24th May 2013 Canley Canter

What a rubbish day today, weatherwise. Strong winds, only 8 degrees, and no sunshine. Somebody tell the elements that it is nearly June please.

Abbey Fields Kenilworth

Decided to head towards Coventry and into the wind, that way it should be a doddle heading back home.  On the way, went through Abbey fields. This children's playground has just been completed and offers kids a much greater variety of equipment. If you haven't been yet, it is right opposite the entrance to the swimming baths.  Don't forget to take the kids though.

The old Abbey

This pile of stones is what is left of the Abbey of St Mary the Virgin. It was founded in 1119 by Geoffrey de Clinton as an Augustine priory. Unusually, Henry VI raised the status to an Abbey. Henry VII attended mass here in 1487 and 1488. A shame that all that is left are these stones although there is evidence elsewhere in the park of pillars, and other artifacts, from the old Abbey. 

St Nicholas Church

A stones throw from the site of the Abbey is St Nicholas Church. Actually in the High Street, it looks out over Abbey Fields. Probably founded about 1291, the magnificently decorated Norman Porch, at the western entrance, was removed from the old Abbey by Robert Dudley during repairs.  Queen Elizabeth I is reputed to have visited the church on at least two occasions. Even more importantly, all my kids were christened here.

Canley Ford

Left Kenilworth and battled against the wind going through the grounds of Warwick University. Out the other side is Canley and I went exploring down a little track that was signposted to Canley Ford. Barely a footpath in places, I was a bit worried about punctures with all the twigs and other bits scattered around. Well worth the effort though, because halfway down the track is the ford itself, a delightful little spot.  Carrying on, the track came out on the Kenilworth Road near to the Memorial Park.

Did 15 miles in total and in fairness the wind was not too bad, mainly because a lot of the way the hedges gave some shelter, Going back of course it was behind, a bonus.