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. 

🚲🚶Cycling or Walking Route:  Small Heath Park & Beyond 

Small Heath Park & Beyond makes for a great cycle ride, linking together local parks with shared paths, cycle lanes and the Grand Union Canal, where you can go off-trail and explore the River Cole Community Commons ‘Trim Trail’ or visit the Ackers Adventure centre.   

Notes 

• Suitable for all abilities 

• Uses a few cycle lanes on side roads  

• On main roads use the shared paths and pedestrian crossings 

Cafés / Pitstops 

• Coventry Road – Plenty of shops/café options  

Points of Interest 

• Ackers Adventure – just off route 

• Grand Union Canal -a short section of the longest canal in the UK linking Birmingham to London (137 miles in total!) 

• Stone Circle in Kingston Hill park with views toward the city centre skyline 

• St. Andrew’s – Birmingham City Football Ground 

Green Spaces 

Small Heath Park – open green space with lake and wooded area 

• Children’s play area 

• Basketball courts 

• Walking and jogging routes  

Kingston Hill Park – Small community green space  

• Community space – Kingston Hill Community Group  

• Children’s play area  

• Stone circle / ruins – great city skyline view 

River Cole Community Commons  

• Nature Trail  

• Children’s play area  

Sara Park 

• Children’s playground 

• Open green spaces 

• Sara Park Activity Centre, hosts local youth and sports 

Public Transport Links  

•  Bus Number 60, X1, X2  
• Small Heath Train Station 

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: