THE BIRTHPLACE OF THE GAME
Visitor Guide
ENJOY RUGBY
2015/16
AND WARWICKSHIRE
W W W. E N J OY R U G B Y.CO.U K
www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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W E LCO M E Rugby holds the unique position as the birthplace of rugby football and, as you would expect, many of our attractions stir the passions of any sporting enthusiast. Delve deeper and you’ll discover how this bustling market town influenced the world with its sporting history, literary heritage and scientific legacy. This guide will give you a taste of what this largely undiscovered and beautiful area has on offer for everyone. The initial pages transport you through our town’s heritage, its unique and proud position in the game of Rugby, introducing fascinating characters, events and buildings – some that will surprise and delight; some that have helped to shape the modern world. Events, arts and culture, attractions, food and drink, the Rugby Real Ale Trail, shopping and accommodation all feature. The guide is packed full of ideas to help you plan your time in and around Rugby in what is a very special year for the town and borough.
We look forward to welcoming you in this special year!
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www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
CO N T E N TS Heritage....................................................................... 4 Home of the Game................................................... 6 Visiting Rugby............................................................ 8 Events.........................................................................10 Rugby Art Gallery & Museum............................12 Places to Explore.....................................................14 Visitor Attractions..................................................16 Rugby Visitor Centre..............................................18
Rugby Proud Home Fanzone Local Games Host Cities Food and Drink........................................................20 Rugby Real Ale Trail................................................22 Shopping and Markets..........................................24 Where to stay...........................................................28 Prize Draw.................................................................38 Map.............................................................................39 How to find us.........................................................40
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H E R I TA G E
Discover Rugby at the Heart of England At its formation, the settlement had just 19 inhabitants. Known later as ‘Rokeby’, it wasn’t until the 18th century that ‘Rugby’ came into being. The growth of the town owes much to transport developments; first the Roman Watling Street, later the 18th century Oxford Canal and, most significantly, the coming of the railway. Today in this modern and vibrant market town, reminders of the past can be seen in its beautiful buildings, parks, roads, canals and its once grandiose railway station. The glorious buildings of Rugby School stand majestically at the top of High Street and add a hint of fantasy to contemporary surroundings. Guided tours of the school run throughout the year and here, amongst the laptop clutching modern day students, you’ll experience the atmospheric visions of boisterous schoolboy mythology from the days of ‘Tom Brown’s Schooldays’; the stricken poets of both World Wars; and the spirit that inspired Baron de Coubertin, founder of the modern day Olympics. While soaking up the sights and sounds of our historic buildings, nooks, crannies and busy market streets, give in to the temptation offered by our wide variety of restaurants, cafés, bars and, of course, our traditional pubs serving some great real ales.
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Rupert Brooke
Sir Frank Whittle
Dennis Gabor
Guy Fawkes
Rupert Brooke is a famous Rugby son, born in Hillmorton Road in 1887. His father was a housemaster at Rugby School and it was whilst attending the school that Brooke began writing in earnest. Today a commemorative statue can be seen in Jubilee Gardens, along with an information panel outlining his brief but highly influential life.
Born and bred in Warwickshire, one of Rugby’s greatest inventors was Sir Frank Whittle, ‘father of the jet engine’. Whittle was part of the design team who rented office space at Brownsover Hall, Rugby. Experiments soon began at British Thomson-Houston in Rugby and when the first jet engine, built to Whittle’s design, ran on a test bed on 12th April 1937, history was made. Whittle had produced the prototype for the engines that made worldwide air travel available to everyone.
Rugby is also famous for being the home of the hologram. After fleeing Nazi Germany in the 1930s, Hungarian born scientist Dennis Gabor invented holography whilst working at British Thomson-Houston in Rugby in 1947. Holograms have since been developed for use in a multitude of consumer items such as credit cards, cosmetics, CDs, mobile phones and clothes. Visitors can still see the house in Rugby where Dennis Gabor lived.
‘Please to remember the fifth of November’. The first line of this traditional verse dates from the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, which sought to blow up the Parliament and the King. Links with the area are notably in Dunchurch at Guy Fawkes House (then the Lion Inn), where the conspirators met to await the news that Westminster had been destroyed. When Guy Fawkes was instead arrested, the plan to seize Princess Elizabeth from her nearby Coombe Abbey home was abandoned and the conspirators fled, defeated.
Rugby has links to other literary giants including Arthur Ransome (Swallows and Amazons), Salman Rushdie (Midnight’s Children), Richard Grant (Poet Laureate and ‘Dreadlock Alien’) and Charles L. Dodgson, better known as Lewis Carroll, author of arguably the world’s favourite children’s book - Alice in Wonderland.
