Lapworth is a village in Warwickshire situated between Warwick and Birmingham, about 13 miles from Birmingham. It has a population of about 2000. Although there is some local employment in farming and service industries it is chiefly a commuter village for the larger surrounding towns of Coventry, Solihull and Birmingham. The village lies on the junction of two canals, the Stratford Canal, and the Grand Union Canal.

Lapworth is in green belt although that is seriously threatened by the government who seem to be putting pressure on Warwick District Council to build large numbers of houses, and the pleasure of living here is to be separate from the suburban sprawl, and so to be able to enjoy country walks from the doorstep but to be within 45 minutes or an hour’s commute of work. The millenium sign can be seen on the roadside as one enters the village on the old warwick road from the direction of Hockley heath.

Although not a twee, “chocolate box” village, of the type often associated with Warwickshire the village does boast some fine old houses, including two National Trust properties, Packwood House and Baddesley Clinton. The area around the canals is also very attractive.

The parish church of St Mary’s in the West of the parish and the Lees Memorial Chapel on Station Lane provide for the spiritual needs of the village. The needs of Catholics can be met at the Church of St Francis of Assisi in Baddeseley Clinton.

Lapworth Pre-school, a community nursery, provides care and education for young children between the ages of 2 and 4. Learning through play is encouraged and the atmosphere is relaxed.

Lapworth Church of England Infant and Junior school   provides for the educational needs of the 5 to 11 year olds, with a little help from a very active PTA. It is a popular school that is well thought of. Children above the age of 11 attend schools in surrounding towns including: Henley in Arden, Knowle, Stratford, and Alcester.

There is a strong community spirit in Lapworth and it is quite easy to find yourself out every night of the week at a village event in the village hall or the old school (converted to a venue) or socialising with friends at the local pubs. Local activities include: Film Club evenings, events oranised by the village hall committee such as the occasional skittles night and other entertainments, and socials put on by the Church community such as the harvest supper and the Christian aid supper. The village has a tradition of providing its own entertainment. If you have a talent you can share such as acting, singing, poetry recitation, or playing a musical instrument you will find a willing and sympathetic audience ready to enjoy your talent. Clubs and societies include the Lapworth Players, a well regarded amateur dramatics society, the Local History Group, the WI, Men of Lapworth Evening Society, Ladies Supper Club, Elderberries, and Lapworth Old Peoples Association. Nor are the children forgotten. There is Pre-School, which is next to the school, and a brownie pack for the girls. There are also Saturday football, and speech and drama classes. For the teenagers there is CFCs, a christian run youth group, run at the Lees Chapel on alternate Friday evenings during term time. Check The Lees Chapel website for details.