Martineau Gardens: Birmingham’s Urban Wildlife Sanctuary and Community Oasis
Discover Martineau Gardens, a serene 2.5-acre community garden and wildlife haven just minutes from Birmingham city centre.
Martineau Gardens is a 2.5-acre community garden in Birmingham offering a tranquil wildlife oasis and outdoor escape just two miles from the city centre. This organically managed space features woodland, orchards, ponds, a wildflower meadow, a children’s play area, and formal gardens. Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm, it welcomes visitors seeking nature, relaxation, and educational experiences in a peaceful urban setting.
A brief summary to Martineau Gardens
- 27 Priory Rd, Birmingham, B5 7UG, GB
- +441214407430
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and enjoy peaceful walks along woodland paths and wildflower meadows.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the outdoor seating areas since there is no café onsite, but drinks are available for donations.
- Explore the children’s ‘shipwreck’ play area for a fun and imaginative stop if visiting with family.
- Cycle to the gardens using the nearby A38 Blue Cycle Route and use the covered bike hut for secure parking.
- Check the gardens’ event calendar for special tours and educational programs that enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve the area near Martineau Gardens, including services running along Pershore Road and Bristol Road. From Birmingham New Street Station, take a bus towards Edgbaston or Five Ways, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with single fares around £2-£3 GBP.
-
Train and Walk
The nearest train stations are Five Ways and Birmingham New Street. From Five Ways, it is about a 15-minute walk through residential streets to Martineau Gardens. From New Street, take a short bus ride or a 30-minute walk. Train tickets vary by origin but expect £3-£5 GBP from central Birmingham.
-
Car
Driving to Martineau Gardens is possible with a small on-site car park available. Parking is limited, so early arrival is recommended. The gardens are located on Priory Road, approximately 2 miles from the city centre. Parking is free but limited, and traffic restrictions apply on Bristol Road due to the A38 Blue Cycle Route.
-
Bicycle
Cycling is highly encouraged with Martineau Gardens located just two minutes from the A38 Blue Cycle Route. A covered bike hut is available for secure parking. Cycling from central Birmingham takes about 10-15 minutes via dedicated cycle paths.
Martineau Gardens location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Martineau Gardens
A Living Sanctuary in the Heart of Birmingham
Nestled just two miles from Birmingham city centre, Martineau Gardens is a unique community garden that serves as a vital green lung and wildlife haven within the urban landscape. Spanning approximately 2.5 acres, the gardens are organically managed to support a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can wander winding paths through woodlands, orchards, and wildflower meadows, discovering habitats for bats, badgers, birds, and fungi. This blend of natural environments creates a peaceful refuge that contrasts with the city bustle.Features That Inspire and Educate
The gardens boast a variety of distinctive areas including a formal garden with unusual trees and shrubs, demonstration vegetable and herb beds, and a courtyard garden with ample seating. A children’s ‘shipwreck’ play area adds a playful touch, while ponds and a bird hide invite quiet observation of wildlife. Beehives and an earth oven add to the garden’s educational appeal, making it a living classroom for environmental learning and sustainable practices. The gardens also sell plants and homemade jams crafted from their own produce.Community and Conservation at the Core
Run as a charity and community project, Martineau Gardens is dedicated to providing a therapeutic outdoor space for all ages. It supports local biodiversity and offers a venue for outdoor education, with programs tailored to school groups and visitors interested in nature study. The gardens’ commitment to organic management and wildlife protection is recognized through its SLINC (Sites of Local Importance for Nature Conservation) status, underscoring its role in urban conservation.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm with free entry (except for special events), Martineau Gardens offers a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation and exploration. While there is no café, hot and cold drinks are available from the Pavilion for donations, and outdoor seating encourages picnics. Accessibility is thoughtfully considered, with wheelchair access and public toilets onsite. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.Getting There and Sustainable Access
Located at 27 Priory Road, Edgbaston, the gardens are easily reached by car, bike, or public transport. A small car park is available, but cycling is highly encouraged, with a covered bike hut and proximity to the A38 Blue Cycle Route. Nearby train stations include Five Ways and Birmingham New Street, with bus connections facilitating access. The gardens promote sustainable travel options to minimize environmental impact.Events and Community Engagement
Martineau Gardens hosts various events and educational sessions throughout the year, engaging the local community and visitors alike. These include guided tours, outdoor learning for schools, and seasonal celebrations that highlight the changing natural environment. The garden’s role as a community hub fosters connection, wellbeing, and appreciation for urban nature.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic England
2.1 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Perrott's Folly
2.4 km
An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, steeped in history and Tolkien lore, now a cultural beacon for art and community.