H E R I TA G E
Some interesting characters
The Soldier If I should die, think only this of me; That there’s some cor ner of a foreign field ... That is for eve r England. There shall be, In tha t rich earth a richer dust concealed ; A dust whom England bore, shape d, made aware, Gave, once, her flowe rs to love, her ways to roam, A bo dy of England’s breathing English air , Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home. And think, this heart , all evil shed away, A pulse in the eternal mind, no less; Gives somew here back the thoughts by England given; Her sights and sound s; dreams happy as her day; And laugh ter, learnt of friends; and gentlen ess, In hearts at peace, under an Engli sh heaven. Rupert Brooke 1887
–1915
oll Lewis Carr Denis Gabor
Author Lewis Carroll attended Rugby School. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the publication of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.
Rupert Brooke
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HOME OF THE GAME
Millions of fans, hundreds of players, dozens of matches – only one home... Until you’ve been to Rugby, it’s hard to imagine that the worldwide renowned sport of rugby football took its name from our bustling market town. When you’re here however, standing on the hallowed ground where the global game began, the atmospheric surroundings of Rugby School will transport you back to the day in 1823, when the actions of schoolboy William Webb Ellis changed the game forever. If you’re a true fan of the game, a trip to Rugby can become a pilgrimage as you find yourself delving into the origins of the sport, the history of the players and the uniqueness of the town’s connections. This will be an experience you’ll treasure throughout life; after all, where else on earth can you stand on the spot where a worldwide phenomenon was born?
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The Webb Ellis legacy
Pigs bladders
A rich collection
Until Webb Ellis’s definitive act, the game of football had included handling the ball but no-one had been permitted to hold it and run towards the opposite goal. Progress forward was by kicking, hacking and what today might be described as an enormous rolling maul involving up to 60 players. In 1820 the game was played a little like soccer but players were allowed to catch the ball and then kick it out of their hands. There were no limits to the number of players on each side, evident in 1839 when Queen Adelaide visited the school to see the School House team of 75 boys play against ‘the rest’, a team of 225!
William Gilbert, a local bootmaker, took up ball-making to supply the school. In 1842, he established the first rugby football workshop, now the Rugby Football Museum, and the building with the longest continuous connection to the game of rugby in the world. The building in which the museum is housed has been at the centre of rugby ball manufacturing for over 160 years, beginning a tradition of rugby football manufacture that is carried on by Webb Ellis Ltd to this day.
Established in the 1980s and redeveloped in 2009, the museum also houses a rich collection of international rugby memorabilia and artefacts gathered over the last 160 years. For a fascinating insight into the ball, the building and the birth of the game, the Rugby Football Museum is a must.
In 1871, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) was formed, largely of Old Rugbeians, and the first national code was introduced. Rugby School was the only team to play in white, and the reason England play in white is that the first committee of the RFU was composed largely of Old Rugbeians.
HOME OF THE GAME
The Home of Rugby Football
The ball was originally round, rather than the oval of today, and changed shape over a period of time as the game changed from a predominantly kicking one to a handling one. The shape of the ball was originally determined by the pig’s bladder used for the inside. A rather shrivelled 130-year-old ball was recently discovered in a blocked-up chimney behind the wooden panels of Old Big School, still containing the remnants of the original rubber bladder. Rugby School was the only team to play in white, and the reason England play in white is that the committee of the RFU in 1871 was composed largely of Old Rugbeians.
Did you know? www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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VISITING RUGBY
Some ideas for your visit There is plenty to see and do in Rugby so make sure you allow time to discover its many unique treasures – all are very accessible and easily explored on foot. We have highlighted here just a few ideas for your visit – all of which will give you a fantastic feel, taste and experience for this very special town!
You can take a trip to ‘The Close’ at Rugby School, the hallowed turf where it all began – the day William Webb Ellis turned a game of football into a game of rugby football.
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www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
VISITING RUGBY
Rugby Theatre www.rugbytheatre.co.uk
Rugby School www.rugbyschool.net/commercial
Rugby Art Gallery and Museum www.ragm.org.uk
The Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum www.enjoyrugby.co.uk Rugby Real Ale Trail www.camra.org.uk
The Pathway of Fame www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
Rugby’s Flower, Cake and Cultural Trail www.rugby.gov.uk www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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EVENTS
So much going on... Whatever your age, interest or passion we have it covered with an action packed annual programme of events and activities that caters for everyone. Many are FREE and offer great family entertainment, both indoor and out, so whether you like food, music, real ales, theatre, the arts, boats, fireworks or motorsports we don’t think you will be disappointed – the biggest challenge will be fitting it all in!
