About Warwickshire

The vegetation, species and crops grown in Warwickshire are influenced by the type of soils and these are determined by the underlying geology. The soils in Warwickshire range from light to medium silty loams, with sandy soils in the north and centre, and heavier loams in the south. The corresponding pH levels of these soils are primarily neutral, with pockets of acidity and more calcareous alkaline areas along the river Avon and limestone ridges in the south.

The County is sub-divided into nine National Character Areas (NCAs), based on landscape, geology, biodiversity, history, culture and economics. The Warwickshire Landscape Character study adds further detail to the NCAs. Many of these are brought forward into the Warwickshire LNRS.

Warwickshire’s habitats and Local Wildlife Sites (LWSs) have been systematically mapped and updated annually since 1997 by the Natural Capital Assessment Partnership. Warwickshire has 92 sites with national statutory protection including Local Nature Reserves (LNRs), Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and one Special Area of Conservation (SAC). These sites account for 1% of Warwickshire’s 197,756 hectares. Total area coverage rises to 3% when including the Local Wildlife Sites (LWS), which are of county-level importance.

Warwickshire’s central location in the Midlands sees the movement of species both northward and southward, as well as species colonising from the south-west, resulting in a significant overlap of distributions. Monitoring colonisers verses visitors can be problematic and, therefore, it is often easier to document local extinctions than to confirm the establishment of new arrivals. For example, the timeline of local extinction for 78 plant species recorded as lost from Warwickshire shows a significant increase from 1960. A similar trend can be observed amongst larger moth species

Warwickshire’s water environment is essential to nature’s recovery; yet faces serious challenges, with only one of its 72 river water bodies achieving ‘good’ ecological status according to the Water Framework Directive (2022). Warwickshire’s rivers and canals offer vital habitats and support recreation and tourism, connecting communities with nature. Water is available for abstraction, though regulated to protect river ecology during low flows, with restrictions varying by watercourse. Aquifers are under pressure, with limited capacity for further licensing, raising concerns over long-term water security, quality, and recharge. Historic modifications to watercourses contribute to flooding during heavy rainfall. Nature-based solutions are needed to restore natural water regulation.

Warwickshire is traditionally a farming county, its rich fertile soils supporting both arable and pasture farming, alongside the growing horticultural and tree nursery industries. The county champions sustainable practices that promote biodiversity and minimise environmental impact. Agriculture is central to Warwickshire’s rural economy, which spans artisanal food, hospitality, and farming businesses. Over a third of the county’s employment and economic output is based in rural areas. Ensuring nature’s recovery is vital to supporting farm diversification and maintaining both environmental value and landowners’ livelihoods.

Warwickshire’s nature is intrinsically linked to its heritage, culture and identity. From landmarks like Warwick Castle and Shakespeare’s Birthplace to designed parklands, buried settlements, battlefields, Scheduled Monuments and historic market towns, the county’s nature and history attract visitors from across the world. The rural setting, country parks, cycle routes and other outdoor experiences supports a thriving visitor economy including cultural, leisure and business tourism. Nature has played its part in creating Warwickshire’s communities yet the disconnection with biodiversity has been never greater. Nature’s recovery can only be successful if humans and nature can reconnect in a positive way to understand how wildlife and nature has shaped our lives and home.

Warwickshire is experiencing a faster growth rate than the national average; its population of around 617,823 is projected to increase to 630,394 by 2030 (Warwickshire County Council, 2023). The demographic balance is shifting, with more working-age and older residents, and fewer children. As development expands, it is vital to embed nature into place-making by protecting natural features and introducing wildlife-friendly infrastructure. Strengthening people’s connection to nature is key to supporting health, wellbeing, and sustainable growth.