Located in the once-industrial West Midlands, Birmingham is a city that’s easy to love. However, there’s one problem: it’s a vast and bustling city. Fortunately, Birmingham is encircled by an awe-inspiring countryside, showcasing the best of Britain’s scenic beauty. So, if you’re looking for a refreshing break from city life, I’ve handpicked the most stunning and charming trails to explore the next time you go walking in Birmingham. Let’s discover them!
1. Edgbaston Reservoir and Harborne Circular
Explore the Edgbaston Reservoir and Harborne Circular trail, a wonderful 14.3-km loop near Birmingham, West Midlands, England. It’s a moderately challenging route, taking around 3 hours and 40 minutes on average to complete. You’ll enjoy the serene mix of wooded areas, canal-side paths, and suburban landscapes. The mostly paved and signposted paths make it easy to navigate through nearly 15km of beauty.
This trail offers a peaceful escape from the city buzz, providing tranquillity at Edgbaston Reservoir. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or an invigorating run, this is the perfect place to bond with your dog and explore the great outdoors. Ultimately, this is one of the most nature-filled routes for walking in Birmingham!
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2. Lickey Hills Country Park
Prepare your Thermos flask and embark on a 16-km journey southwest of Birmingham to reach the idyllic Lickey Hills Country Park, an ideal spot for picnics. This vast canvas of woodland, heathland, and grassland extends over several hundred acres, promising a delightful escape into nature. The park is crisscrossed with well-loved marked trails, offering exciting opportunities like sculpture and geology walks.
Before setting off, grab some leaflets from the visitor centre, where helpful park rangers can guide you in the right direction. As you explore, make your way to the summit of Beacon Hill, the highest point in Lickey Hills, to revel in stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding counties. Although Lickey Hills Country Park is one of the more challenging routes for walking in Birmingham, it is also one of the most rewarding!
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3. Earlswood Lakes
Located close to Solihull and embraced by lush woodlands teeming with wildlife, the picturesque Earlswood Lakes consist of three reservoirs. A leisurely stroll will lead you along the path, offering glimpses of Terry’s Pool, where wild otters and turtles gracefully dive into the serene waters.
As you continue, you’ll come across Clowes Wood, a delightful combination of wet meadows and heathland, adorned with vibrant bluebells and lily of the valley. Keep an eye out for red foxes and curious badgers that roam these grounds. If you’re in the mood for more waterside enchantment, the trail is conveniently located near the Stratford-upon-Avon canal, offering an opportunity to extend your delightful waterside walk. This is why Earlswood Lakes is one of the best places for walking in Birmingham!
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4. Birmingham Canal Trail
Explore the Birmingham Canal Trail, a scenic 9.3-km route near Birmingham, West Midlands, England. It’s an easy trail, perfect for a fun day outdoors, and it usually takes around 2 hours to complete. This is one of the most popular paths for walking in Birmingham!
If you prefer some quiet time, consider going during less busy hours. You can even bring your furry friends along, but make sure they’re on a leash. Along the way, you’ll witness some fantastic rock textures and might spot some cool graffiti and birds. It’s not a super fancy trail, but it has its own charm, and you’ll definitely appreciate the experience. So grab your family or friends and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife this trail has to offer!
Enjoy Your Walk in Birmingham
As you can see, Birmingham is a city that offers both the charm of urban life and the beauty of the countryside. The stunning walking trails surrounding the city provide a refreshing escape from the bustling streets. So, the next time you visit Birmingham, take a break from the city and explore these charming trails for a memorable adventure! For more wellness activities in the city, check out these top Birmingham cycle routes. Also remember to download the Walk Run Cycle app for top-notch curated routes in the UK. Have a wonderful time!
