Top Rated Attractions in Birmingham

Set facing the Winterbourne House & Gardens in Edgbaston, the Martineau Gardens is one of the biggest flower gardens in the area, covering more than two acres (0.80 hectares). Home to hundreds of species of plants, shrubs, creepers, and trees, making it a great place for casual strolls and nature walks. The garden is extremely eco-friendly is the recipient of the prestigious Green Flag Award thrice for its positive impact on the Ecology of the region. Various events such as the Nettlefest are held here to raise awareness regarding nature conservation.

By the turn of the last century, it was clear that the inhabitants of the eastern part of Birmingham's increasing urban sprawl were in need of an open space. Ward End Park, which opened in 1903 on 54 acres purchased by the city, was the solution. Today, it remains as a great Edwardian park, with mature trees and a boating lake. There are also conservation areas within the park, which is especially popular with young families.

The Witton Lakes are a pair of man-made water bodies which were created as drinking water reservoirs for the city of Birmingham. These lakes are fed water from two natural brooks, namely- Kingstanding and Bleak Hill. The brooks fill the first lake and then overflow into the next one which is known as the Brookvale Park Lake, after which they spill into the River Tame. Built in the 19th century the lakes were initially fit to supply drinking water to the city, but due to industrialization in the city it was deemed unfit for consumption. At present the lakes are maintained by the Birmingham City Council as a place of interest for leisure purposes.

The Beacon Way is a long distance walking road for those seeking some adventure. The road passes through the Sandwell Valley Nature Reserve and contains scenery that will make you stop and stare a little longer. This road extends to around 40 kilometers (24.86 miles), starting from the Victorian Sandwell park farm and ends at the heritage Chasewater Railway. It connects to another important road called the Heart of England way. En route you will encounter beautiful gardens, woods, lakes and canals adorning the charming countryside. The Beacon Way is the best way to enjoy the natural bounty of England. You can also enjoy cycling here.

Managed by the Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, the award-winning Sandwell Valley Country Park is a public country park located near the beautiful Tame river. It comprises lush green meadows, golf course, tennis courts, football grounds, horse riding areas, an adventure playground, and a RSPB visitor center. The park has excellent amenities for the visitors and offers a myriad of activities to enjoy. Adventure lovers can enjoy mountain biking, cycling, bird watching, and walking. The park was founded on the site of a 12th Century priory in the 1960s and has a few remains of the bygone era as well. The park is also home to an old Victorian farm, the Sandwell Park Farm that is home to rare and endangered animals like the Berkshire pigs and Hereford cattle. There are tea rooms in the park where visitors can grab light refreshments. In short, the park has something for everyone. Sandwell Valley Country Park is an ideal place to escape the pace.

Cotteridge Park is a Victorian Park which covers an area of 22 acres. This wonderful private park is the venue for a number of local events and activities that include from musical performances, child-friendly workshops and fitness programs to suit all ages. Featuring a basketball court, tennis court, community orchard, an amphitheatre, play areas, etc. the park is the ideal getaway for a fun-filled family day out within the city itself.