Welcombe Hills and Clopton Park

Welcombe Hills and Clopton Park rises on the northern edge of Stratford-upon-Avon, where 60 hectares of grassland, woodland and wildflower meadows managed by Warwickshire Wildlife Trust create a surprisingly varied landscape above the Avon Valley. The 4.8 km circuit climbs through hay meadows cut in summer to open hilltop with views across the valley, then drops into enclosed woodland trails before crossing scrubby sections where brimstone butterflies and ground-nesting birds thrive. The 119 metres of climbing is gentle but gives the walk genuine elevation and a sense of leaving the town behind. The combination of hilltop exposure, sheltered woodland and flower-rich meadow within a compact space makes this one of the most rewarding short walks near Stratford.

This dog friendly walk offers moderate off-lead potential, though leads are sensible through the meadow sections where livestock may be grazing and where ground-nesting birds are vulnerable during breeding season. The grassland sections allow dogs to run with clear sightlines when stock-free, while the woodland provides shade and richer scent interest from leaf litter, bark and undergrowth. The wildflower meadows carry aromatic scent in summer — knapweed, oxeye daisy, bird's-foot trefoil — that adds a distinctive layer to the walk. The terrain suits dogs of all fitness levels, and the proximity to Stratford-upon-Avon means dog-friendly pubs and cafes are minutes away for post-walk refreshment.