Chamberlain Memorial
2.7 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The River
2.7 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
2.7 km
Explore the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, where art, history, and culture converge in a stunning setting that captivates visitors of all ages.
Chamberlain Square
2.7 km
Explore Chamberlain Square, a historical landmark in Birmingham with stunning architecture and vibrant cultural life in the heart of the city.
The Selfridges Building
2.7 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
2.7 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Digbeth Art Space
2.8 km
Discover the vibrant creativity at Digbeth Art Space, Birmingham's premier art gallery showcasing local talent and innovative exhibitions.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
2.8 km
Victorian pub grandeur meets intimate theatre magic in Birmingham's charming Temple Row square – ales, pies, and powerhouse performances await.
Custard Factory
2.8 km
Explore the Custard Factory - Birmingham's creative hub of art, culture, and unique shopping experiences.
The Floodgate
2.8 km
Discover The Floodgate in Birmingham for a unique blend of drinks, indoor sports, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Factory Works
2.8 km
Discover Birmingham's Factory Works, a vibrant events venue in the historic Custard Factory, showcasing the best of local art and culture.
The Coffin Works
2.8 km
Uncover the hidden history of coffin-making in Birmingham at The Coffin Works, a unique museum offering engaging insights into the trade's past.
Birmingham Cathedral
2.9 km
Explore Birmingham Cathedral: A historical gem showcasing stunning architecture, serene gardens, and vibrant cultural events in the heart of Birmingham.
Unmissable attractions to see
Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park
0.7 km
Discover rare and endangered species in a compact, conservation-focused urban wildlife park nestled in Birmingham’s Edgbaston district.
Cannon Hill Park
0.8 km
Birmingham’s grand Victorian park with lakes, wildlife, arts, and family fun – a green escape in the city.
Winterbourne House & Garden
0.9 km
Edwardian elegance meets botanical wonder in Birmingham's hidden heritage gem.
Moonlit Park
1.5 km
A tranquil urban park in Birmingham offering playgrounds, sports courts, wildflower meadows, and scenic walking trails for all ages.
The High Field
1.5 km
Bright, stylish gastropub in Edgbaston offering classic British dishes, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming garden retreat.
Baloci
1.6 km
Experience Silk Route-inspired fine dining and boutique luxury in Birmingham’s elegant Georgian townhouse with unique rooms and rich, plush décor.
Lapworth Museum of Geology
1.6 km
Explore 4.6 billion years of Earth’s history through fossils, minerals, and interactive exhibits in Birmingham’s historic geological museum.
Edgbaston Village
1.6 km
Discover Edgbaston Village, where elegant Victorian charm meets vibrant dining, boutique shopping, and a relaxed yet lively atmosphere in Birmingham.
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens
1.7 km
Explore 15 acres of historic Victorian gardens with diverse plants, iconic glasshouses, and peaceful walking paths in the heart of Birmingham.
Dovecote
1.9 km
Explore Moseley’s charming 18th-century octagonal brick dovecote and Georgian garden, a unique glimpse into Birmingham’s rural heritage.
The Cube
2.1 km
Iconic 24-storey landmark in Birmingham blending luxury hotel, panoramic dining, boutique bowling, and event spaces with stunning city views.
Nightingale Club
2.1 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Birmingham at Nightingale Club, a renowned gay night club offering unforgettable experiences and a welcoming atmosphere.
