Attractions and Places To See around Barston - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Barston, Warwickshire, offer a blend of historical landmarks and natural features. This area, situated near Solihull, is characterized by its rich history, including ancient castles and significant memorials. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from cultural heritage points to scenic lakes. The region provides diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and historical discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Barston
- The most popular attractions is Kenilworth Castle, a castle that features…
Last updated: August 2, 2026
Kenilworth Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
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National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden
Highlight • Monument
In 1914, cycling was incredibly popular in the UK. During the war, the British army included a …
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The Bear Inn, Berkswell
Highlight • Pub
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Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes
Highlight • Lake
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St John the Baptist Church, Berkswell
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tips from the Community
The area surrounding Castle Green offers picturesque views of the castle ruins and a greenery for visitors interested in England's rich history and architecture
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Robert Langham (C16) - "The Castle has the name of Killingwoorth, but if truth grounded upon faithful story, Kenelwoorth [Kenilworth]. It stands in Warwickshire, a 74 mile North-West from London, and as it were in the navel of England, four mile somewhat South from Coventry a proper city, and a like distance from Warwick, a fair Shire town on the North. In air sweet and wholesome, raised on an easy-mounted hill, is set evenly coasted with the front straight into the East, has the tenants and town about it, that pleasantly shifts from dale to hill, sundry wherewith sweet springs burst forth; and is so plentiful and well sorted on every side into arable, meadow, pasture, wood, water, and good air, as it appears to have need of nothing that may pertain to living or pleasure."
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Although much of it is still in ruins, it is definitely worth the visit, very accessible from the centre and with a good car park (paid) next to it. The castle, which was built between the beginning of Norman rule in England and the Tudor period, played a significant role in history.
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An odd looking church quite low and spread instead of tall and imposing
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Imposing monument, set in a charming village green with benches. Shops nearby.
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Closed up nothing really to see apart from the building
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Barston?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Kenilworth Castle offers historical exploration and often hosts themed days and re-enactments. The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden is an interesting historical monument, and the Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes provides a scenic setting for outdoor enjoyment.
What historical sites can I visit near Barston?
The area is rich in history. You can explore the impressive Kenilworth Castle, a 12th-century Norman keep that was once a semi-royal palace. The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden commemorates cyclists from the World Wars. Additionally, St John the Baptist Church, Berkswell is a beautiful Norman parish church with a notable crypt.
What natural features can I see around Barston?
The Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes offers a significant natural feature. These three lakes were constructed in the 1820s to supply water to the Stratford upon Avon canal and provide a scenic environment.
Are there any wheelchair accessible attractions in the Barston area?
The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden is noted as being wheelchair accessible, offering an opportunity to visit this historical monument.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The Barston area is great for cycling. You can find various routes for touring bicycles, road cycling, and gravel biking. For touring, explore routes like the 'Packwood House – Wedge Bakery loop' or 'Meriden Pond – Berkswell Village loop'. Road cyclists might enjoy the 'Fleur de Lys Pub, Lowsonford – Packwood House loop'. Gravel biking options include the 'Kenilworth Castle – Kenilworth Greenway loop'. More details on these routes can be found in the Cycling around Barston, Road Cycling Routes around Barston, and Gravel biking around Barston guides.
Where can I find a pub near walking routes in the Barston area?
The Bear Inn, Berkswell is a 16th-century pub located in Berkswell, a village with historical sites like St. John the Baptist Church and the Berks Well, making it a good stop after exploring the local area.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Barston?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. For instance, Kenilworth Castle is praised for its impressive Norman keep and historical significance, with many enjoying the themed events. The Earlswood Lakes are valued for their scenic views and historical context related to the canal system.
Are there any unique historical facts about the attractions?
Yes, the National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden, an obelisk, was built using donations from cyclists nationwide and unveiled in 1921 to honor cyclist troops from World War I, with a bronze plaque added later for World War II. It's located at what was considered the center of the country. Also, the Earlswood Lakes were constructed in the 1820s, with labor including prisoners of war from the Napoleonic wars.
Can I find any Grade I or Grade II listed buildings in the area?
Yes, St John the Baptist Church, Berkswell is a Grade I-listed Norman parish church. Additionally, the engine house at Earlswood Lakes is a Grade II listed building, notable for its historical connection to the canal's water supply.
Are there any specific cycling routes that pass by historical sites?
Yes, the 'Kenilworth Castle – Kenilworth Greenway loop' is a moderate gravel biking route that passes by Kenilworth Castle. You can find more details in the Gravel biking around Barston guide.
What is the history behind the Earlswood Lakes?
The Earlswood Lakes were constructed in the 1820s over nearly five years to supply water to the Stratford upon Avon canal. The labor force included prisoners of war from the Napoleonic wars. The engine house, now Grade II listed, originally housed a beam engine to pump water to the feeder river.
What is the significance of the National Cyclists' Memorial?
The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden is a 32-ton Cornish Granite-faced obelisk built in 1920 to commemorate cyclist troops killed during World War I, with a later addition for World War II. It stands as a tribute to the significant role cyclists played in the wars and is located at what was considered the geographical center of the country.
Most popular attractions around Barston
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