pivotal historical event. The nearby Castle Inn at Edgehill was built to commemorate the battle.
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Most popular attractions around Ratley and Upton CP
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