Forest bathing at Crackley Wood

Crackley Wood is a 14-hectare ancient woodland and Local Nature Reserve just north of Kenilworth, off the A429. It is mainly oak with silver birch, ash and beech, plus some introduced sweet chestnut, sycamore and conifers. It was coppiced until the last century. The acid soils suit foxglove, wood sage and bracken, and the damp corners have golden-saxifrage. Being so close to town, it is an easy place for a short, unhurried walk.

There are several parking spots along Crackley Lane. A flat circular path runs round the reserve, with shadier paths and open glades inside it, so you can choose between steady going and a slower wander. The bluebells are at their best in May, alongside wood anemones and dog-violets, and autumn brings plenty of fungi. Kenilworth Common is about a mile away if you want to extend the walk. Dogs are welcome under effective control. There are no facilities on site.