From the Bournbrook Inn the walk will visit Hazelwell Park which was originally part of the Hazelwell Estate. After checking the view from the top, the walk descends to follow the River Rea path south passing a community orchard and vegetable gardens. After crossing the outer circle, the route leaves the River Rea to join the Worcester canal briefly to The Breedon Cross before making its way to Cotteridge Park. Cotteridge Park is community run and volunteers host a small cafe and many events and manage a community orchard. After Cotteridge park we’ll visit the Ladies’ Garden before returning to Stirchley. Due to several mills along the Rea, its proximity to the Canal from 1815 and suburban railway from 1876, Stirchley developed an industrial base around metal rolling and engineering later to become GKN. Being close to the new transport systems Cadbury’s arrived 1897 and had very close links with the workers and industries on the “other side of the track”. Of note we’ll pass the electricity station, see where Stirchley Markets were, admire the Baths, Library, Friends Meeting House and visit the pocket park to finish at the Bournbrook Inn. Stirchley is now a “village” gaining fame for its Stirchley Mile pub crawl which visits breweries and craft ale houses that have set up in recent years.
There are toilet facilities at the start and finish. We can stop for a short rest in Cotteridge Park. Bring your own snack or drink or purchase at the cafe, (there may be a long queue). The walk is 3 ½ miles. Please wear sturdy footwear. The route is mostly footpaths but there is some meadow walking in parks and orchards. Since the walk is organised under the auspices of the Ramblers, we are unable to accommodate dogs other than assistance dogs on the walk.
How to get there: From City centre, by bus – catch Bus no. 45 or 47 from Carrs Lane MS20 or New Street NS4. Buses are every 10 minutes and travel via Pershore Road. The journey takes 25mins. Alight at the bus stop opposite Umberslade Road, outside the Co-op Funeral care. Cross the main road at pedestrian lights to get to the Brounbrook Inn. By train – catch the cross-city line and alight at Bournville station. Allow 10 minutes to walk to the Bournbrook Inn. At Bournville station take the exit down the stairs and turn right on Bournville Lane, then left at the Pershore Road. Continue past Morrisons and cross over to the the Bournbrook Inn.
By car – The Bournbrook Inn is on the corner of Pershore Road and Umberslade Road. The car park entrance is at the rear off Umberslade Road. You will need to register your car at the desk when you have parked.
Organised by City of Birmingham Ramblers
