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. 

🚶Yardley – Parks & Heritage 

Enjoy this five-mile walk exploring local parks and green spaces just off the Coventry Road. Opportunities to get active outdoors, join one of the local groups or try the outdoor gym in Oaklands Park. There’s also so many nature and wildlife spots to explore along Cole Valley, as well as the historic sites of Blakesley Hall and St. Edburgha’s Church. This route will make you grateful for the special things we have on our doorstep, expect a proper local discovery adventure. 

Notes 

• A walk celebrating green spaces and heritage on your doorstep  

• Plenty of activities and things to see for adults and families alike 

Cafés / Pitstops 

• Shops and cafes on Coventry Road/Swan Shopping Centre 

• Shop – Across from Old Yardley Park 

Points of Interest 

• City skyline view – Oaklands Recreation Park  

• Hobmoor Community Centre 

• Blakesley Hall  – Tudor Hall and Gardens the herb garden is part of the Silent Space scheme, promoting peaceful time in green spaces 

• St Edburgha’s Church – Old cobble street and Jubilee Garden  

Green Spaces 

Oaklands Recreation Ground  – A popular community park with many facilities. 

• 2 kilometre walking and jogging routes  

• City skyline viewpoint 

• Parkrun – Saturday mornings 

• Basketball court  

• Car Park (off Holder Road entrance)  

• Children’s playgrounds  

• Gym equipment  

• Multi-use playing fields  

• Skateboarding area  

Cole Valley 

Part of Kingfisher Country Park, wooded areas, well defined pathway following the River Cole 

Marlborough House Community Park 

Old Yardley Park 

Childrens playground 

Small wooded area 

Home to grade 1 listed, St Edburgha’s Church and garden 

Public Transport Links  

• Bus Number 60, X1, X2 or 11 

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: