If you’re fed up with your usual running route, then this article is for you. Why not change up your next run around Birmingham with one of these new locations where you get to see beautiful sites while still getting that exercise in. From running through nature to taking a jog near the lake wherever you want to take that morning run Birmingham has a place you will love.
Edgbaston Reservoir
Built in 1827 this stunning reservoir was originally designed to be used as a top up system for the Birmingham canals and to this day is still used for the same purpose while also being the perfect spot to take that run. The reservoir and grounds cover 70 acres of land where walkers, runners, and nature lovers can feel right at home doing what they love. There’s a path around the lake that measures 2.8 km ideal for runners to go around while taking in the beautiful sites on your way.
With this location being marked as a dedicated nature reserve there’s so much to discover such as birds and other animals that are homed in and around the reservoir in the surrounding woodland. If you want more than a run then you are in luck as this location also offers sailing, fishing, and boating. How ever you want to spend your day outdoors the reservoir is the place to be and will not let you down.
115 Reservoir Road, Ladywood, Birmingham, B16 9EE
Cannon Hill Park
Cannon Hill Park was officially opened to visitors in 1873 and was donated to the citizens of Birmingham to keep the legacy going. The park is located close to the city centre making it easy to travel to and convenient for those early morning runs. With 80 acres of land dedicated to the park and over 100 acres of pure woodland there is so much to uncover a day just will not be long enough to do it all.
This park has also received an award for being one of the best green spaces in the entire UK and has achieved the green flag status for the last 10 years. With paths covering the park its perfect for you runners, joggers, and even cyclists to get outdoors without having to worry about uneven pavements or muddy parts during those rainy days.
Cannon Hill Park is not just a spot for you runners as there’s endless activities to take part in that everyone will want to get stuck into. Some of these activities include crazy golf, train tours, and lake boating which are all great fun with family and friends and make for the best day out.
The park can also be the ultimate place to kick back and relax, take in the fresh air while you are surrounded by nature. Why not pack a picnic for your lunch and enjoy it on one of their many grassy areas overlooking the sites of the lake and woodland areas.
Russell Rd, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8RD
Lickey Hills
Covering an astonishing 524 acres, Lickey Hills is one of Birminghams most treasured and famous parks. Just 10 mils out of Birmingham centre the Hills will transport you out of the busy city into a quite zen zone where you can let those stresses go and take in the sites. Whether its running, cycling, hiking, or taking the dog for a walk the Lickey Hills provides it all for you to enjoy.
The hills have over 500000 visitors per year, who all travel to see the unreal picturesque views this location has to offer. When taking a run through these hills the exercise will not be the only thing to take your breath away. One of the most famous viewpoints that people can visit is the Beacon Hill which is nearly 300 meters tall and overlooks views of the beautiful countryside.
Lickey Hills is a designated country park which just like Cannon Hill Park has also received the green flag award and is beloved by the whole of Brum. This location has so many grassy areas which are great to pull out that Frisbee, kite, or for ball games with the whole family. There is even a kid’s adventure playground so while you take in the sites the kids will be occupied and happy having the time of their life.
This outdoors space is also great for wildlife spotting. Lickey Hills is known for their diverse wildlife and is home to many creepy crawly’s, bird species, and some reptiles. To spot these creatures you could take one of their walking trails which vary in length and difficulty level depending on what you prefer to do.
After all that exercise you can stop off at the onsite café to grab a light bite and a hot drink which would be perfect for these upcoming colder days.
Warren Ln, Rednal, Birmingham B45 8ER
Harborne Walkway
A little out from the hustle and bustle of the city centre the Harborne Walkway is a 1.5 mile stretch that used to be a former railway line but now makes for a wonderful scenic running route. The line runs from Forest Drive and Park Hill Road Harborne on this route you will pass allotments, bird sanctuaries, and you will be able to go over and under bridges the trains once passed through.
The former railway was opened in 1874 and was officially closed to passengers in 1934 The track now makes for a perfect atmospheric stroll surrounded by the beautiful woodland and with a well surfaced path it’s great for you runners and cyclists too.
