Local Explorer Route

Inspired by Birmingham hosting the European Athletics Championships in August 2026 we have created some great local explorer routes so you can have fun discovering Birmingham. Building on our 69wards by bike or foot maps, the routes are mostly traffic free and suitable for all abilities. There are walking and cycling routes for each of the 10 Birmingham constituencies, helping you get outside and discover local greenspaces, hidden gems, heritage sites and cool places to visit.   

All the routes are designed to be self-guided, easy to follow and achievable in one day. Alternatively, you can choose one or two places along the routes to visit and use the route to help plan your journey. 

🚶🚲 Erdington – Lake to Lake Loop

A gentle walk or cycle through nature to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this route links together the neighbouring green and blue spaces of Witton Lakes and Brookvale Park Lake. Both lakes are a haven for wildlife recreational pursuits – an ideal location for a stroll, jogging or birdwatching. Brookvale Park and Lake is a great local heritage site which opened in 1909 as Erdington’s first park and worth a visit.  

Notes 

• A lovely walk suitable for all the family

Cafés / Pitstops 

• Bring a packed lunch or snacks – No café stops on this route however, you will find ideal picnic spots throughout  

• Check Witton Lakes Eco Hub for opening times and activities and you may be able to pop in for a cuppa or toilet break  

Points of Interest 

• Witton Lakes Eco Hub – Witton Lodge – former park-keepers cottage, now a multi-functional eco-friendly community facility offering local people an array of services, activities and support 

Green Spaces 

Witton Lakes   

• Two lakes 

• Velvet community orchard 

• Wildflower meadows & woodland walks, lots of birdlife 

• Home to Witton Lakes Eco Hub 

Brookvale Park – Opened in 1909 as Erdington’s first park. 

• Woodland walking trails 

• Children’s playground 

• 2km walking and jogging route  

• Tennis courts 

• Fishing 

Public Transport Links  

• Bus number 28 stopping on Perry Common Road 

• Erdington train station (closest to the start) 

• Gravelly Hill (closest to Brookvale Park) 

A few things to remember while you are out exploring these routes: 

• Be prepared – ensure you are wearing suitable shoes and clothing for your activity. Dress for the weather and take water/snacks. 

• If cycling, make sure your bike is in good working order and safe to ride – Do a quick bike check before heading out.

• Please be extra careful when near open water. 

• When cycling always follow the Highway Code.  

• Be courteous to others, particularly on towpaths and shared paths. 

• Most of all, have fun! 

ENJOY exploring your chosen route. We’d love to see what you get up to and hear what you think of the routes so remember to tag @ecobirmingham when sharing your adventures on social media or send us a quick message.  

The development of this route and activities in Birmingham has been supported by: