New interactive town trail uncovering stories of Warwick’s past launched for the summer
Residents and visitors are being invited to uncover stories from Warwick’s past through a free interactive town trail this summer.
Warwickshire County Council’s Heritage and Culture Warwickshire team has launched the ‘Through the Shop Window’ Trail, which invites participants to explore Warwick’s streets and shop windows while uncovering the stories of the businesses that once served the town – and Warwick Castle – during the Victorian era and beyond.
From a local baker who supplied bread for a castle elephant to a Warwick butcher renowned for providing sausages for the Earl of Warwick’s breakfast, the trail reveals stories drawn from the Warwick Castle archives.
Visitors will discover the people, businesses and trades that helped shape the town during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The trail connects shops, streets and gardens using window displays, maps and QR codes to reveal hidden links between the town and the Castle.
Cllr Darren Cheshire, Warwickshire County Council’s portfolio holder for environment, heritage and culture, said: “The ‘Through the Shop Window’ Trail brings local history to life in a fun and accessible way for families to do something together.
“We hope also that it enhances the experience for visitors and encourages them to come again to our historic town.
“We are very grateful to Warwick Town Council and The Friends of the County Record Office for their support with this project.”
The trail runs until August 29 and free maps are available from the Market Hall Museum, Warwick Tourist Information Centre and participating shops.
Completed trail maps can be stamped at the Tourist Information Centre.
Visitors are also encouraged to explore the ‘Warwick Castle Unboxed’ exhibition at Market Hall Museum.