Sian Victoria © - Fairoak pools, Cannock Chase Forest

Places for walks near Walsall, Cannock, Birmingham & Stafford

After putting together my exhilarating list of hikes with summit views in the West Midlands, I couldn't help but feel the urge to uncover more local treasures that may not boast sweeping panoramas but are undeniably worth a visit. In this post, I share my local adventures and recommend the most awe-inspiring destinations I explored alongside my furry companion throughout 2020.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the splendor of the Black Country and the surrounding West Midlands region. I discovered an array of remarkable woodland walking trails, lush forests, serene nature reserves dotted with picturesque lakes and reservoirs, and historic canal paths adorned with charming bridges. These hidden havens offer a chance to escape into nature's embrace and indulge in the stunning beauty hiding away in the Midlands.

Join me on a journey as we navigate through 15 exceptional walking trails and nature reserves that will ignite your spirit of adventure. Whether you crave the tranquility of the woods, yearn to witness vibrant sunsets reflected upon still waters, or simply seek a leisurely stroll along historic canals, this comprehensive list will guide you to the most captivating spots in the region.

Prepare to be captivated by the Midlands' natural wonders as we embark on an exploration of these hidden gems. Lace up your hiking boots, bring along your furry friend, and let's venture into discovering the Midlands' beautiful landscapes.

1. Fairoak Pools - Cannock Chase Forest

A place in Staffordshire that’s always been one of my favourite local places to escape to is Cannock Chase Forest. There are over 17,000 acres to explore spanning across Cannock, Rugeley, and Hednesford. 63% of this area of outstanding natural beauty is made up of forests and 37% is farmland and private land.

There are so many walking trails to explore on foot or by bike that it's hard to choose a favourite scenic spot in Cannock Chase. But perhaps the most popular trails can be found when you park at Birches Valley Forest Centre Car Park, Rugeley WS15 2UQ. Where there is a GoApe, café, children’s playground, and toilet facilities to be found.

From here you can then have a lovely stroll to the Fairoak trail (WS15 2UH) where you’ll find two large pools. In the area there are plenty of ducks, swans, and squirrels and if you are lucky a herd of deer. Not too far away you’ll also find a large open grassed area perfect for picnics. It’s also where the Forestry Commission host outdoor festivals.

2. Lickey Hills Country Park - Birmingham

Sian Victoria © - Lickey Hills Country Park, Birmingham

Recommendation number 2 and 3 can be completed on the same day as they are within a 15-minute drive of each other. We always start at Lickey Hills Country Park which is located 10 miles south-west of Birmingham. The park has ancient trees and is one of the oldest parks managed by the Birmingham City Council.

Covering 524 acres here you will find a children’s playground, a café with outdoor seating, scenic views, and wooden sculptures. There are a variety of woodland walking trails and 380 species of flowering plants to spot. Although sadly a lot of the ancient trees are having to be cut down because they have been infected by harmful spores. So, it is advised to stick to the designated paths to prevent the spores from hitching a ride on the bottom of your shoes and spreading elsewhere.

Nearby the Lickey Hills Country Park you’ll also find an historical landmark, the Beacon Hill Toposcope. Which is a castle on a hilltop 298 meters above sea level with 360-degree views. It does have a car park a short walk away. However, there is a scenic trail you could walk to get there from Lickey Hills which is on my list to do this year.

3. Clent Hills - Worcestershire

Sian Victoria © - Clent Hills, Worcestershire

After a stroll around Lickey Hills, go on a short drive to Clent Hills. There’s parking, a café and toilets located at Nimmings Wood (B62 0NL) and another car park located on Walton Hill Road (B62 0NQ).

We have always entered via Nimmings Wood as the facilities can only be found there. Here you’ll find the option to hike steep woodland steps or take the designated path up to the hill which is more suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. There’s also a Natural Play Area and a meadow suitable for a picnic. Understandably, like all woodland areas please don’t take a BBQ.

