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Wrap up and wander: the best UK walking trails near our hotels
11th December 2024
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of fresh winter air on your cheeks, the crunch of frost underfoot, and the promise of a cosy fireside welcome waiting for you afterwards. Whether you’re staying with us this winter season or simply exploring the area, we invite you to embrace the joy of a winter walk followed by a steaming hot drink and some fireside relaxation at one of our welcoming hotels.
To help you plan your winter adventures, we’ve handpicked some of the best walks nearby our hotels for you to enjoy.
Cotswolds walks: Acres of space at Heythrop Park
With an impressive 440 acres of grounds, Heythrop Park offers endless opportunities to explore without ever leaving the estate. Nestled in the stunning Cotswolds countryside, this Grade II-listed retreat is perfect for a wintery wander. Stroll through peaceful woodlands, meander around picture-perfect lakes, and follow the riverside trail to discover three enchanting waterfalls. Along the way, enjoy glimpses of the majestic 18th-century house – a truly picturesque setting for a winter walk.
Walks in Warwickshire: Amble along the Arden Way from Studley Castle
The Arden Way: a 26-mile route that passes Studley Castle and winds through Warwickshire’s charming countryside and along the River Arrow. Start your adventure right outside the Arden Bar terrace, heading towards the historic Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Continue through the serene College Wood, following streams that branch off from the river. For those wanting a more circular route, make your way towards the 16th-century Coughton Court, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Studley Castle and Spernal Park.
Suffolk coastal walks: Take in the coastline at Corton Coastal Village
The Suffolk coast provides miles of beachside stretches that you can stroll along for a bracing winter pick-me-up close to Corton Coastal Village. Turn left out of the hotel and you can follow the shoreline to Gorleston-on-Sea with its colourful beach huts and golden sand. Turning right from the hotel and the coastal paths will lead to Lowestoft and Ness Point – the most eastern point in the United Kingdom that makes for an impressive holiday snap.
Nottinghamshire walks: Explore picturesque parkland from Thoresby Hall
Right on the doorstep of Thoresby Hall Hotel is the beautiful Thoresby Park. You’ll find signposted routes that are easy to navigate and wheelchair friendly too. A full circuit can take up to an hour, depending on your pace, with highlights including the historic St John’s Church and majestic ancient oaks. Keep an eye out for wildlife and take advantage of marked opportunities to wander off the beaten track.
Walks near Windsor: Riverside strolls beside The Runnymede on Thames
Our newest Warner Hotel, The Runnymede on Thames, is ideally located for crisp winter walks along the River Thames – perhaps with a pub stop along the way. Head to the back of the hotel to join the riverside and take a right to head towards Shepperton. After you amble along the scenic towpath for an hour or so, you’ll find The Three Horseshoes gastropub serving hearty food and refreshing tipples, the perfect winter warmer after a bracing stroll. Alternatively, turn left when you leave the hotel and head towards Windsor. About 35 minutes up the towpath is The Bells of Ouzeley. Situated in Old Windsor, it’s the ideal spot to pause and take in the charming riverside setting.
Ready to embark on a winter adventure?
As we head into winter and the leaves begin to fall, a walk out in nature can help to awaken the senses. As luck would have it, our hotels are perfectly situated in picturesque areas that offer acres of grounds and local trails that celebrate the beauty of nature even on a dull winters day. And after your adventure, enjoy the promise of a well-deserved cosy afternoon drink or snack - we welcome day visitors - and, if you're staying with us, delicious anticipation of an evening ahead with divine dining and exciting entertainment.
All our hotels have routes to explore in the surrounding area with various degrees of difficulty, and, if you’re interested in any of the walks described here or something else entirely, our friendly hotel teams will be ready to recommend something to suit you. So whether you’re heading out for a gentle jaunt or a more adventurous amble, just remember to wrap up warm and make plans to warm up afterwards!
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