The events displayed provide you with just a taster of what is happening. For a full listing and further information please visit www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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Rugby Festival of Culture 26 June to 12 July 2015 www.rugbyfestivalofculture.co.uk
EVENTS
British Grand Prix 3–5 July 2015 www.silverstone.co.uk
18 September to 31 October 2015 See centre supplement for more information
Crick Boat Show 23–25 May 2015 www.crickboatshow.com
Rugby Food & Drink Festival 24–27 September 2015 www.rugbyfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk
Rugby BikeFest 17 May 2015 www.rugbytowncentre.co.uk/bikefest www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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RUGBY ART GALLERY & MUSEUM
Rugby Art Gallery and Museum The Rugby Art Gallery and Museum is a place that inspires and engages all visitors in a relaxed and informal setting in which exploring is fun and there is plenty to see and do. It’s also FREE to visit! The Gallery plays host to a variety of changing and exciting exhibitions of contemporary and modern art, that includes textiles, painting, photography, film, ceramics and print by British and international artists. In the museum the vibrant displays tell the story of Rugby’s Roman past and our local Rugby history through fantastic objects, all donated by local people.
To find out more about our exhibitions, events and opening times please visit www.ragm.org.uk
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RUGBY ART GALLERY & MUSEUM
Children’s workshops
Innovative Art Exhibitions
Exhibitions of Archeology and Local History
Events
Adult workshops www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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PLAC ES TO EXPLOR E
Just a stone’s throw away... Within just a stone’s throw of Rugby there are some great places to visit – whatever your interest, age or passion. Whether you are looking for peace and quiet, gentle relaxation, something indoor or outdoor or perhaps more adventurous you won’t be disappointed!
The places shown provide you with just a taster. For a full listing and further information please visit www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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Garden Organic www.rytongardens.co.uk
P L AC E S TO EX P LO R E
Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk
Land Rover Experience Gaydon www.gaydon.landroverexperience.co.uk Coombe Abbey www.coventry.gov.uk
Canals www.canalrivertrust.org.uk
Draycote Water www.stwater.co.uk
Coventry Speedway www.coventrybees.co.uk www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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V I S I TO R AT TRAC TI O N S
Look what’s on our doorstep When you’re ready to venture further, you’ll discover that Rugby makes the ideal base for exploring. Less than an hour away is Stratford-upon-Avon, home of William Shakespeare, historic Warwick and Kenilworth, with two of the most magnificent castles in English history. To the south is the Cotswolds, with its classic landscape of honey coloured cottages and gentle hills with dry stone walls and grazing sheep. If you are looking for family fun, entertaining and educational days out or some great sporting adventures you won’t be disappointed – everything you could wish for and more!
Warwick Castle www.warwick-castle.com The Space Centre www.spacecentre.co.uk
The attractions shown provide you with just a taster. For a full listing and further information please visit www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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Stratford-upon-Avon www.discover-stratford.com
Conkers www.visitconkers.com
Coventry Cathedral www.coventrycathedral.org.uk Drayton Manor Theme Park www.draytonmanor.co.uk
Milton Keynes Snowdome www.snozoneuk.com
V I S I TO R AT TRAC TI O N S
Heritage Motor Centre Museum www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk
Northampton Saints www.northamptonsaints.co.uk Leicester Tigers www.leicestertigers.com Wasps www.wasps.co.uk
Coventry Transport Museum www.transport-museum.com www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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Rugby Visitor Centre our y p u Pick nd run! gifts a
www.enjoyrugby.co.uk Tel: 01788 533217
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www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
The Rugby Visitor Centre shop offers great gift ideas, books and souvenirs of the town and sport of Rugby, along with official merchandise in this special year.
RUGBY
P RO U D H O M E THE BIRTHPL ACE OF THE GAME
www.rugbyworldcup.com
R U G BY WO R L D C U P 2015
In 2015, the Rugby World Cup comes home. When William Webb Ellis caught a football at Rugby School in 1823 and ran with it, a game was born. Now it’s a global sport, played and enjoyed by millions around the world. In 2015, rugby returns to its roots. England hosts the Rugby World Cup, with 20 teams competing for the sport’s biggest prize – the Webb Ellis Cup. The game may have changed since William Webb Ellis created history, but its heart remains in Rugby. It’s the reason thousands of rugby fans flock to Rugby each year – a pilgrimage to the birthplace of the game. Visitors can discover the origins of the game, the history of its players, and the enduring impact Rugby has on the sport which bears its name. You can take a trip to ‘The Close’ at Rugby School, the hallowed turf where it all began – the day William Webb Ellis turned a game of football into a game of rugby football. In 2015, rugby’s coming home. Come to Rugby to discover where it all began.
www.rugbyworldcup.com
R U G BY WO R L D C U P 2015
Rugby Fanzone Rugby will become one big Fanzone during Rugby World Cup 2015. Rugby will be hosting an official Fanzone for the duration of the Tournament in the Old Market Place in Rugby town centre. On match days it will come to life, screening live matches and offering food, drink, music and themed entertainment for Rugby novices, families and enthusiasts alike. Of course while in Rugby you may also wish to visit one of our outstanding real ale pubs where you can enjoy a superb variety of quality beers and ciders from local and national brewers, along with some fantastic hospitality – you may even be able to watch a game or two as well!
