Often referred to as the epicentre of the country’s canal network, Birmingham’s canals are a thing of beauty. Particularly Gas Street Basin – an area flanked by popular entertainment hubs of Brindleyplace, Broad Street and the Mailbox. Need a pitstop? Take respite at the James Brindley inspired Canal House pub, or the Canalside Cafe just across the water.
Canal House pub, 12 Bridge St, Birmingham B1 2JR, England, +44 121 643 8829
Canalside Café, Gas St, Birmingham B1 2JU, England, +44 121 643 3170
Perfect for garden lovers, Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens has 15 acres of green tranquillity. You’ll find some of the most rare and exotic plants in the Midlands in this suburban oasis in Edgbaston, just a few minutes’ drive from the city centre.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Rd, Birmingham B15 3TR, England, +44 121 454 1860
Birmingham Botanical Gardens | ©Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Aston Hall is one of the more grandiose examples of architecture in Birmingham. This superb 17th century red-brick Jacobean mansion was once the former home of Thomas Holte and the famous engineer, James Watt. Grade II listed, this building and its gardens are a wonder to explore and overlook Aston Villa’s football stadium, Villa Park.
Aston Hall, Trinity Rd, Birmingham B6 6JD, England, +44 121 348 8100
Aston Hall and Gardens | © Birmingham City Council/Flickr
You wouldn’t believe this gorgeous house and gardens are in Birmingham! Built for industrialist John Nettlefold in the early 1900s, Winterbourne House and Garden is a brilliant example of Edwardian life both inside the house and outside. Why not take a walk through the various exhibition rooms before stopping off for a spot of afternoon tea in the terrace tea room?
Winterbourne House and Garden, Birmingham, B15 2RT, England, +44 121 414 3003
Moseley Bog is a lot better than it sounds, honest! This Site of Importance for Nature Conservation – and inspiration for the ancient forests in Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings – is located just around the corner from Sarehole Mill, which hosts regular LOTR-themed events. Both of which form part of the Tolkien Trail, a self-led walking route which takes in the areas of Birmingham that all provided inspiration for the famous author.
Moseley Bog, Birmingham | ©Elliott Brown/Flickr
If green spaces and flowers aren’t for you, Birmingham has a reservoir not too far from the city centre. Perfect in summer months, Edgbaston Reservoir offers a 2km walking and running route around its circumference, as well as rowing and sailing opportunities.