Local Explorer Route – Ladywood

Building on our 69wards by bike or foot maps we have designed a series of local explorer routes suitable for all abilities. There is a walking and cycling route 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.

🚶🚲 Ladywood – Street Art, Canals & Industrial Heritage 

Starting and finishing at the Custard Factory gives you a great opportunity to explore the city’s urban scene, fantastic street art, independent shops and cafés, but not before a wander along Birmingham’s canal system There’s lots of industrial heritage this side of the city alongside some very green areas making for a great bike ride or walk. Halfway around the route you have the option to come off the canal and visit Aston reservoir, a hidden gem located right next to the Spaghetti Junction offering a little green oasis away from the busy road network. A great nature spot where you can enjoy a walk around the water, birdwatching or free fishing for species like bream, tench, and perch. Also, it’s home to Power League, football pitches.

Notes 

• Suitable for Cycling or Walking

• Traffic free route – One very short road section before joining the canal towpath 

• Use shared path and pedestrian crossings to reach Aston reservoir  

• Some bumpy, narrow canal bridges you may need to push your bike through if cycling 

Cafés / Pitstops 

• The Custard Factory – Plenty of cafés to choose from  

• Refreshments available at Power League  

Points of Interest 

• The Custard Factory, Digbeth – wonderful urban culture scene, expect street art, independent shops, indoor market, cafés, bars and restaurants 

• Birmingham canals – where industrial scenes meet tree lined waterways 

Green Spaces 

Aston reservoir/Salford Park 

• Hidden gem, great for birdwatching and fishing. A path around the water and small wooded area.  

Public Transport Links  

• Bus number 13, 17, 57, 58, 60, or 97 

• Moor Street, New Street or Bordesley train stations 

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: