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.
Everything you need to know about faith marriages this wedding season
Thousands of couples will say their vows this wedding season believing they're legally married, only to discover, when it matters most, that they might not be. Faith marriages are an increasingly complex issue for UK couples, with leading law firm Mills & Reeve seeing a steady rise in clients who discover – often much later – that their wedding does not carry the legal status they assumed. Jane Ingleby, partner at Mills & Reeve, explains why so many marriages fall into a legal grey area, and what couples should check before they walk down the aisle...
READ ARTICLE
Penrhos Spirits and Oddbox launch Wonky Apple and Fennel Gin for the ultimate summer spritz
Herefordshire-based Penrhos Spirits has partnered with Oddbox to launch a new limited-edition summer gin created for spritz season: Wonky Apple and Fennel Gin with a squeeze of Lemon. Crafted using rescued British apples, fennel and lemons, the release continues a successful collaboration between Penrhos Spirits and Oddbox, following two previous sell-out editions. Designed specifically for the growing UK spritz trend, the gin balances crisp apple sweetness, aromatic fennel and bright citrus for a refreshing aperitif-style serve. The signature Wonky Spritz combines the gin with sparkling wine and soda, garnished with fresh fruit and herbs. The limited-edition release launches on 5th June 2026 via Penrhos Spirits and Oddbox online, with sampling at Battersea Park on 28th May.
READ ARTICLE
Bridal Showers Are Becoming the Biggest Pre-Wedding Trend of 2026
Not sure where to start? Don't worry - experts at Abbott Lyon have put together simple steps to help you plan the perfect bridal shower, so everything runs smoothly and the bride (and her besties) can enjoy every moment of the day. You know the bride better than anyone - after all, she's asked you to be a big part of her big day. Think about what her vibe is and what she's into. Is she more about getting pampered at a spa day or would she prefer a wild brunch somewhere? Also, think about who's coming to the bridal shower. Will her older relatives be there or will it be mainly her friends? Are work colleagues coming? You want to make sure anything you plan is appropriate for everyone to enjoy.
READ ARTICLE
5 Tips to planning a perfect hen weekend in the UK revealed
61% of pre-wedding parties now stay in the UK as safety, cost, and connection reshape how Brits celebrate. Rising airfares, safety worries and global tensions, including travel hesitancy linked to the ongoing conflict, have fuelled a dramatic turn in how Brits celebrate before tying the knot. According to new figures, 61% of hen parties now take place in the UK, marking a clear shift from pre-pandemic years when city breaks in Europe dominated.
