The West Midlands is not just a region of England, but also a ceremonial county. It has three cities, but most surrounding areas are rural, with lovely English villages (it’s only a short hop over the border into Shropshire, one of England’s least populated counties).
Step outside the city buzz – to find sprawling woodlands, tranquil lakes and charming wildlife trails.
Always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe.
The Three Cities of West Midlands County
- Birmingham is home to one of Europe’s largest libraries, reggae music and birthplace of the Balti curry! Not so popular is Spaghetti Junction, a notorious road junction that leaves motorists confused and stressed.
- Wolverhampton is home to the friendliest people in England. It also is known for its football team, Wolverhampton Wanderers. To help you win at Scrabble, locals are known as ‘Wulfrunians’.
- Coventry suffered terribly during the Blitz, being heavily bombed. At one time, this was the fourth wealthiest city in England, and has the third largest church spire in England (after Salisbury and Norwich).
Green Spaces in or Near Birmingham
Sutton Park is one of the largest urban parks in England, covering over 2400 acres. The mix of heathland, wetlands and ancient woodland make it a haven for local birds.
Do not touch or feed the wild ponies. They are looked after by Exmoor Pony Society, report any concerns to the council.
- Cannon Hill Park is a popular green space, over 200 acres of formal gardens, wild woodland and open fields.
- The Lickey Hills burst into wildflower blooms each spring and summer. The highest point (Beacon Hill) gives sweeping views across the county.
- Edgbaston Reservoir offers relaxing circular walks on the waterside.
- Moseley Bog is a nature reserve with ancient woodland, wildlife ponds and boardwalks winding through the trees.
- Saltwells Nature Reserve sits on the edge of Dudley, offering peaceful woodlands and carpets of flowers.
