Atherstone is a market town in the north of Warwickshire.

Understand

Atherstone had a population of 9,200 in 2021, and the wider built-up area, including Mancetter, had a population of 11,300. The town's history dates back to Roman times. It was famous for its hatting industry in the 16th century. The Atherstone Ball Game has taken place on Shrove Tuesday in the town for more than 800 years, and has a reputation as a complete free-for-all.

Get in

Atherstone is just off the A5. It can be reached by car or by train or bus, with both trains and buses in accessible locations. The 48 bus is the quickest way from Nuneaton to Atherstone.

Get around

There are regular buses with signposted stops in the town and several taxi services.

Do

• Atherstone Ball Game, Long Street. Shrove Tuesday 3-5PM (date varies in late Feb-early Mar). This medieval football match, a free-for-all in the town's main street, was held annually from 1199 to 2020, and cancelled in 2021 for the first time, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It has held again since 2022. (updated Mar 2024)

Buy

The town's shopping is limited, consisting mainly of charity shops on Long Street, the town's main shopping street.

Eat

Long Street has several chip shops.

• The Fish Inn, 62 Long Street. Great fish or chicken and chips, burgers, etc. (updated Jul 2021)

Drink

There are several pubs.

Sleep

• The Atherstone Red Lion Hotel, 99 Long St, Atherstone CV9 1BB, ☏ +44 1827 713156. (updated Jul 2021)

Go next

• Nuneaton
• Tamworth