54 Inge Street
2.2 km
Step into Birmingham’s industrial past at the last surviving Back to Back houses, a vivid glimpse into 19th-century working-class life.
52 Inge Street
2.2 km
Step inside Birmingham’s last surviving back-to-back houses and explore the rich social history of its industrial working-class heritage.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
2.2 km
Step back in time at Birmingham’s last surviving 19th-century back-to-back houses, where history and community come alive through immersive guided tours.
Essential places to dine
1900 Restaurant and Bar
1.0 km
Refined British dining and elegant drinks in a tranquil Edgbaston hotel setting near Birmingham’s University campus.
Three Church Road Restaurant
1.3 km
Elegant Georgian dining in Edgbaston offering seasonal British cuisine in an intimate, historic setting with attentive service.
The Mermaid Bar And Kitchen
1.3 km
A vibrant student dining spot within the historic University of Birmingham Guild of Students, fostering community and casual socialising.
Simpsons Restaurant
1.5 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic Georgian mansion, blending British tradition with modern culinary artistry in Birmingham's Edgbaston.
Cylla
1.6 km
Experience modern Greek cuisine with vibrant Mediterranean flavors in Birmingham’s elegant and inviting Cylla restaurant.
Chapter Edgbaston
1.7 km
Stylish British dining with seasonal, locally sourced dishes and a vibrant bar in the heart of Edgbaston.
The Blue Piano
1.7 km
A vibrant Asian-inspired restaurant and bar in Birmingham with live music, eclectic flavors, and cozy lodging in Edgbaston.
The White Swan
1.9 km
Classic British gastropub reimagined: cozy fires, gourmet comfort food, and stylish vibes in Edgbaston's heart.
Chakana
1.9 km
Experience vibrant Peruvian cuisine and inventive cocktails in a stylish Moseley restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef Robert Ortiz.
Zindiya Streatery & Bar
2.0 km
Immersive Indian street food in a vibrant Moseley setting celebrating Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata's culinary traditions.
Praza Edgbaston
2.1 km
Refined Indian dining and innovative cocktails in a stylish Georgian setting in Birmingham’s elegant Edgbaston district.
Noel’s Bar and Restaurant
2.1 km
Mediterranean charm meets Birmingham's waterfront—where fresh pasta, charcoal grills, and craft cocktails create unforgettable canalside dining.
The Meat Shack
2.2 km
Hand-smashed British beef burgers in a speakeasy-style dive bar with relaxed atmosphere and efficient service.
Carters
2.3 km
Michelin-starred modern British cuisine rooted in local terroir and sustainable sourcing.
The Coconut Tree Birmingham
2.3 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and unique island Cocotails in a lively, colorful setting at The Coconut Tree Birmingham.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Store '94
0.6 km
Cricket's soul in memorabilia: Exclusive Bears gear and Edgbaston treasures await at Store '94, Birmingham's fan-favorite sports haven.
Unique
1.5 km
Campus cornerstone for gifts, gear, and errands: Unique blends Birmingham uni pride with postal, cleaning, and courier ease in the lively University Centre.
Sheanies
1.8 km
Discover authentic vintage streetwear and timeless American workwear in Birmingham’s vibrant Sheanies boutique.
Harvey Nichols
2.2 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, a premier designer department store in The Mailbox.
BingX Cryto
2.5 km
Discover BingX Crypto in Birmingham: Your Gateway to the Future of Cryptocurrency with Expert Guidance and Innovative Products.
Living The Dream Antique Shop
2.5 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm at Living The Dream Antique Shop in Birmingham’s vibrant King's Heath.
Beauty & the Button
2.5 km
Discover personalised gifts and colourful button frames at Beauty & the Button, Birmingham’s charming shop for meaningful celebrations.
Miniso
2.5 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
KENJI Birmingham Bullring
2.5 km
Discover quirky Japanese-inspired gifts and immersive pop culture at KENJI Birmingham Bullring, a vibrant hub for unique shopping experiences.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
2.6 km
Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
My Etsy Shop
2.6 km
Explore My Etsy Shop in Deritend, Birmingham, for unique handcrafted gifts that embody local artistry and culture, perfect for every occasion.