Clent Hills is a large area of beautiful countryside on the outskirts of the city with an elevation of 315 m. On a clear day, it is possible to see the Welsh Black Mountains on the horizon. The area is managed by the National Trust and is open from 10 am-4 pm every day. If you come by car, make sure you leave in time as your car will be stuck for the night.

On the top of Clent Hills, a toposcope can be found identifying the historical landmarks that can be seen on a clear day as well as the mysterious Four Stones Megalithic folly. Other historical landmarks to be seen nearby are the Wychbury Obelisk and Hagley Castle.

4. Chasewater Country Park – Burntwood

Sian Victoria © - Chasewater Country Park, Burntwood

A popular place I have many memories of visiting as a child is Chasewater Country Park in Burntwood, Staffordshire. It’s the perfect place to enjoy wildlife, recreation, and sport with there being a walking trail surrounding the entire 90-hectare reservoir that’s used for watersport activities, such as sailing, wakeboarding, water skiing, water zorbing and paddle boarding.

Near the car park, there’s also a café, children’s playground, toilets, and a decked path leading to a mini castle overlooking the reservoir.

Chasewater is a protected area due to its rare heathland habitat. You’ll see plenty of water birds. Especially swans, rare plant species, invertebrates, and herds of deer. I’ve personally seen more deer here than anywhere else on this list.

So, I love visiting, especially in the evenings to watch a sunset reflecting on the water. There’s also a canal path trail you can get to from here that I recommend doing.

5. Stafford Castle – Staffordshire

Sian Victoria © - Stafford Castle, Staffordshire

One of Staffordshire’s must-visit heritage sites is Stafford Castle which is surrounded by 26 acres of woodland including a visitor centre and herb garden.

At an elevation of 472ft. Stafford Castle has dominated the local skyline for over 900 years. There are beautiful green country views still to be experienced from the historic ruins.

In 1100 AD the castle was once a timber fortress used as a vantage point and strategic site. In the 14th century, it was then built in stone. Over the centuries it’s been occupied by many people of historical interest and has been destroyed, rebuilt, and abandoned several times.

6. Great Haywood Canal - Staffordshire

Sian Victoria © - Essex Bridge, Great Haywood

Sian Victoria © - Great Haywood canal, Staffordshire

If you’re visiting Stafford Castle. Make a day of it by visiting Essex Bridge on the Shugborough Estate too. It’s also located on the edge of Cannock Chase Forest.

In the Autumn we travelled to Great Haywood and parked at the Canalside Farm Shop & Café for coffee and cake before strolling along the canal path where we discovered Essex Bridge. The picturesque packhorse bridge is Grade I listed and was built in the late 16th century by the Earl of Essex. It was a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I.

The bridge overlooks the River Trent and meets with the River Sow. Once you’ve crossed the bridge follow the path to Shugborough Estate which features a grand stately home that opened in 1693. I’ve always loved visiting Shugborough Hall as a child because they’d always host memorable Halloween events. The historical landmark is now managed by the National Trust.

7. Cannon Hill Park – Birmingham

Sian Victoria © - Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham

A popular green space to visit in Birmingham is Cannon Hill Park. It’s made up of 80 acres of parkland and 120 acres of conservation and woodland plantation. Here you’ll find a children’s playground with a funfair at weekends (depending on the weather), an arts centre, fishing pools, a 36 hole mini-golf course, a tennis court and pedalo boats to hire for sailing on the lake during summer.

In full bloom, the park is lovely to stroll around and is a popular destination for foodie festivals. The land was once owned by Louisa Ryland who donated it to Birmingham City Council for it to be a free recreational area for the people of Birmingham to benefit from the great outdoors. It officially opened to the public in 1873 and of course, nowadays parking charges apply.

While strolling around you’ll find plenty of memorials and historical features including a grade II listed Bandstand and the Red Carriage Bridge.

8. Coombe Abbey Park – Coventry

Sian Victoria © - Coombe Abbey Park, Coventry

Coombe Abbey Park in Worcestershire near Coventry was a place I discovered when I booked a treetop experience at GoApe. The outdoor adventure site is located on 500 acres of lush green parkland belonging to the incredible looking Coombe Abbey Hotel.