Pick up a copy of your full festival guide from Rugby Visitor Centre or download from www.enjoyrugby.co.uk in August 2015
www.rugbyworldcup.com
R U G BY WO R L D C U P 2015
Watch a live match locally! Why not watch a match locally. Rugby is just a stone’s throw from Milton Keynes, Leicester and Birmingham which all host matches! Get the best of both worlds by combining a visit to Rugby with a live match!
www.rugbyworldcup.com
Stadium MK, Milton Keynes
Sunday October 4 2015 KICK OFF: 14:30 Pool C, Match 27 Argentina v Tonga
Thursday October 1 2015 KICK OFF: 20:00 Pool D, Match 22 France v Canada
Tuesday October 6 2015 KICK OFF: 16:45 Pool D, Match 29 Canada v Romania
Saturday October 3 2015 KICK OFF: 14:30 Pool B, Match 24 Samoa v Japan
Sunday October 11 2015 KICK OFF: 12:00 Pool C, Match 37 Argentina v Namibia
Tuesday October 6 2015 KICK OFF: 20:00 Pool A, Match 30 Fiji v Uruguay
Villa Park, Birmingham Saturday September 26 2015 KICK OFF: 16:45 Pool B, Match 15 South Africa v Samoa Sunday September 27 2015 KICK OFF: 12:00 Pool A, Match 17 Australia v Uruguay See www.rugbyworldcup.com for more fixture information.
www.rugbyworldcup.com
R U G BY WO R L D C U P 2015
Leicester City Stadium, Leicester
H O ST C I TI E S
Birmingham www.visitbirmingham.com
Exeter www.visitexeter.com
Brighton www.visitbrighton.com
Gloucester www.thecityofgloucester.co.uk Cardiff www.VisitCardiff.com
Host Cities www.rugbyworldcup.com
Leeds www.visitleeds.co.uk
Eleven cities across England and Cardiff have been selected to host matches at Rugby World Cup 2015. Rugby, although not hosting matches, has also been designated as a host city because of its unique position in the game, making it twelve in total.
London - Wembley
Milton Keynes www.destinationmiltonkeynes.co.uk
London – Newham
www.wembleystadium.com
Newcastle www.newcastlegateshead.com
London – Richmond
VisitEngland/Diana Jarvis
Manchester www.visitmanchester.com
Rugby www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
www.rugbyworldcup.com
H O ST C I TI E S
Leicester www.visitleicester.info
www.enjoyrugby.co.uk www.rugbyworldcup.com
TM (C)RWC Ltd 1986
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FOOD AND DRINK
A taste of Rugby... Rugby offers first-class chefs, excellent local produce, great service and a world of flavours and cuisine. Rugby and its surrounding villages are home to a superb range of places to eat out, whatever your budget. The town comes alive at night so whether dressing up or dressing down, you are guaranteed vibrant and dynamic nights out in the town’s clubs, pubs, bars, cafÊs and restaurants.
For a full listing of restaurants and cafes please visit please visit www. rugbytowncentre.co.uk
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FOOD AND DRINK www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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RUGBY REAL ALE TRAIL
Rugby Real Ale Trail The real-ale pub scene in Rugby has never been better and the town is now recognised as being one of the best places in the country for real ales! We have some outstanding pubs where you can enjoy a superb variety of quality beers and ciders from local and national brewers, along with some fantastic hospitality!
See the map on the inside back page to locate the pubs or visit www.rugbycamra.org.uk for further information on the trail!
Rugby Tap www.rugbytap.co.uk Half Moon 01788 574420
RUGBY
DR
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Alexandra Arms www.alexandraarms.co.uk
Want more? The Bull www.bullrugby.co.uk
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The Lawrence Sheriff www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk
The Raglan Arms www.raglanarmsinn.co.uk
RRUUGGBBY YR ERAELA AL L A E LTER ATIRL A I L
The Merchants Inn www.merchantsinn.co.uk
Victoria Inn www.downthevic.co.uk
Rupert Brooke www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk
The Squirrel Inn 01788 544154
Did you know? Rugby CAMRA are happy to help visitors plan their Rugby real ale experience. Get in touch at www.rugbycamra.org.uk
Seven Stars www.everards.co.uk www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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SHOPPING & MARKETS
Shop in style! Relax, stroll and enjoy a unique selection of independent retailers, exclusive brands, high street stores and markets in a clean, friendly and attractive historic market town setting.
Rugby hosts an open-air market Monday, Friday and Saturday every week from 8.30am to 4pm and a Farmer’s Market the last Thursday of each month from 9am to 2pm!
