Things to do over the Easter break
It’s almost the end of the 2nd term and I’m certainly looking forward to the Easter break. I know it will involve lots of reading and working on my assignments; however, I still intend to have a well deserved break from studying and spend some quality time with my family. With having so many weeks off, it’s nice to have some days out planned. And, whilst most of you (like myself) will be spending the Easter break studying, it’s also worth remembering that a break away from studying gives you the chance to clear your head and recharge your batteries, and that’s very important. So, on the assumption that you might want to have a day out and go somewhere new, I thought I’d give you a few ideas and let you know about some of the different parks/nature reserves that you can visit in and around Coventry:
War Memorial Park is Coventry’s number one park, attracting around 400,000 visitors every year. The park is made up of two areas: the formal garden – with the War Memorial, and the sports areas – with playing fields, golf course, Splash ‘n’ Play park and play areas. There is also a 1.6 mile circular footpath around the park. Admission and parking is free. Also, there are two cafes in the park so you can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat. http://www.coventry.gov.uk/warmemorialpark
Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve consists of large pools, created by gravel extraction, set in 220 acres of land. When you fancy a break from walking around, you can visit the gift shop and ‘Badgers Tearoom’. In the tearoom you can watch the birds feeding whilst enjoying a cup of tea and a slice of cake. The admission charge is £2.50 for adults, £1 per child (under 4’s enter free), £1.50 concessions, £6 per family (2 Adults and up to 3 children – under 16). http://www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/reserves/brandon-marsh-sssi-nature-reserve-and-visitor-centre
Abbey Fields is a nice place to go for a walk and wile away a couple of hours. I often visit at the weekends, with my husband and daughter. We like to watch the ducks and swans on the lake. The park has an enclosed play area for youngsters, a play area for older children, a brook, a lake, walking paths, a café and a swimming pool. https://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/info/20316/abbey_fields
Kingsbury Water Park is a lovely place to spend a day. Admission is free, but car parking fees do apply (£4.50 per car; £3 after 4pm). “Kingsbury Water Park has 15 lakes situated in over 600 acres of country park. Stroll along the surfaced paths, explore hidden corners, spot birds and wildlife, hire a bike, join an organised event…Whatever your idea of a countryside visit is, you will find it at Kingsbury.” http://countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk/country-parks/kingsbury-water-park/
Ryton Pools Country Park is one of my favourite places to visit with my daughter. The paths are surfaced, so it’s easy to walk around (and wheel a pushchair). There are lakes, play areas for the kids, a visitor’s centre, picnic areas and a nice little café. The park is set on 100 acres, and the many different habitats there are home to a wide range of birds and other wildlife. http://countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk/country-parks/ryton-pools-country-park/
Draycote Water is a 650 acre reservoir in the Warwickshire countryside. There is a five mile road circling the reservoir, which is ideal for walking, running or cycling. Also, the Waterside restaurant offers good food and stunning views across the reservoir. https://visitdraycote.co.uk/welcome/about-draycote-water/
