There is so much to discover at Ryton Wood! Check out this wonderful woodland walk - it's perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

Ryton Wood Figure of Eight Walk

Length: 2km

Before you get started, download this leaflet to help guide you!

1. Start your walk by heading into Ryton Wood via the entrance from Ryton Pools Country Park. 
2. Check out the carved totem pole and interpretation board by the gate. 
3. Head towards the first waymarker and continue to follow subsequent waymakers as they direct you around the Figure of Eight Trail.
4. Take a look at our carved bluebell and owl bench.
5. As you continue along the path, you will come across a feature post revealing a site of ecological or historical significance in the wood as well as acting as a reminder to pause, look and listen. Look out for the others along the trail.
6. Appreciate the carved snail bench amongst the woodland flora.
7. After the seventh waymarker, take a break at our carved hedgehog and rabbit bench and try and listen out for the drumming of the great spotted woodpecker.
8. You are now at the last set of feature posts and carved benches on the trail. Soon after, turn right at the tenth waymarker and follow the path until you reach the entrance of Ryton Wood. 
9. Before heading back to Ryton Pools Country Park Visitor Centre, take a detour to your left at the junction to visit the sculptures of a Straight-tusked elephant adult and calf nearby the sand martin hotel. These reflect important paleontological finds made on site during quarrying. 

Why not take a picture and tag @ExploreDunsmore !

What might you spot at Ryton Wood?

For bug-lovers there is plenty of variety to be found in the wood plus its one of the best sites for butterflies in Warwickshire. Species to be seen include white admiral, purple hairstreak and silver-washed fritillary. Regular recordings of moths have recognised an impressive 570 species, of which four are nationally scarce.

Accessibility

 Paths are wide and mostly flat, but please note they can be wet and muddy in places. Not ideal for a pushchair or wheelchair. 

Dogs

Dogs are permitted on a lead.

Parking at Ryton Wood

• If you're a member, you can use the car park through the padlocked gate on the track off A423 Oxford Road.
• Alternatively, you can park at Ryton Pools Country Park - just follow the signs to Ryton Wood!