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www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
SHOPPING & MARKETS www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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We’ve made Rugby town centre so much better! Cleaner, safer and friendlier. Rugby now offers you an improved, more pleasurable shopping experience. Many of your favourite high street shops, our fantastic independent stores and service, make Rugby a great town for a fantastic day’s shopping.
There’s just so much happening in Rugby town centre!.. Among our many other claims to fame we are the home of Rugby football. Why not celebrate Rugby’s heritage and culture by attending one of the festival events or visiting one of our renowned restaurants, cafés or bars. Rugby really is the place to relax with friends. Rugby offers its shoppers, visitors and residents a town full of charm and heritage. Rugby really is the place to enjoy and discover.
... discover more in Rugby! www.rugbytowncentre.co.uk 26
www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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WHERE TO STAY
A warm welcome... Finding the right place to stay is the key to an enjoyable visit. Rugby and the surrounding villages offer a variety of hotels and guesthouses, where high standards of service, courtesy and facilities can be expected throughout the year. You can choose from a sixteenth century farmhouse, or a superb Victorian mansion, to family run B&Bs and well-equipped selfcatering cottages and campsites.
For a full list of accommodation please visit www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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01455 209023 www.bw-ullesthorpecourt.co.uk The hotel is a modern country house style set amidst glorious Leicestershire countryside.
Coombe Abbey Hotel
02476 450450 www.coombeabbey.com A four star country house hotel nestling within the UK’s historical heartland of Warwickshire. Boasting 119 rooms, Coombe Abbey truly is a unique and stunning venue for weddings, conferences and special occasions.
Brandon Hall Hotel
Draycote Hotel
This Coventry hotel has 120 contemporary rooms, each with satellite TV and internet access. An indoor pool and fitness centre can be enjoyed at the Spa, and the hotel has 10 fully equipped meeting rooms, which can welcome up to 280 guests.
A modern, relaxed venue with onsite 18 hole Golf Course. We enjoy a central location, easily accessible from all Midlands motorway networks yet surrounded by the picturesque Warwickshire countryside and the beautiful Draycote Water.
Brownsover Hall Hotel
Dunchurch Park Hotel
01788 546100 www.brownsoverhall.co.uk
01788 810656 www.signaturegroup.co.uk
Brownsover Hall Hotel is a fabulous Grade II listed Victorian Gothic mansion nestling in 7 acres of woodland and gardens.
Dunchurch Park Hotel is a 19th Century Grade II listed Manor House with modern conference facilities. Situated in 72 acres of magnificent landscaped gardens which include dedicated areas for outdoor and team building activities.
Catthorpe Manor Estate
The Dun Cow
T: 01788 860599 www.catthorpemanor.co.uk
0845 1551551 vintageinn.co.uk/theduncowdunchurch
Opening Summer 2015: A magnificent country manor house hotel and function rooms, with 20 stunning bedrooms, beautiful new restaurant and thoughtfully refurbished reception rooms.
If you’re looking for some country village charm, this attractive lodge has it by the bucket-load. Offering some of the most welcoming accommodation in Warwickshire, it’s a beautiful place to sit back and relax.
02476 546000 www.mercure.com
WHERE TO STAY HOTELS
Best Western Ullesthorpe Court Hotel
01788 521800 www.draycotehotel.co.uk
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WHERE TO STAY HOTELS
Golden Lion Hotel
Olde Coach House
The Golden Lion is a friendly, familyrun 20 bedroom hotel and 16thcentury inn. It is located in the village of Easenhall, just 4 miles from Rugby and 9 miles from Coventry.
The Olde Coach House is set in the beautiful village of Ashby St Ledgers which was mentioned in the Domesday Book 1086.
Hillmorton Manor Hotel
Premier Inn Rugby North (M6 J1)
Situated on the outskirts of Rugby and set in the beautiful leafy surroundings of Hillmorton village, this 12 bedroom hotel provides guests with comfort at affordable prices.
A drop kick away from the M6, Premier Inn Rugby North (M6 Jct 1) puts you comfortably where you need to be, with free parking at the hotel, shops and local amenities nearby.
Holiday Inn Rugby/Northampton
Premier Inn Coventry East (Ansty)
A modern hotel set in its own extensive grounds. The holiday Inn Rugby/ Northampton is situated just 10 miles from Althorp. Warwick Castle, Drayton Manor Park, Twycross Zoo, Ricoh Arena and NEC are all within 40 minutes drive.
East Ansty brings you the perfect marriage of town and country. Come to think of it, East Ansty brings you the perfect marriage full stop, with everpopular wedding destinations Coombe Abbey, Ansty Hall and Ashford Lodge all within easy access.
