Attractions and Places To See around Withybrook - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Withybrook include historical sites and local points of interest. This rural village in Warwickshire features well-preserved medieval settlement remains and a 14th-century church. Situated in a valley traversed by a small brook, the area offers a blend of historical insights and rural charm. Nearby, visitors can explore significant canal networks and historical cities.
Best attractions and places to see around Withybrook
- The most popular attractions is Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop), a historical site that serves as an important link in England's canal network. It is known for the historic Greyhound Inn and its role as the northern termination of the Oxford Canal, where it joins the Coventry Canal.
- Another must-see spot is Ruins of Coventry Cathedral (St Michael's Cathedral), a historical site and man-made monument. This former church serves as a memorial, showcasing the remains of the cathedral after its destruction.
- Visitors also love St John the Baptist Church, a historical site and religious building. This parish church, rebuilt around the end of the 15th century, features a chancel, nave, and a west tower.
- Withybrook is known for historical sites, religious buildings, and canal junctions. Visitors can explore medieval remains, significant churches, and important waterways in the vicinity.
- The attractions around Withybrook are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 75 upvotes and 35 photos shared.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop)
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Ruins of Coventry Cathedral (St Michael's Cathedral)
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Holy Trinity Church, Coventry
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The church was restored in 1665–1668, and the tower was recased in 1826 by Thomas Rickman. The east end was rebuilt in 1786 and the west front by Richard Charles Hussey in 1843.
The inside of the church was restored by George Gilbert Scott in 1854.
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St John the Baptist Church
Highlight • Historical Site
The chancel is built of a mixture of limestone and sandstone rubble patched with bricks and tiles and has a modern steep-pitched tiled roof, modern coping and cross finial, and rebuilt buttresses. It is lighted on the east by a modern window of three pointed lights with a hood-mould and head-stops. The south side has a central buttress, and west of it are two restored lancet windows with a narrow doorway between them. The lancet to the west is divided by a transom to form a low side window. The doorway has a restored pointed arch, the splay carried down the jambs. The north side has a central buttress and another butting against the aisle wall, with a restored lancet window between them. The south aisle is built of red sandstone ashlar with a plinth of one splay, stepped down to conform with the slope of the ground. The wall is diminished in thickness by a weathered offset at sill level. It has a low-pitched lead-covered roof with a plain low parapet, with a moulded coping projected on a moulded stringcourse. The east gable is lighted by a partly restored traceried window of three cinquefoil lights under a hollow-moulded four-centred head. The south wall has buttresses at the angles, two intermediately, and a porch towards the western end. It is lighted between the buttresses by three windows similar to the one in the east wall. The porch has been rebuilt in brick and stone with a tiled roof and the entrance blocked to form a vestry. The south door, which has a four-centred arch under a square head, has been mutilated. The west end is similar to the east, but the coping is carried up as a lean-to instead of a gable. The buttress at the angle is diagonal, splayed to a point. The north aisle is built of rubble similar to the chancel and has a lean-to roof covered with lead, a battlemented parapet with trefoil panelled pinnacles at each end and crocketed finials. Originally there were two intermediate pinnacles, of which only the bases remain. The north side has diagonal buttresses at the angles, one intermediate and, towards the west, a porch. It is lighted by two three-light traceried windows with splayed fourcentred heads, the centre light trefoiled, the two outer cinquefoil; by a similar window on the east; and on the west by a trefoiled single light with a square head. The porch is timber-framed with a tiled roof, and the entrance has been fitted with a pair of modern doors. On both sides the timbering has been concealed, externally with roughcast and internally with plaster. The front retains its timbering, the entrance having a heavy moulded frame and four-centred head, carved spandrels and lintel, and a timber-framed gable plastered between the timbers. The door has a moulded four-centred head, square hood-mould, carved spandrels, and trefoil-panelled soffit and reveals which have been badly mutilated. In the centre of the hood-mould there is a shield with three swords (for Clarke).