The mediaeval Abbey was built in 1150 AD. Over the centuries its been home to many including monks, Royals, and an aristocratic family known as the Cravens. Until Coventry City Council took ownership of the Abbey and parkland in 1964.

During its time as a Royal hideaway to King Henry VIII. In 1605 Guy Fawkes and his conspirators in Worcestershire had a plan to kidnap Princess Elizabeth who was staying at the Abbey at the time of the failed gunpowder plot on the House of Lords in London. Where Elizabeth's dad King Henry VIII was present.

Therefore, the magnificent Abbey and its grounds have a rich heritage and are worthy of a visit.

On the parkland, you’ll find a wildflower meadow, bird hides, historic Victorian gardens, walking trails, BBQ areas, picnic benches, a duck and swan feeding area at the large lake and access to long-distance walking routes such as Centenary Way and Sowe Valley Footpath.

Plus, Virgin Balloon Flights take off within the grounds so that you can experience Warwickshire’s spectacular scenery.

9. Shoal Hill Common – Cannock

Sian Victoria © - Shoal Hill Common, Cannock

Shoal Hill Common in Cannock is a nature preserve we stumbled upon while driving past the entrance, after a visit to the town centre located just a mile away. With no expectations of what to expect we were pleasantly surprised by this 180-acre site made up of woodland, lowland, and a large lake that’s popular to visit all year round.

You’ll also find parking and beautiful scenic views. Shoal Hill Common is within the Cannock Chase Forest area and is too an important landscape with an invaluable wildlife habitat. Home to rare plant, animal, bird, and insect species such as the common lizard, skylarks, and stonechats birds and small heath and green hairstreak butterflies to name a few.

10. Pelsall North Common – Walsall

Sian Victoria © - Pelsall North Common, Walsall

Pelsall North Common is a 92-acre canalside nature reserve in Pelsall, Walsall. Popular with locals for walking dogs, watching wildlife, and enjoying picnics. There’s also a flat grassed area for playing sports and a lake where you’ll often spot a Stork standing proudly in the waters among crested newts that are thriving in the area.

You may also be lucky enough to spot rabbits, foxes, lizards, mice, and bats if you’re around after dusk. On foot we’ve always entered from The Fingerpost pub and strolled along the canal to the Pelsall Junction where the Wyrley and Essington Canal passes. We then explore in both directions passing many historical bridges.

11. Park Lime Pits Local Nature Reserve – Walsall

Sian Victoria © - Park Lime Pits Nature Reserve, Walsall

Also located next to a canal path is the Park Lime Pits nature reserve in Rushall, Walsall. Home to two clear pools, more than 100 types of birds including woodpeckers, herons, and yellowhammers and more than 300 species of plant including limestone-loving wildflowers.

Here you’ll find a former limestone quarry surrounded by woodland. There’s also a circular walking trail to enjoy that wraps around the pool and connects to Lime Pits Farm and country park. To extended you’re walk I recommend strolling down Daw End Canal.

It’s one of the most rural of the Birmingham Canal Navigations. It was once used to carry limestone to furnaces across the Black Country but is now a peaceful escape surrounded by lush green plant life. To complete the day, you’ll find three local pubs to choose from nearby.

12. Sandwell Valley Country Park

Sian Victoria © - Sandwell Valley Country Park

Located between Birmingham and West Bromwich you’ll find Sandwell Valley Country Park. Here you’ll find 1,300 acres of countryside to wander around, with there being something for everyone.

There are two working farms, a woodland trail that is great for cycling, footpaths for walking, multiple pools and streams, a nature reserve for admiring the local wildlife, and numerous playgrounds suitable for five to 13-year-olds. As well as a skate park, historical buildings, and an RSPB centre.

