Smith's Covert

Wood, Forest in Warwickshire Warwick

England

Smith's Covert

Grand Union Canal from Hatton top lock (No. 46) The café is on the right. — Grand Union Canal from Hatton top lock (No. 46) Credit: Chris Allen

Smith's Covert is a charming woodland located in Warwickshire, England. Spread across a vast area, this forest is a haven for nature enthusiasts and provides a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking tranquility amidst nature.

The woodland is known for its dense canopy of trees, predominantly consisting of oak, beech, and birch species. The towering trees create a lush green environment, offering shade during the summer months and a picturesque landscape throughout the year. The forest floor is adorned with a rich carpet of ferns, wildflowers, and moss, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Smith's Covert is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Common sightings include deer, foxes, badgers, and a variety of bird species such as woodpeckers, owls, and thrushes. The forest's serene atmosphere and abundant natural resources provide a safe habitat for these creatures to thrive.

The woodland offers several well-maintained walking trails that wind through the forest, allowing visitors to explore its beauty at their own pace. These trails cater to all levels of fitness and provide opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes. Along the paths, visitors can discover hidden streams, small waterfalls, and picturesque viewpoints, adding to the allure of the woodland.

Smith's Covert is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as picnicking, photography, and nature study. The forest's peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal location for individuals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Whether it's a leisurely walk or an immersive nature experience, Smith's Covert offers a truly magical woodland experience for all who visit.

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Smith's Covert Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.299121/-1.6291599 or Grid Reference SP2566. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Grand Union Canal from Hatton top lock (No. 46)

The café is on the right.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - plaque

The Transport Trust has placed a commemorative plaque on the top lock (No. 46) of the Hatton flight near Warwick.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - dry dock

Although this is by Hatton locks this is billed as Knowle Hill Wharf Dry Dock

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - Hatton locks

There are 21 locks in the flight with the top lock being No. 46 and the numbers descending from there. The closest lock here is No. 42. To the right of the lock is a former narrow lock that was replaced by the broad lock. Further to the right is a former beam engine house that was part of the maintenance yard.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - Hatton locks

Lock No. 43 seen from the bridge leading to the maintenance yard and lock offices. In the right background is a dry dock. The footbridge on the right crosses a former narrow lock.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - bridge No. 54

A concrete bridge crossing the Hatton flight of 21 broad locks. The locks were widened in concrete in the 1930s and this bridge may date to the remodelling in the 1930s.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - lock No. 44

Part of the Hatton flight of 21 locks.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - lock No. 45

One of 21 broad locks on the Hatton flight.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - lock No. 46

This is the top lock of the Hatton flight of 21 broad locks. The remains of the replaced narrow lock are to the right. The red plaque is a Transport Trust heritage marker.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - lock No. 39

Part of the Hatton flight of 21 broad locks and seen from lock No. 40. This well shows that the 1930s wide (or broad) locks can take two standard narrow boats side by side. Especially helpful when a powered boat was towing a 'butty' (an unpowered barge).

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - Hatton locks

Looking down part of the Hatton flight with lock No. 42 in the foreground.

Chris Allen

Dragonfly sculpture at Hatton

In a pond alongside the Grand Union Canal at the Hatton flight of locks.

Chris Allen

Grand Union Canal - Hatton locks

Lock No. 40 is seen in the foreground and the photographer is by lock No. 41. The Hatton flight has 21 locks and was modernised in the 1930s with the narrow locks being replaced by the broad locks that could take two narrowboats side by side. I have no idea who the random people are sitting on the balance beam.

Chris Allen