Kenilworth Greenway

Greenway by James Turner

Kenilworth Greenway by James Turner

Kenilworth Greenway by James Turner

Kenilworth Greenway by James Turner

The Kenilworth to Berkswell Greenway is a linear Country Park in south Warwickshire countryside, following a 6.5 km section of former railway, with the park extending to around 16 hectares, largely owned by Warwickshire County Council. The Greenway, as well as being a linear Country Park, is a permissive bridleway which means that it can be used by pedestrians, cyclists and horse-riders. Kissing gates have been installed to prevent unauthorised access by motorbikes. It is also regularly used by athletes, educationalists, scientists, geologists, archaeologists and for geocaching.

The  Greenway follows the old railway branch line from Berkswell to Kenilworth Junction, first opened in 1884. It effectively provided a short cut avoiding Coventry for freight trains heading south and rumour has it that it was used in the war for the transport of munitions. you can still see all the old connecting bridges.

Left to itself, the old railway became a wildlife corridor. Hawthorn, birch and other plants quickly took hold and softened the edges, animals and birds found cover for dens and nests. Warwickshire County Council took ownership in the 1970′s but apart from work to clear a wider path, it was left to the walkers and the wildlife.

Car parking is available at the lay-by at Crackley Lane Bridge. Paid parking is at Abbey Fields.