Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa has introduced new hiking holidays
Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa has introduced a series of hiking routes for guests to enjoy during their stay at this quintessentially British countryside manor hotel. Surrounded by the breathtaking countryside, hiking can be a refreshing way for visitors who value being in the outdoors to reap all the benefits from the great outdoors. Benefits from hiking include lowering blood pressure, increasing lung capacity, and improving attention spans and problem-solving skills by up to 50 per cent. Combined with Billesley Manor’s remarkable surroundings, newly-refurbished spa and array of wellness activities, guests can expect to leave their visit feeling refreshed and destressed.
Stratford upon Avon forms a striking yet relatively undiscovered part of the British countryside, with a fascinating history and a range of great walks. From a brisk walk along the banks of the River Avon to Stratford Greenway, to a leisurely amble up the Stratford upon Avon Canal, there are routes for all abilities.
Billesley Manor has recommended four hiking routes for guests to visit during their stay at Billesley Manor, just a short drive away:
The Monarch’s Way For those who want to explore the local history, guests can visit The Monarch’s Way, an incredible 615-mile walk which approximates the escape route taken by King Charles II in 1651 after being defeated in the Battle of Worcester. Following the hike, guests can sit back and relax in Billesley Manor’s newly refurbished spa and soak in all the historical learnings from the day. The Monarch’s Way is just over an hour’s drive from Billesley Manor, making it the perfect day trip.
The Bell and two Churches This hike is a 5.1km loop trail located near Stratford-upon-Avon. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 hour and 18 minutes to complete. A popular trail for running and walking, visitors can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day. The Bell and two Churches is less than 20 minutes away from Billesley Manor by car, making it the perfect hike for guests who want to explore the remarkable scenery of Stratford-upon-Avon.
Upper Quinton Circular Walk Discover this 19.5km loop trail near Stratford-upon-Avon. Considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 5 hours and 15 minutes to complete. This trail is great for birding, hiking, and walking. Upper Quinton circular walk is a pleasant countryside trail taking in a mix of sights and terrains as hikers make their way around. This includes winding through farmlands, villages, and wooded pockets between Quinton, Ebrington, and Mickleton. Hikers are likely to see wildlife including deer, birds and livestock so do keep an eye out! Less than 20 minutes away from Billesley Manor by car, Upper Quinton Circular Walk is a great way for visitors to venture out and take in the remarkable scenery that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer. Followed by a restful night’s sleep at Billesley Manor, this hike will leave guests feeling refreshed.
Stratford Greenway The Greenway is an 8km high-quality surfaced path suitable for cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users. It is part of the National Cycle Network, which also links Oxford to Derby via Birmingham. Stratford Greenway is the perfect hike for guests who prefer to perambulate the countryside rather than do strenuous exercise. With Stratford Greenway being located just over 20 minutes by car from Billesley Manor, it is the perfect hike for guests who love to explore the scenery that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer.
The philosophy of white - Pantone's Colour of the Year
White has always been more than a colour; it is the quiet space between thought and form, the light-filled pause where the eye rests and the mind find clarity. Today, in a world buzzing with distraction, white takes on renewed significance. Pantone's selection of PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer as the Colour of the Year 2026 celebrates this very essence - a lofty, aerated white that whispers calm and serenity into a frenetic society. At James Cropper, the historic British papermaker, white is not just a conceptual ideal - it is a craft, a product, and a philosophy...
READ ARTICLE
Wedding Flower Trends Set to Bloom in 2026
As couples begin planning their nuptials for the year ahead, 2026 wedding trends are already coming into bloom. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Bridgerton and regency-era romance, Lucy Hook, Floral Lead at Bloom & Wild, shares how brides and grooms can embrace these tones through their floral choices creating looks that feel understated yet refined, moving away from bold brights toward something more subtle, romantic and dreamlike.
READ ARTICLE
Windmill Village Hotel weddings in Coventry with scenic golf course views
Set within beautiful grounds in Coventry, Windmill Village Hotel provides a picturesque and versatile setting for unforgettable weddings. Offering a choice of elegant ceremony and reception spaces for celebrations of up to 240 guests, the venue caters effortlessly to both intimate gatherings and grand occasions. From the romantic Chapel Suite, a converted barn full of character, to the spacious Windmill Suite with panoramic golf course views and a private bar, each space offers its own distinctive charm. Couples can also enjoy flexible catering options, bespoke wedding packages and comfortable on-site accommodation. With scenic surroundings, attentive service and stylish spaces, Windmill Village Hotel delivers seamless wedding experiences from start to finish.
READ ARTICLE
Hen Party Trends for 2026
Hen parties in 2026 are shaping up to be even more expressive, more personal and far more adventurous than the familiar nights out of the past decade, according to hen party experts Book a Party. Brides and their friends are leaning into weekends that feel curated rather than copied. There is a clear move toward experiences that tell a story about the bride and the group. People want something that feels fresh and clever but still relaxed enough that everyone can enjoy themselves without pressure.
