Rowley Hills Nature Reserve and Heritage Site
Explore the highest hills in West Midlands, rich in nature, history, and panoramic views in the heart of Oldbury’s green landscape.
Rowley Hills is a scenic nature reserve located in Tividale, Oldbury, West Midlands. This range of hills, including Turner's Hill—the highest point in the county—offers wildflower meadows, rich birdlife, butterflies, and panoramic views. Historically significant for its quarrying heritage, the hills feature rare geological formations and are a cherished green space for nature lovers and walkers.
A brief summary to Rowley Hills
- St Brades Cl, Oldbury, Tividale, Oldbury, B69 1NX, GB
- +441214541199
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for walking the steep and uneven paths around the hills.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting butterflies in the wildflower meadows.
- Visit on a clear day to enjoy expansive panoramic views from Turner's Hill.
- Respect the natural environment by staying on marked trails and taking any litter home.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus services from Oldbury town center to Tividale, with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. Bus stops near St Brades Close provide access to Rowley Hills. Services run frequently during daytime hours. Tickets typically cost £2-£4.
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Car
Driving from central Oldbury to Rowley Hills takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Limited roadside parking is available near St Brades Close. Note that some paths are steep and parking spaces may be limited during weekends.
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Walking
For local visitors, walking from nearby residential areas in Tividale is possible within 20-40 minutes. Terrain includes paved and natural paths with some steep sections, suitable for moderately fit walkers.
Rowley Hills location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Rowley Hills
Geological and Natural Significance of Rowley Hills
Rowley Hills is a distinctive range of hills in the West Midlands, comprising Turner's Hill, Bury Hill, Portway Hill, and Darby's Hill. The hills are formed by a resistant Upper Carboniferous olivine dolerite intrusion, known locally as Rowley Rag, which historically was quarried extensively for building materials such as kerbstones. This geological uniqueness results in striking rockfaces and rare twisted cooling joints visible in the quarry areas. Turner's Hill, the highest point in the West Midlands at 269 meters, provides commanding panoramic views stretching to the Clee Hills, Clent Hills, Cannock Chase, and Birmingham's skyline.Ecological Richness and Wildlife
The hills are a thriving nature reserve, home to diverse wildflowers, birdsong, butterflies, and various insects. The rich biodiversity is supported by the mix of grasslands, woodlands, and quarry habitats. The area offers a tranquil environment for wildlife observation and nature walks, making it a popular spot for local naturalists and visitors seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. The presence of the Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and the Black Country highlights the ecological importance of parts of the hills, such as Portway Hill.Historical Quarrying and Industrial Heritage
Rowley Hills has a long history of quarrying, with the Rowley Rag stone being a valuable resource for the Black Country's industrial development. The quarries, including the large Hailsone Quarry, operated for many decades before ceasing activity in 2010. The quarry faces display geological features such as columnar jointing and exfoliation patterns, offering educational insights into the region's industrial past and geological processes. Plans for restoration and potential development aim to balance conservation with educational and recreational use.Recreational Opportunities and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Rowley Hills can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including walking, birdwatching, and photography. The hills’ steep paved routes and footpaths provide accessible yet invigorating challenges for walkers and hikers. The open landscapes and elevated vantage points create excellent opportunities for scenic views and nature escapes. The site is supported by local community groups dedicated to preserving the hills and enhancing visitor engagement through information leaflets and guided walks.Location and Surrounding Context
Situated in Tividale, Oldbury, the Rowley Hills lie on the border between the metropolitan boroughs of Dudley and Sandwell. The area is steeped in local history and industrial heritage, with nearby landmarks reflecting the Black Country’s rich past. Despite being close to urban centers, the hills provide a green refuge with a strong sense of natural beauty and heritage. The site is open year-round and offers a peaceful retreat from the surrounding towns.Conservation and Future Prospects
The Rowley Hills are part of ongoing conservation efforts to protect their unique geological and ecological features. Future plans include the establishment of a Rowley Hill Country Park, which aims to enhance public access while preserving the natural and historical assets. Community involvement and sustainable management practices are central to ensuring the hills remain a valued landscape for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Fountain
3.3 km
Discover The Fountain, Dudley’s iconic historical landmark nestled in the vibrant Market Place, where heritage meets lively community spirit.
