Green spaces to connect with nature in Birmingham
Free to enter and open every day of the year, Birmingham Botanical Gardens showcases idyllic glasshouses full of plants from all around the world. Enjoy their vast range of gardens, such as the Japanese Garden, Kaul Wildflower Garden, Southern Living Garden, and the Conservatory which houses the Tropical House, Desert House, and Citrus House, and so much more! There is also a tearoom, garden centre and gift shop. The Gardens also always have a packed programme of interesting events and activities going on which centre around connecting with nature. Everything from garden yoga, plant sales, terrarium workshops, outdoor cinemas, to their famous annual light trail throughout the Christmas period! Parking here is also free.
The Secret Garden at the Library of Birmingham
Did you know the Library of Birmingham is the biggest library in Europe? Aside from it’s whopping 10 levels of literature, rare books, collections of archives, and even a Shakespeare Memorial Room, you probably wouldn’t expect to stumble a secret garden in a library, would you? If you venture up to the seventh floor of the library, you will find a secret garden which offers stunning views of the Birmingham’s cityscape. It is a little nature oasis up there, blooming with plants, flowers, and the peace and quiet, to settle down with a book, or to simply go up, up and away from the city buzz below.
Winterbourne House and Gardens
Love local history and natural beauty? This one is for you. Owned by the University of Birmingham and just a 15-minute walk from University Station, you will find seven acres of botanic gardens in the grounds of the Edwardian Winterbourne House. Winterbourne House was built in 1903 for John and Margaret Nettlefold, and the house reflects the arts and crafts architectural style that was popular at the time. After the Nettlefolds, the house changed ownership a few times before being acquired by the University of Birmingham in 1944. The gardens are one of Winterbourne's main attractions. They were originally designed by Margaret Nettlefold, who was an enthusiastic gardener. The serene gardens feature a walled garden, rock garden, woodland, and a Japanese bridge. The gardens are home to over 6,000 plant species from around the world, many of which are rare or endangered.
Birmingham Cathedral Grounds
Situated in the centre of Birmingham’s business district, Colmore Row, draws in local employees on their lunch breaks, and tourists as it offers the perfect green space to relax, unwind, and take pause. Grab your favourite beverage, find a bench or a spot on the grass, and embrace the peacefulness of this sacred spot as the buzz of the city feels a world away. The best part? This is just an 8-minute walk from aparthotel Birmingham.
Canon Hill Park
Perfect for family picnics, your daily run, a walk to blow the cobwebs away, or to let your little ones burn off some steam, Canon Hill Park offers a vast outdoor space for all outdoor needs. Start off on the Boating Lake on a swan pedal boat where you can soak up the lovey sights of the park by water. Visit lots of different animals in the Nature Centre including reptiles, birds, monkeys, red pandas, and other furry favourites such as guinea pigs, goats, pigs and sheep. Specifically designed for children ranging the age of toddlers to 10-year-olds, let the kids run wild in the Fun Park which is packed with games, rides, and activities. Other activities available include the Land Train, sports facilities, mini golf at Golden Putter, cafes, and the MAC Centre which includes a theatre, cinema, workshops and more.
Edgbaston Reservoir
Edgbaston Reservoir is a picturesque, tranquil body of water here in Birmingham which attracts local walkers, joggers, and runners every day to clock their 10k daily steps. It offers a 2.8km path around it as well as the opportunity to sail and row along it. Due to it being flat all the way around, this makes it ideal for all abilities and fitness levels.