Ibis Hotel Rugby East
Premier Inn Rugby North (Newbold)
01788 833577 www.goldenlionhotel.org
01788 570155 www.hillmortonmanor.co.uk
01788 824820 www.hirugbyhotel.co.uk
01788 824331 www.ibishotel.com
Located just off junction 18 of the M1, with easy access to local attractions in Coventry e.g. Cathedral & Transport museum. With 24/7 reception it is ideally placed for long distance travel stops.
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01788 890349 www.oldecoachhouse.co.uk
01788 220304 www.premierinn.com
0871 527 8274 www.premierinn.com
0871 5278950 www.premierinn.com
Whether you’re staying for business or leisure, we pride ourselves on making sure you have everything you need to make your stay a comfortable one.
WHERE TO STAY HOTELS
The Grosvenor Hotel
01788 535 686 www.grosvenorhotelrugby.co.uk Close to the town centre this hotel has a modern classic charm. Each bedroom is decorated to a high standard, providing all the modern amenities desired. Comfort and mod cons are combined to meet top standards.
The Carlton Hotel
01788 560211 www.thecarltonrugby.co.uk A family owned and run hotel for 28 years, providing affordable food and accommodation near to the town centre and railway station.
The Greyhound Coaching Inn 01455 553307 www.greyhoundinn.co.uk
The Greyhound Coaching Inn and Hotel is a charming and traditional 18th Century coaching inn located in the South Leicestershire town of Lutterworth.
The Rugby Hotel is a fantastically located property right in the middle of Rugby town centre. The building is steeped in history, originally being built in the early 1700s as Rugby’s first coaching inn, and has now been fully refurbished to suit the most discerning traveller. This full-service hotel is ideally positioned within easy walking distance of a great variety of shops and restaurants and is right next to the famous Rugby School. Parking is available free of charge for hotel guests. Sheep St, Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 3BX
01788 573244
www.therugbyhotel.co.uk
Travelodge Rugby Central
0871 984 6449 www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/430/ Rugby-Central-hotel the Ideal for visitors wanting accommodation with excellent travel links. Only 2 miles from the Webb Ellis Rugby Football Museum, full of fascinating memorabilia.
www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
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WHERE TO STAY HOTELS
• All-Inclusive Day & Residential Delegate 89 en-suite bedrooms Packages • 32 Training, Conference Inclusive wedding Meeting, packages from as little&as £45.00 Syndicate Rooms LicenseMarquee to host Civil Ceremonies • Mawson’s – Weddings, Business Award Dinners, Product & Car Launches, Several wedding breakfast rooms including 89 en-suite bedroom Exhibitions, Indoor Team marquee to accommodate upBuilding to 400 guests • All-Inclusive Wedding Packages from Inclusive wedding packages from a £46.25 per Private guest functions • Licensed to hold Civil Ceremonies License to host Civil Cer up to 300Birthday guests celebrations • Wedding Breakfast Dinners – up to 400; Choice from 30 meeting&rooms including rooms Several wedding breakfast roo suitable forReception product launches Theatre Style & Style up to 450 marquee to accommodate up t • Team Building - On-site Eureka! Activity Team Building and outdoor “Fun Days” Course, Motorised Fun Days, Conference Breaks andActivities, Meeting Energisers. Private functions Country Sports, Meeting Energisers • FREE Car Parking and FREE W-Fi Open to Non-Residents Birthday celebratio • Private Functions and Special Events For further information please contact the team on 01788 810 656 • Garden Rooms – FREE Room Hire & Choice from 30 meeting rooms in Optional Self Catering* www.signaturegroup.co.uk suitable forandproduct lau • 89 En-Suite Bedrooms; Beauty Rooms Rugby Road ~ Dunchurch ~ Rugby ~ Warwickshire ~ CV22 6QW Spa Treatments; Leisure Activities – Short Team Tennis Building and outdoor “ Par 3 Golf; Putting Green, Court, Conference Breaks and Meetin Croquet Lawn, Gym • Open to Non-Residents – Sunday Lunches, Bar & Bistro Snacks & CoffeesOpen to Non-Reside *subject to terms and availability
For further information please contact the team on 01788 81 For further information www.signaturegroup.co.uk please contact the team on 01788 810 656 Rugby Roadwww.signaturegroup.co.uk ~ Dunchurch ~ Rugby ~ Warwickshire ~ CV22 Rugby Road, Dunchurch, Rugby, Warwickshire CV22 6QW info@dunchurch.co.uk 32
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871 984 6099 www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/172/ Rugby-Dunchurch-hotel Located just 20 miles from Birmingham Airport and 5 miles from Rugby train station, Rugby Dunchurch Hotel is an excellent choice for visitors seeking accommodation with great travel links to a wide range of unique attractions.
The White Lion Inn
01788 832579 www.thewhitelion-inn.co.uk The White Lion Inn is a warm and friendly traditional seventeeth century coaching inn. Situated on the Fosse Way in the picturesque village of Brinklow in Warwickshire.
