Edgbaston Reservoir

Ok, great area to take the dog for a walk around the reservoir or for a run. Parking can be a little busy at times. Can get really muddy in the pathways so wear sensible shoes. Well worth a visit during the day time.

Edgbaston Resorvoir is another of those urban idyls that take away the sometimes claustrophobic feelings of city living.
Looking out over the flat waterway can be an incredibly calming feeling, and sometimes even dramatic if the wind is up.
A walk around the resorvoir is a good way to get an idea of it’s size and allows you to really take in it’s serene beauty.
The footpath is frequented by dog walkers, joggers and people just out on a stroll.
Whether you’re out to burn off calories or just fancy sitting and watching the world go by, Edgbaston Resorvoir offers a scenic setting in which to ponder the greater mysteries of life or simply stare out over the water.

Even although I’ve lived in Edgbaston twice over the years, I’ve only just visited now that I don’t live there!
It is a little bit of peace in the middle of a bustling and varied neighbourhood and although I’ve heard it’s not the safest place to be on your own (definitely not at night!) I’ve also know two friends who use it regularly. The first also lives in JQ like me and loves this part of Birmingham for running in. In fact her running club use it as their regular route and it’s much more motivating going a running loop around the reservoir rather than apartment blocks. Another friend belongs to the sailing club so it’s a regular visit for her too.
I visited myself as part of Midlands Discover Tour (more of that elsewhere) where we learnt that the path around the reservoir is about 1.75 miles. As well as the Midland Sailing Club, the Birmingham Rowing Club is also based here so plenty of activity for water addicts.

There’s two miles of pathway around the reservoir making it a popular place for joggers, dog-​walkers and people out for a gentle stroll. This is a fabulous facility that I’ve used over the years. Sadly, these days I feel it’s under used. I remember when each weekend there was something going on, on the water. These days, however, to see a single boat on the lake is a rarity. That said, it’s home to The Midland Sailing Club and Sea Cadet Centre and The Birmingham Rowing Club. It’s still one of my favourite places to relax. The council and ranger service do a great job with its upkeep. It’s also a popular place for fishing. It’s a stones throw from Birmingham city centre and parking is free. It could do with a café actually within the reservoir but there is one just at the entrance.

This is a lovely place to come on a nice day, for walking, jogging, dog walking, or just to enjoy the peacefulness of nature! The footpath goes all round the large resevoir, making easy access for pushchairs and wheelchairs! As we visited in the springtime, there are lots of birds on nests, with chicks or eggs, so the only real problem I have is during this time of year, dogs are allowed to run free! There is also sailing at one end of the water, which just about anyone can do for a fee! Lots of people had their cameras out, due to chicks and generally pictuesque scenery! We will be visiting again soon!

The Edgbaston reservoir is very popular for walkers, joggers, and cyclists, who enjoy the 2.8 km (1.75 miles) circuit that unsurprisingly runs outside the reservoir itself. The route will be most populated during the morning hours and on the weekends (Sunday particularly). It’s a brilliant circuit for the ‘starting’ runner, or anyone getting back into running, due to the completely flat terrain.
There is actually a car park at the end of Reservoir Road, where people can park before setting off on their run/​walk/​cycle, which is completely free of charge. Alternatively, there are three other pedestrian entrances, Rotton Park Road, Ickneild Port Road and Gillott Road.
However, I would advise steering clear of late night walks (6pm onwards), as it gets very dark, and with no lighting, can be rather intimidating if alone.