Within Warwickshire

Edge Hill, Battlefield & Upton House

A fascinating route skirting the borders of Warwickshire and Oxfordshire. It features quintessential English countryside, several historic sites, and the chance to view paintings by Canaletto and Hogarth at the National Trust’s Upton House. Passing ancient woodland with views across the two counties, the route overlooks Edgehill Battlefield, site of one of the English Civil War’s bloodiest encounters. Cottage charms of the sandstone villages of Hornton and Ratley offer quite a contrast.

General overview of route (please click ‘Download Trail here’ at the bottom of the page for full direction details and distances before setting out): 

1. The walk starts at the National Trust’s Upton House, 7 miles northwest of Banbury. Visit the property before or after your walk and enjoy refreshments in the cafe. 

2. Look down the long driveway to the magnificent mansion, built in 1695. It houses an outstanding collection of art including works by Canaletto, El Greco and Hogarth.

3. From the car park, the path passes fields before a short stretch along the A422.

4. Note careful navigation in the section through the woods to Ratley. The next stretch is waymarked as both the Centenary and Macmillan Ways. Walking along Edge Hill ridge, you pass through ancient woodland. From the breaks in the trees take in the views over the plain below.

5. Here in 1642 the English Civil War’s first major conflict, the Battle of Edgehill, took place with 12,000 men per side. Some 1,500 were killed and hundreds left wounded.

6. Leaving the woods, the route comes into Ratley where you’ll find a fine church, attractive cottages and a pub.

7. Crossing fields, the route turns back into Hornton with its pretty cottages. 

8. The last leg finishes along another stretch of the A422, before coming back to the car park and the facilities of Upton House.