WHERE TO STAY HOTELS
Travelodge Rugby Dunchurch
Diamond House Hotel 28-30 Hillmorton Road, Rugby CV22 5AA Tel. 01788 572701 Fax. 01788 560354 enquiries@diamondhousehotel.co.uk
Diamond House is a privately-run guest house, offering the best in comfort and customer care. Conveniently situated on A428, just 3 minutes walk from Rugby town centre and Rugby School and in easy reach of the M1(J18), M6(J1), N.E.C., N.A.C., Silverstone, Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon. Fully licensed Ample secure private parking Privately run guest accommodation 24 hour laundering service Broadband internet connection Fax, photocopying
34 well appointed single, double, twin, triple and large family rooms all complete with: Shower/en-suite Direct dial telephones Tea/coffee making facilities Smoke detectors Automatic morning call alarm Colour television Hairdryer Central heating
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WHERE TO STAY B&BS
Hunt House Quarters
Lords Hill Farm
Hunt House Quarters, Kilsby is set in a beautiful, peaceful courtyard and is part of a magnificently restored 17th century thatched hunting lodge and covered stables.
Lords Hill Farm is situated in a quiet, rural location, just off the roman road ‘Fosse Way’.
Knaptoft House Farm & The Greenway
Marston House B&B
01788 823282 www.hunthousekilsby.com
www.knaptoft.co.uk 0116 2478 388
Farmhouse with 6 rooms Knaptoft House Farm and The Greenway offer a warm welcome throughout the year.
Marston House is a conservation village of great charm. Only two bedrooms for B&B which are large and light.
Murcott Mill Farmhouse B&B
Georgian farmhouse and converted barns in rural location two miles from Rugby offering bed and breakfast and self-catering accomodation.
An imposing Georgian Mill House set in the glorious peaceful countryside.
Barley Mow
Number 16 B&B Rugby
The Barley Mow at Newbold on Avon – a superb canal side village pub providing a great dining venue now with facilities for Boaters plus function rooms, adventure playground and en-suite accommodation.
Number Sixteen b&b is housed in a three storey, Grade 2 listed Georgian townhouse, right on the doorstep of the world famous Rugby School where the game of Rugby Football originated.
01788 544174 www.barleymow-newbold.co.uk
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01327 260297 www.ivabestbandb.co.uk
Lawford Hill Farm
01788 542001 www.lawfordhill.co.uk
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02476 544430 www.lordshillfarm.co.uk
01327 842236 bedandbreakfastnorthamptonshire.co.uk
01788 577667. www.no16bandbrugby.co.uk
01788 510503 www.shepherdsrow.co.uk
Lawford Hill Farm
Shepherds Row is situated in the attractive Northamptonshire village of West Haddon on the A428.
The Courtyard Toft House
01788 810450 www.courtyardtofthouse.co.uk Bed & Breakfast accommodation set in three acres of beautiful gardens, situated on a working farm with outstanding views over Draycote Water and open countryside.
The Old Thatched Cottage of Dunchurch 01788 810417 www.english-inns.co.uk
WHERE TO STAY B&BS
Shepherd’s Row B&B
BED & BREAKFAST AND SELF CATERING ACCOMMODATION SET IN THE OPEN COUNTRYSIDE You will find a warm welcome for bed and breakfast at our grade 11 listed Georgian farmhouse and converted stables.
Lawford Hill Farm, Lawford Heath Lane, Nr Rugby, Warwickshire, We also offer self catering in our converted barns CV23 9HG adjacent to the farmhouse, set in attractive gardens and open countryside.
Tel: +44 (0) 1788 542001
lawford.hill@talk21.com Rooms: 2 Doubles; 1 Single; 2 Twins; 1 Family Prices: Single from £45pn, Double from £37.50pppn including English Breakfast and wifi. www.lawfordhill.co.uk
THE SADDLERY
Small family run Hotel in a 16th Century Thatched Cottage full of charm and character.
Dunsmore Home Farm
01788 860168 www.dunsmorehomefarm.co.uk Farmhouse B & B in a family home with large ensuite rooms.
The Saddlery is a self-catering apartment in a quiet rural position on our working farm in the lovely village of Willoughby, near Rugby. Close to major road networks on the Warwickshire / Northamponshire borders. We are within easy reach of Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, Leamington Spa, The Cotswolds, Althorpe and Silverstone, making The Saddlery an ideal central base within the Heart of England for business or pleasure for your self-catering (holiday let) holiday.
The Saddlery, Manor Farm, Willoughby, Nr. Rugby, Warwickshire, CV23 8BY office@thesaddlery.org.uk
Tel:+44 (0) 1788 890256 www.thesaddlery.org.uk
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WHERE TO STAY SELF-CATERING
Lodge Farm
The Saddlery
Delightfully converted farm buildings in a pleasant location close to Rugby. 3 Cottages and 4 self contained studios. Let nightly or weekly. Children and controlled dogs are welcome. Open all year round.
