Henley In Arden, Warwickshire

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11 May 2010

From its medieval origins, Henley today is a vibrant town full of interesting places to visit, shop, eat and drink.

Its bustling High Street offers a unique combination of independent and specialist traders selling an array of wares, from antiques to clothes, as well as a fine range of restaurants, pubs and cafes, art galleries and historic landmarks.

Magnificent views of the stunning Arden countryside can be seen from the historic Mount, originally the site of the Norman Beaudesert Castle, built in the 11th century. The Mount is now beautiful open countryside overlooking this enchanting town, which is also an ideal base for those who love a ramble to explore the Heart of England Way and Arden Way walks.

Henley is bursting with history, from its 15th-century Market Cross - one of the few remaining in Warwickshire - to the Guild Hall. The hall is a half-timbered Elizabethan building filled with splendid furnishings - some dating back to 1667 - and meetings of the ancient Court Leet and Court Baron are still held there.

The town’s two churches - St John the Baptist and St Nicholas' - are also sites of great historical interest. St John’s dates from the 15th century and its tower was constructed before 1460, while St Nicholas is a Norman church dating back to 1170 and includes some fine examples of Norman architecture.

One of the town’s oldest buildings now houses the Heritage and Visitor, where visitors can delve into the history of the town from its medieval origins, through the world wars to the present day.

Built in the 14th century, it now contains fascinating displays including Channel 4s Time Team visit to the Mount, unexploded bombs dropped on the town during World War II and the story of Henley’s famous ice cream.

Henley has regular bus and train services and is easily accessible from the M40 and M42 motorway network.

For more information about the area visit www.solihullobserver.co.uk

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