While Birmingham has a reputation as a large urban city lacking in green spaces, it actually has an array of hidden rural gems to explore. Immersing yourself in nature is essential for boosting your well-being, getting some exercise, and escaping the hustle of University life. Here are my five favourite green spaces in Birmingham.
1) Winterbourne Gardens
With free entry for students, visiting Winterbourne is an essential day out for those at the University of Birmingham. There is a lovely book shop, tea rooms, a stunning garden with an array of flowers and plants, and a river you can cross either via stepping stones or an intricate wooden arched bridge. Due to Covid, I am yet to explore Winterbourne house but it’s on my bucket list. Winterbourne is only a couple of minutes from campus so there’s no excuse not to visit.
2) Lickey Hills
Lickey Hills is a little further from campus and can be reached with a short train, car, or bus journey. It has a range of woodland walking trails up to a peak with a castle-like monument on top which offers amazing views over Birmingham. It’s definitely a location you can visit again and again and always discover something new. There is also a great pub to refuel in after your walk.
3) Cannon Hill Park
Another classic among students, Cannon Hill is a 30-minute walk from campus and is conveniently situated next to an Aldi, perfect for grabbing snacks for a picnic. Cannon Hill boasts a beautiful flower-studded path through the park and a lake, alive with ducks, geese and, of course, swan pedalos. It also offers a mini-golf course and usually has an ice cream van. There’s an extremely welcoming roller skating community that have regular meets at Cannon Hill and are always happy to teach you some tricks. For those feeling creative, Cannon Hill is located beside the Midlands Arts Centre, which offers independent film screenings, art exhibitions, live music, theatre and craft workshops.
4) The Vale
Known predominantly as a first-year accommodation at the University of Birmingham, The Vale boasts an eyecatching lake and is an amazing spot for a walk not far from campus whether you live there or not. There is a spacious green area, perfect for relaxing in, whether you are sunbathing or sledging.
5) Malvern Hills
Malvern is a little further afield and can be accessed via a one-hour train ride. It’s definitely worth the journey. It offers a ridge-top walk across several peaks, ideal for more experienced hikers. From the top of Worcestershire Beacon, the highest peak, there are scenic views across the Severn valley. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Welsh mountains. Malvern is a quaint town with a photogenic abbey, and an array of charity shops, bookshops and independent cafes.
Read next: Why you should join the pantomime society