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Leamington & Kenilworth

The first potatoes in the UK, two fine castles, some Georgian architecture and a bit of industrial heritage! Close to the centre of England and off the tourist track these two towns provide a fascinating short break.

  • England

  • 4 nights
  • Half Board
  • City Breaks

  • Aug

    Oct

  • Average group size: 12-14

Leisurely

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Walking grade

Grade 3

Classed as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,   

Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Meticulously curated, guided walking holiday itineraries that delve into the culture, wildlife, cuisine, and rich history of the world.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Explore Kenilworth Castle and Little Virginia. Rumoured to be the first place potatoes were planted in the Old World.
  • Discover Georgian Leamington. A classic spa town.
  • Admire the view of Warwick Castle and the River Avon.
  • Walk beside Hatton Steps, 21 locks on the Grand Union Canal.

From the Elizabethan explorers through the Civil War and Georgian prosperity of the back of the industrial revolution, there are swathes of culture, history and countryside to explore on this short break. 

First to Leamington, or Royal Leamington Spa, as it should be more formally and correctly known. In Georgian times the village of Leamington Priors grew rapidly to the spa town we see today on the back of the alleged medicinal properties of its waters. The town retains some fine Regency architecture from those times. The building of the Royal Pump Rooms and baths in 1814 was a major milestone in the towns history as was Queen Victoria granting the 'Royal' prefix in 1838. Jephson Gardens, which remain today, date from around this time. A curiosity is the connection the town has with the development of lawn tennis as the world's first lawn tennis club opened here in 1872. Then head out into the countryside for a local stroll before returning to the hotel by public bus.

Next to Kenilworth, reached by local public bus. Famous for its well-preserved castle, former home of kings and nobles, perhaps most notably Robert Dudley, friend, confidant and perhaps more to Elizabeth I. Left in ruins after the civil war the castle and town rose to prominence the 1820's after the publication of the Sir Walter Scott novel Kenilworth. This made the castle a local tourist attraction and led to efforts to preserve the ruins. You can admire the success of these efforts on the tour. Another curiosity in Kenilworth is the area known as Little Virginia, just by the castle walls. It is held by townsfolk here that Little Virginia was the first place that potatoes brought back from the New World by Sir Walter Raleigh were planted. The soil here is ideal for growing potatoes! 

On your waking day, take the bus down to Warwick and walk out along the Grand Union Canal, with impressive views of Warwick Castle on the way to Hatton Locks, an impressive flight of 21 locks. By the very nature of canal side walking, the terrain is flat but full of interest, both historical and natural!


  • En suite four-star hotel accommodation on a half board basis
  • Blue Badge guided tour of Kenilworth
  • Blue Badge guided tour of Leamington
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by public bus and train
  • The services of a Discover Tour Leader
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

77554

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival day

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Independent arrival at the Chesford Grange Hotel in the afternoon. Check in is from 3pm. Your leader will arrange to meet the group in the bar before dinner.

Day 2

Leamington

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    2.5 hours

  • Distance

    4.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    50m

After breakfast, take the public bus into Leamington to meet your Blue Badge Guide for a morning's walking tour of the town. Take in the Pump Rooms and some of the classic Georgian architecture on the way and have time for a mid-morning coffee stop. 

After lunch, walk out into the Warwickshire countryside to Newbold Comyn Park. You will then return to Leamington and take the bus back to the hotel. 

Please note the distances given refer only to this walk and not to the distance covered around Leamington on the sightseeing tour.

Day 3

Kenilworth

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    2.5 hours

  • Distance

    4.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    50m

After breakfast, take the public bus from close to the hotel the short distance into Kenilworth. Here you will meet the Blue Badge guide for a walking tour of the town. This will include a coffee stop mid-morning. Please note Kenilworth Castle is owned by English Heritage and entrance is free to members. Anyone without English heritage membership would need to pay the admission fee.

