Best lakes around New Frankley In Birmingham include significant drinking water reservoirs that also serve as recreational hubs. The area features Bartley Reservoir, a prominent site for watersports, birdwatching, and outdoor activities, completed in 1930. While Frankley Reservoir is nearby, it is not accessible to the public. The landscape offers a mix of natural green spaces, woodlands, and historical points of interest alongside these water bodies.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Popular around New Frankley In Birmingham
Can be muddy in places if it has rained a few days earlier.
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Boulder left by ice age , discovered by Victorians
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Edgbaston Reservoir is a green oasis within the urban landscape of Birmingham, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and wildlife appreciation. Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll, birdwatching, or water-based activities, it provides a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
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Upper Bittell Reservoir covers approximately 40 acres and is the larger of the two Bittell Reservoirs. The reservoir was created in the late 19th century to provide drinking water to the city of Birmingham. It was constructed by damming the Bittell Brook. It is an excellent place for hiking and picnicking, with designated picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the serene waterside atmosphere.
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I'm lucky enough to live a short walk from the Lickeys. Another option, from the path leading out of the car park, is to take a left down to the Barnt Green road, cross the road and join the North Worcestershire Path around the two Bittel reservoirs. You could even then jump onto the Worcester Canal, walk along the towpath and through Barnt Green back to the Lickeys Country Park. Spoilt for choice!
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Lots of variety, gentle hills, woodland, ponds, heathland, two cafes. Some history too including remains of ww2 sites. The walks are a few miles long. You can also combine with a walk around Barnt Green or to Waseley. Helpful rangers have maps and can advise on the best walks. A good visitor centre. I usually cycle there or start a walk at Barnt Green station. For those who want a park experience there is a good playground area close to the visitor centre.
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Bartley Green Reservoir is a drinking water reservoir supply the Birmingham area. It's construction was completed in 1930.
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The lakes in New Frankley In Birmingham offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and running around Bartley Reservoir, which also hosts watersports like sailing. For more structured activities, there are numerous hiking trails, MTB trails, and road cycling routes in the surrounding area, catering to different skill levels.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. Bartley Reservoir has routes around its perimeter, and the nearby Bromwich Wood Local Nature Reserve provides varied trails. Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort features lovely woodland and hill walks. Upper Bittell Reservoir is also noted as an excellent place for hiking. For longer excursions, consider the 'Clent and Waseley Hills Circular' or 'Waseley Hills Country Park loop' hiking routes.
Several lakes are family-friendly. Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort is a great choice, offering woodlands, open spaces, and a good playground area close to the visitor centre. Edgbaston Reservoir has a well-surfaced path all the way around, suitable for prams and bikes. Bartley Reservoir provides picnic areas and green spaces for children to enjoy.
Yes, cycling is popular around some lakes. Edgbaston Reservoir has a great surfaced path perfect for riding, with good links via Harborne Walkway and the canal. While Bartley Reservoir is popular with road cyclists in the wider area, its immediate paths are more suited for walking. You can find various road cycling routes and MTB trails in the region.
Yes, the area offers historical points of interest. Near Bartley Reservoir, you can find the picturesque 15th-century St. Leonard's Church. Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort itself is a historical site, featuring the Stone Fort and remains of WWII sites, along with the Beacon Hill Toposcope offering views. Cannon Hill's Rescued Boulder in Cannon Hill Park is another interesting historical feature, a boulder left by the ice age.
Bartley Reservoir is renowned as a prime spot for birdwatching, famously where ornithologist Bill Oddie conducted much of his early observations. Birdwatchers continue to frequent the reservoir due to its diverse avian population. The surrounding green spaces and Bromwich Wood also contribute to its appeal for nature enthusiasts.
Yes, Bartley Reservoir has a picnic area equipped with a cafรฉ and shop, along with ample parking. Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort also features two cafes and a visitor centre. These facilities make it convenient for visitors to enjoy refreshments and amenities during their visit.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings beautiful wildflower displays, especially in areas like Bartley Meadows and Lickey Hills. Summer is ideal for watersports at Bartley Reservoir and picnics. Autumn offers scenic views with changing foliage, and winter provides crisp walks, though some paths might be muddy after rain.
Yes, Bartley Reservoir is fully accessible to the public. It offers various leisure activities, including watersports, birdwatching, walking routes, and picnic areas. There is also ample parking available. In contrast, the nearby Frankley Reservoir is not open for public access.
Yes, Bartley Reservoir is a hub for watersports and hosts the Bartley Sailing Club and Andrew Simpson Centres Birmingham, so you can often see sailing activities there. Bartley Green Reservoir is also a local spot where you can observe sailing.
The area around the lakes boasts diverse natural features. Bartley Reservoir is surrounded by Bartley Meadows, known for its rich floral diversity, and Bromwich Wood Local Nature Reserve, featuring various tree species and seasonal bluebells. Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort offers pretty woodlands, wildflower displays, and abundant wildlife.
Yes, Edgbaston Reservoir is noted for having a great surfaced path all the way around, making it suitable for wheelchairs and prams. While specific accessibility details for all paths around other lakes vary, the main picnic and cafรฉ areas at Bartley Reservoir are generally accessible.


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