There’s a Tesco a short walk away, so when we visit during the summer, we like to grab a meal deal and enjoy a mini picnic on the hills overlooking the lush green trees. Plus, if you don’t have a bike, you can hire one onsite at Valley Cycles.

With over 15 miles of trails, you could easily enjoy hours exploring this great local park.

13. Sutton Park

Sian Victoria © - Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield

Stretching over 2,400 expansive acres is Sutton Park. If you ever find yourself in Sutton Coldfield, this iconic park – which is considered one of the largest urban parks throughout Europe - is certainly somewhere to consider visiting if you’re seeking a very long stroll in the great outdoors.

Just 6 miles away from Birmingham city centre is this lush expanse of green space, perfect for strolling through and taking in the natural scenery whatever the weather. Considered by many to be one of the best parks in the West Midlands, this park is great if you want to enjoy a walk amongst nature, dog walking or fancy exploring the variety of plants and wildlife.

Boasting an array of woodland, marshes, beautiful lakes and nature, Sutton Park is nothing short of amazing. You might even spot cattle, horses and ponies grazing on the open green space when taking a walk across the park.

Whether it's walking, jogging or nature watching you want to do, this park gives you the ability to do it all. Enjoy the sensational natural scenery on your stroll before stopping off at a play area to entertain the kids, and then admiring the grazing animals or watch and partake in a sail on one of its seven lakes.

And if the fresh air has helped you work up an appetite, you’ll find a few restaurants to choose from as you make your way out of this fantastic nature reserve.

14. Barr Beacon Local Nature Reserve

Sian Victoria © - Walsall park picnic with a blue merle border collie dog

Just outside of Walsall town centre is the Barr Beacon Local Nature Reserve. If you fancy escaping the urban chaos of the town, escape to the natural, unspoilt beauty of this recreational space.

Considered to be one of the highest points in the West Midlands, this nature reserve is the perfect spot whenever you fancy going on a stroll. There’s carparking spaces as you enter a short walk from where you’ll find the Barr Beacon War memorial. And across the road from the carpark is a hidden gem that not many people know about. Named The Beacon Quarry and the Spinney, which is a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation it is a must-visit for any geological enthusiasts.

Said to have been formed over 80 million years, at this reserve you’ll find a deep red sandstone cliff with unique red Triassic rock helping to form the rocky landscape. Walsall, which was once home to a tropical desert, many million years ago of course has fossils and mining bees hidden in the beautiful red rocks at this geological site.

Once you’ve checked out the sandstone cliff at the Quarry walk back over the road and stroll along the hills and green space at Barr Beacon and take in the views by spotting the infamous Wrekin, as well as Birmingham City Centre and other incredible parks mentioned on this list including Lickey Hills and Cannock Chase in the distance.

15. Walsall Arboretum

Sian Victoria © - Walsall Arboretum stream along the pathway

Sian Victoria © - Walsall Arboretum, fishing lake

Sian Victoria © - Walsall Arboretum, playground

This Victorian public park is situated right in the heart of Walsall town centre. With its origins stretching back to 1874, Walsall Arboretum has been enjoyed by locals and visitors from far and wide, seeking an escape from the chaos of everyday life.

Stretched across 170 rural acres, the arboretum is made up of expansive green spaces, a variety of plant and flower species, wildlife, and even well-equipped sports facilities. Whether you fancy having a picnic on a summer’s day with all the family, watching the wildlife swim in the boating lake or even fancy testing your hand at tennis, there’s plenty to get up to at this park. Take in the 10,000+ different tree species as you stroll through the arboretum and see if you can spot any squirrels running about.

The Walsall Arboretum doesn’t fall short in terms of its amenities. After you’ve strolled through the park, stop off for a refreshment at the café, and let the little ones burn off some energy at one of the multiple play areas.

Growing up nearby, I have very fond memories of this place, visiting the iconic Walsall Illuminations every year as a child. The light festival was once considered to be the biggest inland display in Britain so strolling through this Victorian park always brings back memories.

Follow & Support

15 Best Walking Trails & Nature Reserves in West Midlands