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Best river hikes in Birmingham
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Best river hikes in Birmingham

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Birmingham.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Edgbaston Reservoir Loop - Birmingham

Birmingham, England · star 4.7 (3) · 9.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 58 min

2

Easy

Stratford upon Avon Canal Walk - Kings Norton

Birmingham, England · star N/A (0) · 10.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 13 min

3

Easy

Worcester and Birmingham Canal Walk from Bournville

Birmingham, England · star 4.0 (2) · 4.8 km · Est. 1 hrs 2 min

4

Easy

Selly Oak Park, Edgbaston Reservoir and Harborne Nature Reserve via Harborne Walkway

Birmingham, England · star 4.5 (2) · 13.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 58 min

5

Easy

Longbridge to Cannon Hill Park Walk

Birmingham, England · star 4.6 (5) · 11.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 18 min

6

Easy

Mill Pool and Trittiford Park Walk

Birmingham, England · star 4.4 (5) · 4.2 km · Est. 55 min

7

Easy

Small Heath to Stechford Walk

Birmingham, England · star 4.5 (2) · 9.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 1 min

8

Easy

King Norton Park and West Heath Park Loop

Birmingham, England · star 5.0 (1) · 6.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 30 min

9

Easy

Rolfe Bridge via Birmingham Canal

Birmingham, England · star N/A (0) · 9.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 56 min

10

Easy

Birmingham Canal Main Lane and Norman Street Loop

Birmingham, England · star 4.5 (2) · 5.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 9 min

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Reviews for river hikes in Birmingham

Darnell Kassulke avatar

Edgbaston Reservoir Loop - Birmingham

HorizonTrailguardian77 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Stratford upon Avon Canal Walk - Kings Norton.

Myles Emard Esq. avatar

Worcester and Birmingham Canal Walk from Bournville

HorizonNavigator96 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Cleta Macejkovic avatar

Selly Oak Park, Edgbaston Reservoir and Harborne Nature Reserve via Harborne Walkway

WildRidgechaser49 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Mitchel Kertzmann avatar

Longbridge to Cannon Hill Park Walk

WandererForestrunner21 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Birmingham

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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