Walks from Polesworth

Recommended: A very easy, level walk almost entirely along the Coventry Canal towpath, on compacted-stone towpath and pavement, with no gates or stiles. A short noisy section leaving Tamworth and then quiet side streets and open countryside. Passes the Hodge Lane Nature Reserve and Pooley Country Park (public toilets at the visitor centre). The Staffordshire–Warwickshire border is a stream crossing under the canal.

Waterway: four fifths along the Coventry Canal.

Time: 2h–4h

Lunch: A pub at Alvecote Marina, roughly midway. Pubs and shops at the Polesworth end; eateries and shops in Polesworth village.

Warnings: The road into Tamworth can be quite busy mid-afternoon. Polesworth has just one train a day.

Walk details: Slow Ways.

A direct, easy-to-follow route largely along the Coventry Canal towpath, with short, simple urban walking at both ends. The towpath is unsurfaced and a little muddy or boggy in places and especially in winter; no stiles or gates. Follows the Coventry Canal for most of its length. At Polesworth there is the option of a prettier, step-free route through Abbey Green Park via the gatehouse and footbridge. No facilities in the middle third, but plenty at both ends.

Waterway: nine tenths along the Coventry Canal.

Time: 2h–4h

Lunch: Pubs, cafes, shops and takeaways at both ends; no facilities in the middle third.

Warnings: The underpass beneath the railway at Atherstone occasionally floods (a safe, dry diversion exists). Polesworth has just one train a day.

Walk details: Slow Ways.