The tower is built of light-coloured sandstone ashlar with a moulded plinth and battlemented parapet on a coved string-course; at each angle there are bases for pinnacles. It rises in four stages, diminished at each stage by weathered offsets on the north and south, and on the east and west at the first and half-way up the third only. At the angles there are diagonal buttresses rising in five stages and splayed off to a sharp edge, except at the third stages on the west side which have gabled trefoiled niches. The west doorway, in a deep wave-moulded splay, is constructed of red sandstone and has a moulded four-centred arch under a square head, with carved spandrels. It is flanked by wall aracading in two tiers of trefoil-headed roll-moulded panels. Above the doorway is a tall pointed traceried window of three cinquefoil lights with a hood-mould, the tracery and mullions being modern, and in the second stage a clock dial. The tower staircase is in the south-west angle, with a loop-light to each stage and a square-headed doorway opening on to the aisle roof. The belfry is lighted on each face by pointed traceried windows of two trefoil lights, and the ringing chamber by similar windows on the north and south.
Internally the floor of modern tiles has been laid to a continuous fall from east to west, probably taking the place of a series of steps, as the bases of the arcade pillars and windows are stepped down following the slope. The walls, except the arcades and tower, are plastered, the plaster being finished round all the aisle windows with scalloped edges.
The chancel (28 ft. 4 in. by 15 ft. 6 in.) has four steps from the nave and three to the altar in addition to the slope of the floor. The east wall has a dado of modern coloured embossed tiles, and the window a segmental pointed rear-arch. At the east end of the south wall there is a shallow recess with a segmental pointed stop-chamfered head, probably a blocked piscina. The lancet windows have splayed recesses with square heads, and the doorway a segmental pointed rear-arch. The roof is a modern hammer-beam, its trusses supported on carved stone corbels. It is continued under the chancel arch with twin trusses, panelled between with pierced panels and supported on slender stone shafts with carved capitals and moulded bases resting on moulded corbels.
The nave (48 ft. 3 in. by 17 ft. 7 in.) has a modern open roof with curved trusses resting on moulded timber corbels. Both arcades consist of five bays of pointed arches, of two splayed orders, supported on lozenge-shaped roll-moulded pillars, the arch splays dying out on the mouldings, which terminate in splayed stops on plain lozenge-shaped pedestals. At the junction of the south arcade with the chancel there is a circular stair up to a square-headed doorway which gave access to a rood, and half-way up there is a pointed opening to the aisle. It is lighted from the east by a small square-headed two-light window. The chancel arch is a modern pointed one, of two splayed orders, dying out on the north wall and on the south resting on a floriated corbel. The tower has a pointed arch of two splays to the tower and three to the nave, the inner order supported on three-quarter-round responds with moulded capitals and bases. The arch is of red sandstone with capitals of a light-coloured stone, and on the tower side in the apex there is a carving of an angel. The south-west angle is corbelled out in three steps for the tower staircase, the upper step being trefoiled, and below it there is a square-headed doorway. The pulpit and reading desk, of stone, are modern.
The south aisle (49 ft. by 12 ft. 9 in.) has a lowpitched open roof of five bays with moulded members and carved bosses in the centres of the tie-beams. It probably dates from the early 16th century; the boarding and some rafters are modern. The trusses rest on stone corbels on the south wall, and on the north the outer roll mouldings of the arcade pillars are carried up with capitals in place of corbels. At the east end, the north-east angle is splayed to accommodate the staircase to the rood. The windows have hollowmoulded reveals with four-centred rear-arches, the window to the east having its arch extended eastwards and carried down to form a recess. The east wall has an offset at sill level with a chamfered stone capping, and the window reveals are carried down as a recess. In the east window there are some fragments of early coloured glass consisting of two chalices and parts of a canopy.