Perrott's Folly
7.7 km
An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, steeped in history and Tolkien lore, now a cultural beacon for art and community.
Gem Buildings
8.4 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
Chamberlain Clock
8.5 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
8.5 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Historic England
8.9 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Chamberlain Square
9.2 km
Explore Chamberlain Square, a historical landmark in Birmingham with stunning architecture and vibrant cultural life in the heart of the city.
The Cube
9.2 km
Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Chamberlain Sq
9.2 km
Explore Chamberlain Square in Birmingham, a vibrant cultural hub with stunning architecture, rich history, and lively events in the city's heart.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
9.2 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Memorial
9.2 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game
9.2 km
Experience the thrill of escape at Clue HQ Birmingham, where adventure and mystery await in immersive escape rooms.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
9.2 km
Explore the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, where art, history, and culture converge in a stunning setting that captivates visitors of all ages.
Winterbourne House & Garden
9.3 km
Experience the enchanting blend of nature and history at Winterbourne House & Garden, a botanical paradise in the heart of Birmingham.
Victoria Square
9.3 km
Discover the vibrancy of Victoria Square, Birmingham's cultural heart, surrounded by stunning architecture, events, and delightful eateries.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bumble Hole Local Nature Reserve
2.6 km
Industrial heritage meets ecological recovery at this transformed canal-side nature reserve.
Oak House Museum
2.7 km
Step into a 17th-century yeoman’s home at this Grade I listed timber-framed gem in West Bromwich, now a museum of Stuart life and local heritage.
Dudley Market
3.3 km
A vibrant traditional market in the heart of Dudley offering fresh produce, local goods, and a lively community atmosphere six days a week.
Dudley Zoo and Castle
3.3 km
Explore medieval ruins and rare wildlife at Dudley Zoo and Castle, a captivating blend of history and nature in the heart of Dudley.
Black Country Living Museum
3.4 km
Step back in time and explore over 300 years of Black Country industrial heritage in a vibrant open-air museum with living history and authentic experiences.
High St
3.5 km
Explore West Bromwich’s High Street, a vibrant shopping mile blending local charm with diverse retail and dining options.
Fountain
3.6 km
Discover the historic Fountain in West Bromwich, a vibrant tourist attraction that reflects the town's rich culture and community spirit.
Astle Retail Park
3.6 km
West Midlands outlet shopping meets family entertainment and fitness in one modern destination.
New Square
3.7 km
A central shopping and leisure destination in West Bromwich offering diverse retail, dining, and community experiences.
Galton Bridge
3.8 km
Discover Galton Bridge, an iconic historical landmark in Smethwick, offering picturesque views and rich industrial heritage for all tourists.
Dudley Canal and Caverns
3.9 km
Discover Dudley’s underground limestone caverns and canals on a captivating boat tour through 428 million years of history.
Castle Mill Basin
4.0 km
Underground limestone basin where industrial heritage meets subterranean exploration through historic canal tunnels.
Haden Hill House
4.0 km
A late-Victorian house museum and 17th-century hall set in 55 acres of award-winning parkland, offering history, hands-on activities and peaceful green space in the Black Country.
Sandwell Valley Country Park
4.8 km
A vast 1800-acre green oasis near West Bromwich, blending lakes, woodlands, farms, wildlife and history in the heart of the West Midlands.
Saltwells Local Nature Reserve
4.9 km
Explore one of the UK’s largest urban nature reserves, where ancient woodlands and rich geology meet the legacy of coal mining.
Essential places to dine
Lucarelli Restaurant
4.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in stylish private domes at Lucarelli Restaurant, West Bromwich’s culinary gem.