Armadillo
2.7 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of King's Heath at Armadillo, a beloved local treasure for thoughtful shopping.
Dark Bull Vintage
2.7 km
Handpicked retro treasures in Digbeth: affordable bombers, leathers, and Brummie merch await in this colorful vintage gem.
Menkind
2.7 km
Quirky gadgets and geeky gifts await at Menkind Bullring—unique finds for him, from Star Wars merch to tech toys in Birmingham's premier shopping hub.
The Works
2.7 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Duck and Scholar
1.1 km
Lively student bar in Birmingham's Vale Village: cheap drinks, evening vibes, and endless campus camaraderie from 6pm—your go-to for pints and post-lecture laughs.
Joe's Bar
1.3 km
Vibrant student bar in Birmingham's University Guild, serving affordable pints, burgers, and campus camaraderie from noon daily.
Loki Wine Bar & Shop Edgbaston
1.7 km
Self-service wine wonderland in Edgbaston: Taste 32 global vintages, sip craft beers, savor charcuterie amid bottle-lined walls—a Birmingham gem for oenophiles.
The Physician
1.7 km
Gracious Harborne Road pub with polished wood interiors, a lengthy bar and several cosy dining rooms serving classic British fare in a convivial setting.
Boom Battle Bar Birmingham Broad Street
2.0 km
A lively Broad Street bar mixing axe throwing, karaoke, and games with cocktails for unforgettable nights out in Birmingham.
Gas Street Social
2.1 km
Canalside brasserie and cocktail bar at Birmingham’s Mailbox—known for bottomless brunches, sharers and a lively waterside atmosphere.
The Bierkeller Birmingham
2.1 km
Experience authentic Bavarian beer hall vibes, live Oompah bands, and lively parties in the heart of Birmingham’s Southside.
Aluna
2.1 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and pan-Asian dining in a stylish canalside setting at Birmingham's Aluna, the Mailbox's premier cocktail bar.
The Loft
2.1 km
A lively and welcoming bar and grill in Birmingham’s Gay Village, renowned for premium drinks, casual dining, and a vibrant inclusive atmosphere.
The Botanist Gas Street Basin
2.3 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant with canal views, seasonal menus, and live music in Birmingham’s vibrant Gas Street Basin.
Pitcher & Piano Birmingham
2.3 km
Vibrant waterside bar with retro charm, scenic canal views, and lively brunches in Birmingham’s Brindleyplace.
Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham
2.4 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham’s Brindley Place offering extensive drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and expert bartenders for unforgettable nights.
BrewDog Birmingham
2.4 km
Discover Birmingham’s craft beer haven with bold brews, industrial vibes, and lively events at BrewDog on John Bright Street.
Slug & Lettuce - Birmingham
2.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindley Place offering vibrant drinks, tasty bites, and late-night fun in Birmingham’s city centre.
Garden House
2.4 km
Cozy Edgbaston pub with roaring fires, hearty British grub, and a sunny beer garden—perfect for roasts, pints, and gatherings any day of the week.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mango Night Club
2.0 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Snobs
2.1 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
101 Night Club
2.3 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Popworld - Birmingham
2.3 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Sobar
2.3 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
Rosies - Birmingham
2.3 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Bambu Nightclub
2.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
Club PST
2.4 km
Compact, bass-driven Digbeth club with reggae roots, stacked rooms and late-night underground parties.
King of clubs
2.4 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Reflex - Birmingham
2.4 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
What do you mean
2.8 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
Sector 57
2.9 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at Sector 57, where eclectic music and electric vibes create unforgettable nights in Deritend.
Next Door & Spotlight
2.9 km
Two adjoining Digbeth nightspots — a pulse-driven DJ room and an intimate bar space with street-food pop-ups and a raw, industrial vibe.
suki10c
2.9 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
Quantum Vnues
2.9 km
Dive into Digbeth's beating heart: Quantum Venues delivers electrifying nights of music, lights, and unbridled energy in Birmingham's creative core.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
