The Christmas break is a ideal time to get out there and enjoy local countryside. After recent storms the forecast is reasonable and with decent shoes or wellies the outdoors awaits!
In town
Local parks and green spaces provide a welcome breather from shopping and eating. We love strolling in Jephson Gardens, Leamington, St Nicholas park, Warwick, Abbey Fields in Kenilworth or by the river at Stratford on Avon. Even now in winter there is plenty to see, bulbs starting to emerge, winter blossoms and even some hardy cyclamen and pansies
Countryside
Warwickshire is full of paths and walks to suit all preferences. When we get the chance to get out there we use the OS app to plan walking or cycling routes. Some of our favourites are Stratford Greenway, and Burton Dassett country park, along with local National trust gardens that are open throughout most of the Christmas period.
Although much of the countryside is dormant, there are still plenty of birds and wildlife active. As food is more scarce there is a greater chance of seeing hunting birds such as buzzards and red kites as well as crows and magpies as they search for prey or carrion.
If, when you get out there, if you spot a plant you would like to have in your garden, take a photo on your phone. Most smart phones have built in plant identification software, so you can decide if it will be the perfect addition to your garden, and if not you have a nice photo to look at!
Last minute gifts
If you are still unsure what to get someone for Christmas, you don’t have to get out there and brave the shops, there are plenty of green gift ideas that can be organised from home, check out our blog from this time last year on last minute gifting.
However you celebrate this time and the turn of year, Chopwell wish you joy, health and happiness and great start to 2026!
