Escape the city – 6 walks on your doorstep

There are always so many things for us to get up to in the likes of Birmingham, Coventry and Wolverhampton every week, but sometimes all we want is a bit of fresh air and a long walk with the dog! Get your backpack filled with plenty of food and drink and of course a raincoat this weekend and head on a walk with your family and friends to these glorious destinations.

Clent Hills
The Clent Hills are just a stone’s throw away from Birmingham, with the closest towns being Stourbridge and Halesowen. Just under a million visitors a year are estimated to head to the hills a year, which makes them Worcestershire’s most popular non-paying attraction. It is no wonder why so many head there either, with spectacular views of the surrounding towns and local landmarks. On a clear day you can even see as far as the Cotswolds and the Peak District.

Beacon Way
Perfect for those who live around Walsall, start your journey by the restored Victorian Sandwell Park Farm in West Bromwich and follow the route through Sandwell Country Park and Sandwell Valley. Not only are the countryside views stunning, you will also occasionally walk alongside the Rushall, Wyrley and Essington Canals which will lead you to Chasewater lake and heritage railway.

Heart of England Way
This walk is over an impressive 100 miles long and covers a wide amount of towns in the West Midlands and three counties, which means you’re probably never far away from jumping onto the path and joining everyone else. The walk starts in Milford Common on Cannock Chase and ends at Bourton on the Water in the Cotswolds, passing through the likes of Lichfield and Alcester on route.

Sutton Park
If you want to escape the city but don’t want to head too far out, this is your perfect choice. Sutton Park is a National Nature Reserve and it is the second largest park outside of a capital city in the UK. The park covers an impressive mix of marshes, woodland and even seven lakes, as well as a golf course and children’s play area.

Malvern Hills
If you’re wanting to really get out of the city, head to Malvern, a friendly town with good transport links. Known for their spring water, made famous by the region’s holy wells, the range of hills spread across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire. Admire the views of the surrounding counties as well as the likes of the Severn Valley, the Bristol Channel and the cathedrals of Worcester, Gloucester and Hereford.

Wyre Forest
On the edge of the likes of Bewdley, Kidderminster and Upper Arley sits the Wyre Forest. The forest covers almost 11 miles of woodland and it is one of the largest areas of semi-natural woodland in the UK. If you are a fan of wildlife, this place is for you, as the forest boasts all kinds of beautiful species. There are long routes to follow around the forest as well as shorter ones if you want to take the kids!