Tropea
7.0 km
Discover Tropea, a modern Italian gem in Birmingham’s Harborne, where seasonal dishes and warm hospitality create an unforgettable dining experience.
Fiesta del Asado - Edgbaston
7.3 km
Experience the finest Argentinian flame-grilled steaks and vibrant Latin flavors in the heart of Birmingham’s Edgbaston district.
Buonissimo Restaurant Birmingham
7.4 km
Authentic Italian dining in Harborne, Birmingham, blending warm hospitality with classic flavors in a cozy setting.
Harborne Kitchen
7.4 km
Experience innovative fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a vibrant, relaxed setting at Harborne Kitchen, Birmingham’s culinary jewel.
Rustic Table
7.5 km
A warm, intimate tapas gem in Harborne, serving vibrant Mediterranean small plates and creative cocktails in a relaxed, convivial setting.
The White Swan
7.8 km
Classic British gastropub reimagined: cozy fires, gourmet comfort food, and stylish vibes in Edgbaston's heart.
Praza Edgbaston
7.9 km
Refined Indian dining and innovative cocktails in a stylish Georgian setting in Birmingham’s elegant Edgbaston district.
Cylla
8.4 km
Experience modern Greek cuisine with vibrant Mediterranean flavors in Birmingham’s elegant and inviting Cylla restaurant.
The Blue Piano
8.4 km
A vibrant Asian-inspired restaurant and bar in Birmingham with live music, eclectic flavors, and cozy lodging in Edgbaston.
Chapter Edgbaston
8.4 km
Stylish British dining with seasonal, locally sourced dishes and a vibrant bar in the heart of Edgbaston.
Simpsons Restaurant
8.4 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic Georgian mansion, blending British tradition with modern culinary artistry in Birmingham's Edgbaston.
Cappadocia Restaurant
8.5 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.
The Button Factory
8.5 km
A stylish blend of industrial heritage and modern dining, The Button Factory offers vibrant food, drinks, and rooftop vibes in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Kopitiam
8.6 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cornbow Shopping Centre
5.8 km
A modernized shopping hub in Halesowen blending major retailers, independent shops, and community amenities for a vibrant retail experience.
Something Quirky
5.8 km
Eclectic gift shop brimming with unique treasures and one-of-a-kind finds in Halesowen.
Disorder Boutique
6.7 km
Discover Birmingham’s exclusive sustainable fashion boutique, where bespoke craftsmanship meets bold, original British designs.
Gingermegs Vintage
8.4 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Design Centre
8.5 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Top Jewellery UK
8.5 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
8.5 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
A&N Jewellery
8.5 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
SACET
8.6 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Quarter Jewellery
8.6 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
8.6 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
8.6 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Artfull Expression
8.6 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
Buff Jewellery
8.7 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
8.7 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Garden House
7.4 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.
The Red Lion
8.3 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
The Physician
8.3 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.
The Distillery
8.3 km
Birmingham's canal-side gin distillery pub: rotisserie feasts, wood-fired pizzas, house gins, and terrace vibes from brunch to late-night drinks.
Loki Wine Bar & Shop Edgbaston
8.4 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 Pig & Tail
8.4 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
The Rose Villa Tavern
8.5 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
The Jewellers Arms
8.5 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
Lucky7
8.6 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
1000 Trades
8.6 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Malt House
8.6 km
A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
Duck and Scholar
8.6 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.
Boom Battle Bar Birmingham Broad Street
8.7 km
A lively Broad Street bar mixing axe throwing, karaoke, and games with cocktails for unforgettable nights out in Birmingham.
The Alchemist Brindleyplace
8.7 km
Experience Birmingham’s theatrical cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindleyplace, where molecular mixology meets creative cuisine above the canal.
All Bar One Brindleyplace
8.7 km
Stylish canal-side wine bar and cocktail lounge in Birmingham’s vibrant Westside, perfect for bottomless brunches and lively evenings.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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