The Saddlery is a self-catering apartment in a quiet rural position on our working farm in the lovely village of Willoughby, near Rugby.
Meadowview cottages
Toft Manor Cottage
Experience life on a working farm at Meadowview Cottages.
A double bedroomed stable conversion set in the grounds of Toft Manor amongst a prize winning herd of Toft Alpacas. Offers outstanding views across Draycote Water and beautiful walks amongst the Alpacas.
Rose Narrowboats
Willow Wren Cruising Holidays
Escape to a slower pace of life... with Rose Narrowboats. With a range of 20 self-drive boats from 2 - 20 berths available for weekly or short breaks.
We are a family owned canal boat hire company offering self-drive narrowboat holidays.
Rye Hill Country Cottages
Lawford Hill Farm
Established in 1990 our superbly equipped 4 star cottages and a studio are ideal for flexible short and longer stays to suit your requirements be they business or pleasure.
Georgian farmhouse and converted barns in rural location two miles from Rugby offering bed and breakfast and self catering accomodation.
01788 560193 www.lodgefarm.com
01327 842205 www.meadowviewcottages.co.uk
01788 832449 www.rose-narrowboats.co.uk
01604 770990 www.ryehillcottages.co.uk
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01788 890256 www.thesaddlery.org.uk
01788 810626 www.toft-alpacas.co.uk
01788 562183 www.willowwren.co.uk
01788 542001 www.lawfordhill.co.uk
01788 560193 www.lodgefarm.com
For camper vans, caravans and tents. Open from easter to October. Facilities include electric hook-ups, free hot showers, toilets and shaving points.
Untitled-9 1
Wolvey Caravan & Camping Park 01455 220493 www.wolveycaravanpark.itgo.com
A quiet family site situated on the borders of Warwickshire and Leicestershire, ideally located to explore the many places of interest in the Midlands.
06/02/2015 12:28 www.enjoyrugby.co.uk
WHERE TO STAY CAMPSITES
Lodge Farm Camp Site
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PRIZE DRAW
Complete our survey and win a weekend break for 2 at Coombe Abbey Hotel.
Includes: • Overnight stay for 2 people for 2 nights in one of our beautiful Crown Bedchambers • 3 course table d’hote dinner in the Garden Room on both nights • Full Abbey breakfast on both mornings
Where did you pick up your copy of the guide? Rugby Visitor Centre
Tourist Information Centre
Website request/download
Other (please state)....................................................................................................................................................... How long did you visit Rugby for and why? Where did you visit during your trip?
Dates subject to availability
What was your favourite section of the guide? Please explain why
Prize to be taken by 31st May 2016. Competition open to UK residents only.
Is there anything you would like to have seen in the guide? Please explain why
Prize will be drawn on December 1st 2015 and winner notified by email. Please return to Rugby Visitor Centre by hand or post to Rugby Visitor Centre, Little Elborow St, Rugby CV21 3BZ The information you provide will be kept on record at Rugby Visitor Centre and/or Rugby Art Gallery & Museum for a period of two years in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. We may occasionally include information from other Rugby Borough Council departments or related organisations that may be of interest to you.
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We hope you have enjoyed the Visitor Guide – please fill out the form below and tell us about it!
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H O W TO F I N D U S Rugby is positioned at the heart of the UK with exceptional road and rail networks. The M1, M6, M40 and A14 are minutes away and provide direct access to London, Birmingham, Leeds, the north-west, east coast and Scotland. Situated on the West Coast Mainline, rail links from Rugby are excellent, with London Euston just 50 minutes away. The modern new train station is a 10 minute walk from the town centre. TO LEICESTER
A5
Bulkington
TO LEICESTER
M69
TO BIRMINGHAM
Lutterworth
20
2
M6
A5
A426
A600
Swinford
1
A46
COVENTRY
A428
M6
A426
A14
M1
RUGBY
Baginton Coventry Airport
19
A5 A428
A45
DIRFT
18
A426
A445
11 12
M45
Crick
Kilby
17 A361
A423
A426
A45
Braunston
Ashby St Ledgers
Long Itchington Stockton
TO LONDON A425
Staverton
By Road Rugby town centre is easily accessible from junctions 18 and 20 of the M1 motorway and from junction 1 of the M6. By Train Travelling to Rugby by train is easy. There are fast, regular rail services from London, Birmingham and most major towns and cities. There is also a direct rail link to Birmingham International airport. By Air Rugby is within easy travelling distance of Birmingham International, Nottingham East Midlands and London Luton airports.
Rugby Visitor Centre 01788 533217 www.enjoyrugby.co.uk visitor.centre@rugby.gov.uk rugbyvisitorcentre
@enjoyrugby