This afternoon you will walk out into the Warwickshire countryside that surrounds the town. Terrain is gently rolling and the walking undemanding but very rewarding. 

Please note the distances given refer only to this walk and not to the distance covered around Kenilworth on the sightseeing tour.

Day 4

Warwick & The Grand Union Canal

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

  • Time

    4 hours

  • Distance

    8 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    60/110m

Take the bus and train to Hatton station conveniently located by the Grand Union Canal, the former main transport artery from London to the industrial midlands. From here, walk back passing the very impressive Hatton Locks, an impressive flight of 21 locks taking the canal over a local hill. 

You will walk through Warwick, with views of the castle then along the banks of rivers, Avon and Leam into Leamington to catch the bus back to the hotel. Anyone who preferred could easily miss part of the walk and spend some time in Warwick, perhaps visiting the castle.

Day 5

Departure day

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast, check out of the hotel by 11am. 

We hope you have enjoyed your holiday and look forward to welcoming you on another soon.    

Departure dates for your selected tour

5th Aug 2024 - 9th Aug 2024 (4 Nights)

21st Oct 2024 - 25th Oct 2024 (4 Nights)

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Chesford Grange Hotel

Just minutes from the Midlands’ motorway network, the four star Chesford Grange Hotel is set in 17 acres of beautiful grounds just outside Kenilworth. It combines historic character with modern chic, offering a spa and gym. Spacious bedrooms enjoy free Wi-Fi, as well as a private bathroom with a power shower, tea & coffee making facilities, iron and hairdryer. 

Overlooking the beautiful gardens, the River Room Restaurant serves modern food prepared with the fresh produce. Guests can also relax in the Terrace Bar or on the terrace in the summer. Leisure facilities include a gym, swimming pool, steam room and heated loungers as well as treatments in the spa's two beauty rooms. Guests can take advantage of free on-site parking.

Chesford Grange has been awarded a silver award by the Green Tourism Business Scheme. 

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Classed as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks,   

Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Walks & Excursions

Local Transport Costs

In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

Tipping

In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Leader's Evening Briefing

Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.

Your Travel Details

To reach the hotel ...

By car: M1 from the north or south.

Exit Junction 17 and take M46/A45 signposted towards Coventry. At Ryton take the A445 towards Leamington, the A452 to Kenilworth and the B4115. The hotel is on the left. The hotel offers free parking.

By rail: Kenilworth station is situated on the National Rail Network with direct trains from Birmingham New Street. The station is situated less than three miles from the hotel.

Taxis from Kenilworth station will cost approximately £10.00.  It is only a ten minute taxi ride to the hotel.

You may also wish to look at the following website for advice on the best way to travel to the accommodation: www.rome2rio.com

The AA and RAC both offer free and detailed on-line route planning facilities on their websites which may help you find our hotels. Details can be found at: www.theaa.co.uk and www.rac.co.uk

Please check the time of dinner on arrival at the hotel and aim to be in the hotel bar half an hour before dinner (approximately 7pm) for an introduction to your tour leader, an outline of the planned programme for your holiday and the chance to meet your walking companions.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Meals

Accommodation is on a half board basis with buffet breakfasts and dinners taken at the hotel. Picnic lunches are not included.

The hotel offers a full English or choices to suit everyone from the buffet. Dinners include classic British menus alongside vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options too. Dinners consist of three courses, starter main and dessert.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Good quality waterproof walking shoes or trail shoes with a thick, moulded sole with a good tread and a low heel are likely to be all that is required for these holidays. If you are a frequent walker and are comfortable in good quality hiking sandals, these may be adequate for some walks. You can wear lightweight walking boots if you prefer.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Holiday booking confirmation document
  • Travel insurance details (if applicable)
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

The Map Shop

If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:

The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England

Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com

If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for United Kingdom

No compulsory immunisations are required for holidays in the UK although you should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended for life in Britain. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.


Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

Responsible Travel

We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

Staying In Touch

Mobile Phones

Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.

Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.

In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.

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