Top 6 Lakes around Bournheath

The Bournheath area features a mix of man-made reservoirs, historically built for water supply, and smaller natural ponds. Notable examples include the large Upper Bittell Reservoir and the pond within Lickey Hills Country Park.

Yes, several spots are great for families. Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort is a popular choice, offering woodlands, walking trails, and a visitor center with a playground. Upper Bittell Reservoir also has designated picnic areas for a relaxed day out.

You can enjoy a variety of activities. The Bittell Reservoirs are popular for sailing through the Barnt Green Sailing Club, fishing (coarse and fly fishing), and birdwatching. Lickey Hills Country Park is excellent for walking, hiking, and enjoying nature. For more structured routes, you can explore various hiking and road cycling routes around Bournheath.

Absolutely. Lickey Hills Country Park offers numerous paths and trails, including the scenic 'Bluebell Trail'. Upper Bittell Reservoir is also described as an excellent place for hiking. You can find many easy hikes and moderate hiking routes in the wider Bournheath area.

The area boasts diverse natural beauty. At Lickey Hills Country Park, you'll find woodlands, wildflower displays, and abundant wildlife. Beacon Hill within the park offers panoramic views. The Bittell Reservoirs are part of a 178-acre Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), known for their tranquil waterside atmosphere and attracting various wildfowl and migrant bird species.

Public access for wild swimming is generally restricted in the reservoirs. However, the Birmingham Running, Athletic and Triathlon Club (BRAT club) organizes open water swimming sessions for its members at Upper Bittell Reservoir during the summer season.

Yes, Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort is itself a historical site. The park, originally royal hunting grounds, was donated by the Cadbury family and has connections to J.R.R. Tolkien. The reservoirs, like Upper Bittell Reservoir and Bartley Green Reservoir, are also historically significant as they were constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to supply drinking water to Birmingham.

The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Spring brings beautiful wildflower displays, especially the bluebells in Lickey Hills Country Park. Summer is ideal for sailing and picnicking. Winter is excellent for birdwatching at the Bittell Reservoirs, as they attract many wildfowl and gulls. Hiking is enjoyable in most seasons, though paths can be muddy after rain.

Yes, Lickey Hills Country Park has a visitor center with facilities, including cafes. There are also pubs and cafes in the surrounding Bromsgrove area that can be accessed after your visit to the lakes.

Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty. Many enjoy the extensive woodlands and varied walking trails at Lickey Hills Country Park, often combining it with a visit to Beacon Hill for views. The serene waterside atmosphere and opportunities for activities like sailing and fishing at Upper Bittell Reservoir are also highly valued.

Yes, parking is generally available. Lickey Hills Country Park has parking areas, though it can get busy on bank holidays, so arriving early is recommended. Specific parking information for other lakes like the Bittell Reservoirs would depend on the access points for fishing or sailing clubs.

Many of the areas around the lakes, particularly Lickey Hills Country Park, are popular with dog walkers. It's always advisable to keep dogs under control and check for any specific signage regarding lead requirements or restricted areas, especially around nature reserves or fishing spots.