Sutton Park

Sutton Park has long been a favourite location for locals to relax and get back to nature, away from the stresses and strains of urban life. Situated to the north of Birmingham city centre, it is an enormous 900 hectares in size. The park has been a feature of life in this area for an incredibly long time, having been established as a Royal Forest in the 9th century – indeed, history here can be traced back as far as A.D. 80. It is also immensely popular, with over two million visitors every single year.

Go to the Visitor Centre for maps and fascinating historical information about the park’s past, with the particular emphasis on the Roman remains, which include a preserved Roman Road which survives from the 1st century A.D.

Walk along one of the many trails around the park, and take in the beautiful oak woods and open parkland. When you get hungry, enjoy a picnic by the waterside or in one of the gardens.

Golf fans can enjoy a few holes or a full round on one of the two golf courses in the park, while model airplane enthusiasts will love the movement and colour of Flying Field, which is found near the Boldmere Gate. Children who are a bit younger will delight in the excellent playgrounds and the ever-popular pony rides.

Powell’s Pool is the biggest of the seven lakes in the park, and was created in 1730. It acts as a habitat and home to a range of birds, from coots to grebe to ducks. Fishing is permitted in some of the other lakes, but you need to get a permit from the Visitor Centre, and to bring your own rod.

Sutton Park is in Sutton Coldfield, a 20-minute drive from Birmingham city centre. Parking is free, except on Sundays and during summer holidays. It is also easily accessible by train, and is open all year round.