The north aisle (45 ft. 7 in. by 9 ft. 11 in.) has a lean-to roof of five bays, of which two retain some of their original moulded members, probably early-16thcentury. The trusses are supported on stone corbels on the north wall and on square blocks of stone as capitals to the outer roll moulding of the arcade pillars. Over the door there is a painted coat of arms of George IV. The font, with a lead-lined basin, is built into the west side of the north arcade pillar opposite the door. It is of stone, with an octagonal moulded basin with paterae, and octagonal stem and base which has been rendered in cement. It has been re-dressed but is probably contemporary with the arcade. Near the door there is a small 17th-century oak chest with three hasps and fitted with lifting rings at each end. In the centre and east windows there are a few fragments of early glass, including a peacock and portions of a castle.
The tower (15 ft. 10 in. by 13 ft.) has a window with widely splayed reveals, and a rear-arch of two splayed orders; the recess is carried down to include the doorway.
In the chancel and aisles there are a number of 18thand 19th-century wall memorials.
There are five bells, all of 1705, by Joseph Smith of Edgbaston.
The registers begin in 1558.
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Wolston War Memorial
Highlight • Monument
There was a difference of opinion as to where the Memorial should be located and the people subscribing to it were asked to choose between a site on the Derry next to the village pump and sign-post and the site opposite what we now call the Old Post Office.
The location chosen, away from the hustle and bustle of the Derry, on the piece of land opposite the Old Post Office near to the entrance to the road to the Church allowed people to stand to read the names and contemplate the sacrifice made in peaceful surroundings.
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Tips from the Community
The church isn't level inside! It's well worth popping in. The VE Day memorial is very well done and worth a closer look.
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This church was one of the few buildings of stature that escaped destruction during the bombing raids of the second world war. It was not simply a lucky escape, however.... the vicar, Canon Graham Clitheroe, and a team of dedicated fire-fighters bravely averted the danger from the falling incendiaries during the heaviest raid on November 14th 1940. (https://www.historiccoventry.co.uk/tour/content.php?pg=trinity-ch)
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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.
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What a memorable place to remind us all onthe value of peace. And well done integration of the new church next to the remainders of the cathedral. On the downside: the amusement park like atmosphere in the cathedral ruins with e.g. an ice cream truck does not really honor the memory in my view.
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This church in Coventry was not dedicated to one of the many people we venerate as saints, but rather the ONE God in THREE persons - God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ) and God's Holy Spirit - was chosen as its patron saint. Father Reinhard Körner writes about the mystery of the Holy Trinity: "Among the great prayer-givers in the history of Christianity... I found prayer texts in which each of the divine three was explicitly addressed - in the same prayer. When I tried to repeat the texts, I could sense that these people had not only had God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit in mind individually - they were addressing a divine community. And it seemed to me that they could only do this in their written prayers because they did so otherwise, quietly in their hearts."
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This former church in Coventry was dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The name (from the Hebrew language) means "Who is like God?" He is often depicted - in paintings or as a statue - with a flaming sword, occasionally with a lance. Michael is - together with Raphael and Gabriel, and occasionally Uriel is also included - one of the three or four archangels who (according to human belief) occupy the highest rank in the heavenly hierarchy of angelic beings. Their common feast day in the calendar of saints is September 29th.
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The church dates from the 12th century and is the only Medieval church in Coventry that is still complete. It is 59 metres (194 ft) long and has a spire 72 metres (236 ft) high, one of the tallest non-cathedral spires in the UK. The church was restored in 1665–1668, and the tower was recased in 1826 by Thomas Rickman. The east end was rebuilt in 1786 and the west front by Richard Charles Hussey in 1843. The inside of the church was restored by George Gilbert Scott in 1854. WIKIPEDIA
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in and around Withybrook?
Withybrook is rich in history. You can explore the well-preserved earthworks and buried remains of a medieval settlement within the village, offering insights into its past. Additionally, the 14th-century All Saints' Church is a significant landmark. Nearby, the deserted medieval village of Hopsford provides another historical point of interest. Further afield, consider visiting the Ruins of Coventry Cathedral (St Michael's Cathedral), a poignant memorial, or the complete Holy Trinity Church, Coventry, which dates from the 12th century.
Are there any family-friendly attractions near Withybrook?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop) is a great spot for a family outing, where you can watch canal boats and enjoy the canalside atmosphere. The Ruins of Coventry Cathedral and Holy Trinity Church, Coventry also welcome families, offering educational insights into history and architecture.
What natural features or landscapes can I expect to see in the Withybrook area?
Withybrook is nestled in a valley, with a small brook, a tributary of the River Sowe, traversing the village. While not dramatic, this contributes to its rural charm and offers pleasant, gentle landscapes for walks. The surrounding area features open fields and a tranquil countryside setting.
Where can I find pubs or cafes in Withybrook village?
Within Withybrook village, you'll find The Pheasant, a traditional pub that serves as a local gathering spot and offers a taste of local hospitality. For other amenities, you might need to explore nearby villages or towns.
What outdoor activities, like running or cycling, are available near Withybrook?
The area around Withybrook offers various outdoor activities. For running, you can explore routes like the "Brinklow Castle – Quiet Stretch with Pheasants loop" or the "Oxford Canal Stone Bridge – Ansty Embankment, Oxford Canal loop." Cyclists can enjoy road cycling routes such as the "Smooth, Fast, and Quiet Road – Denbigh Arms loop." Mountain biking trails are also available, including the "Pond in Brandon Wood – Old Ice House in Brandon Woods loop." You can find more details and routes on the respective guide pages for Running Trails around Withybrook, Road Cycling Routes around Withybrook, and MTB Trails around Withybrook.
Are there any significant waterways or canal networks to visit?
Absolutely. A short distance from Withybrook is the Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop). This important link in England's canal network is where the Oxford Canal meets the Coventry Canal, and it has been a significant waterway for approximately 200 years. It's also home to the historic Greyhound Inn.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Withybrook?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and tranquil rural settings. Highlights like the Hawkesbury Canal Junction are loved for their historical significance and the opportunity for canalside pub meals. The Ruins of Coventry Cathedral are often described as a memorable place for reflection and a reminder of the value of peace. The local churches, such as St John the Baptist Church, are noted for their unique architectural features and historical details.
Can I find any war memorials or monuments in the area?
Yes, the Wolston War Memorial is a notable monument nearby. It was erected as a tribute to villagers who served in the Great War and offers a place for quiet contemplation in peaceful surroundings.
What is the best time of year to visit Withybrook for walks and attractions?
The best time to visit Withybrook for walks and exploring attractions is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). The weather is typically milder, making outdoor activities more enjoyable, and the rural landscapes are at their most vibrant. However, historical sites and churches are accessible year-round.
Are there any easy walking routes suitable for all abilities near Withybrook?
While specific 'easy' routes for all abilities are not detailed in the provided data, the general terrain around Withybrook, being in a valley traversed by a small brook, suggests that many local paths would be relatively gentle. For specific routes, you can check the Running Trails around Withybrook guide, as many running routes can also be enjoyed as walks, and some cycling routes are rated as 'easy' for difficulty.
Are dogs allowed on trails and at attractions near Withybrook?
While specific dog policies for every trail and attraction are not provided, generally, dogs on leads are welcome on public footpaths and in many rural areas. For specific attractions like pubs, it's advisable to check directly. The Hawkesbury Canal Junction area is typically dog-friendly for walks along the towpaths.
What kind of religious buildings can I visit?
You can visit several significant religious buildings. Within Withybrook, the historic All Saints' Church dates back to the 14th century. Nearby, St John the Baptist Church, rebuilt around the end of the 15th century, features a chancel, nave, and a west tower. In Coventry, the Ruins of Coventry Cathedral offer a powerful historical experience, while Holy Trinity Church stands as a complete medieval church.
Most popular attractions around Withybrook
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