When I moved here in 1995, I didn’t know a soul. Walking on Newbold changed all that.
I had to move out of rented accommodation in Solihull and at the time, Leamington was an affordable place to buy. I arrived here with my first dog, Jerry, and I have to say, the first few months were pretty miserable for us both. Someone asked me if I’d walked at Newbold – I hadn’t – they told me where it was, and we went off exploring.
I couldn’t believe how big it was
I’d cross the playing fields, walk through the woods into the Flying Field and go into Pedley’s Wood. At that time, the big nature reserve behind Pedley’s Wood wasn’t closed off to the public, so we could walk all the way round the huge lake wildlife watching – it was full of herons, geese and ducks.
I was new to Leamington and the Comyn was a lifesaver for me
I’d left a rented farmhouse set on over 400 acres and moved into a two-bedroom terraced house. Both Jerry and I were depressed at the lack of space so exploring Newbold Comyn was just what we needed. And dog owners are sociable people so I started to make friends, some of which have lasted all these years. It’s not just dog walkers either – it’s just a great place for everyone.
The Comyn has space for us all
I always have rescue dogs and sometimes walking with a group of people isn’t right for them but the Comyn is big enough to give your dog the freedom it needs, even if it’s fearful or shy.
Over the years, I’ve brought all my rescue dogs here to train, play and have fun. It’s often where I’m most comfortable letting them off the lead for the first time because there’s no traffic, no livestock, and lots and lots of space for them to cut loose and run without bothering anyone else.
