Sandwell Valley Country Park
A vast 1800-acre green oasis near West Bromwich, blending lakes, woodlands, farms, wildlife and history in the heart of the West Midlands.
Spanning over 1800 acres just a mile from West Bromwich town centre, Sandwell Valley Country Park is a vast green oasis in the heart of the West Midlands. The park blends nature, history and family-friendly activities, with lakes, woodlands, meadows, a working Victorian farm, an RSPB nature reserve, cycle trails, an adventure playground and historic priory ruins. It’s open all year round, free to enter, and offers something for walkers, wildlife watchers, cyclists and families alike.
A brief summary to Sandwell Valley Country Park
- Salter's Ln, West Bromwich, B71 4BG, GB
- +441215693070
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the RSPB visitor centre early in the day to catch the most active birdlife and avoid the busiest family times.
- Wear sturdy footwear, especially after rain, as some paths can be muddy; bring a waterproof jacket if the forecast is damp.
- Check the park’s website or notice boards for seasonal events, farm activities and any temporary closures before your visit.
- Use the main car parks at Salters Lane or near the RSPB reserve; parking charges apply during the day, but there are free options outside peak hours.
- Combine a walk around Forge Mill Lake with a visit to the farm and the priory ruins for a varied half-day outing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
From West Bromwich town centre, take local bus routes 4, 5, 16, 40, 45 or 46 towards Sandwell Valley; the journey takes about 10–15 minutes and drops you near the main entrances to the park and visitor centre.
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Car
Drive to Salter’s Lane, West Bromwich; the main park entrances and car parks are clearly signed from the A41 and local roads, with parking charges in operation during the day in most car parks.
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Walking
From West Bromwich town centre, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk along well-used paths and roads to reach the main park entrances and visitor centre area.
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Cycling
The park has dedicated cycle paths and is accessible via local cycle routes; bring your own bike or hire from the park’s adventure centre for a full day of riding on trails and quiet paths.
Sandwell Valley Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sandwell Valley Country Park
A Green Heart in the Black Country
Sandwell Valley Country Park stretches across more than 1800 acres of open countryside, a rare and expansive green lung nestled between West Bromwich and Birmingham. Just a short walk from the town centre, the park feels like a world apart, with rolling meadows, quiet woodlands, and the meandering River Tame threading through its length. This is a place where city dwellers come to breathe fresh air, escape the urban rhythm, and reconnect with nature. The park is open from early morning until dusk every day, making it ideal for early walks, after-work strolls, weekend picnics and long family days out.Wildlife, Lakes and Nature Reserves
The park is home to several designated nature reserves, including the RSPB Sandwell Valley reserve around Forge Mill Lake. Here, reedbeds, marshes and open water attract a rich variety of birds, from ducks and waders to kingfishers and woodpeckers. Wildflower meadows buzz with insects in summer, while scrubland and woodland provide shelter for small mammals and nesting birds. Well-maintained trails loop around the lakes and through the woods, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching, photography and quiet contemplation. The RSPB visitor centre provides information, seasonal events and a warm spot for a drink while watching the wildlife from the hide.Farms, History and Heritage Features
Two working farm visitor centres anchor the park’s cultural side. Sandwell Valley Visitor Centre, formerly Sandwell Park Farm, is a restored Victorian farm with a traditional farmyard, walled kitchen garden, local history displays and a tea room. Nearby, Forge Mill Farm offers a recreated working farm experience with rare-breed animals, a farm shop and a children’s play area. Scattered throughout the park are historic features: the ruins of Sandwell Priory, a medieval Benedictine monastery dissolved in the 1520s; an old ice house; a ha-ha; and traces of the area’s coal-mining past, including burnt mounds and former colliery sites, all adding layers of history to the landscape.Activities for All Ages
The park is designed to keep visitors of all ages engaged. There’s an adventure playground, a mountain bike trail, cycle hire, pitch and putt, crazy golf, tennis courts and football pitches. Families can enjoy tractor and trailer rides or open-top bus tours at certain times. The park also has dedicated routes for walking, cycling and horse riding, making it a popular spot for fitness and leisure. Children love meeting the farm animals, exploring the farm trails and joining in seasonal events and nature-themed activities, while adults appreciate the peaceful walks, scenic views and the chance to spot local wildlife.Practicalities and Facilities
Access to the park is free, though there are small charges for parking in some car parks during the day and for specific attractions like the high ropes course or amusements. The main visitor centre and farm sites have toilets, accessible facilities, cafes, picnic areas and shops. The park is well connected by local bus routes and has multiple entrances and car parks, including at Salters Lane and near the RSPB reserve. Whether you’re planning a quick lunchtime walk or a full day out with the family, the park’s mix of open space, structured activities and natural beauty makes it a versatile and welcoming destination.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gem Buildings
5.3 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
5.7 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Chamberlain Clock
5.7 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.
Perrott's Folly
6.0 km
An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, steeped in history and Tolkien lore, now a cultural beacon for art and community.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
6.6 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
6.7 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
Aston Cross Clock Tower
6.7 km
A distinguished Victorian clock tower in Birmingham symbolizing historic community pride and architectural heritage.
Historic England
6.7 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
The River
6.8 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
The Old Joint Stock Pub & Theatre, Birmingham
6.8 km
Victorian pub grandeur meets intimate theatre magic in Birmingham's charming Temple Row square – ales, pies, and powerhouse performances await.
Black Country Living Museum
6.8 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of England at the Black Country Living Museum, a vibrant open-air museum in Dudley showcasing history, culture, and family fun.
Birmingham Cathedral
6.8 km
Explore Birmingham Cathedral: A historical gem showcasing stunning architecture, serene gardens, and vibrant cultural events in the heart of Birmingham.
West Midlands Police Museum
6.9 km
Explore the captivating history of law enforcement at the West Midlands Police Museum in Birmingham, a unique attraction for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Workers Memorial
6.9 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
The Cube
6.9 km
Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
New Square
1.2 km
A central shopping and leisure destination in West Bromwich offering diverse retail, dining, and community experiences.
Fountain
1.2 km
Discover the historic Fountain in West Bromwich, a vibrant tourist attraction that reflects the town's rich culture and community spirit.
High St
1.3 km
Explore West Bromwich’s High Street, a vibrant shopping mile blending local charm with diverse retail and dining options.
Astle Retail Park
1.3 km
West Midlands outlet shopping meets family entertainment and fitness in one modern destination.
Oak House Museum
2.1 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.
RSPB Sandwell Valley
2.1 km
A peaceful nature reserve near Birmingham with diverse wildlife, family-friendly trails, and scenic lakeside views.
Galton Bridge
2.2 km
Discover Galton Bridge, an iconic historical landmark in Smethwick, offering picturesque views and rich industrial heritage for all tourists.
Bromwich Hall - West Bromwich Manor House Museum
3.1 km
Explore Bromwich Hall, a rare 13th-century medieval manor house museum rich with history, architecture, and intriguing tales in West Bromwich.
Handsworth Park
3.5 km
Historic Handsworth Park offers 63 acres of landscaped beauty, boating lakes, and cultural heritage in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant Handsworth district.
THE JEWELLERY TRUNK BIRMINGHAM
3.8 km
Bespoke bridal and event jewellery crafted with exceptional detail and personalized service in the heart of Handsworth, Birmingham.
Windmill Shopping Centre
3.8 km
A vibrant retail hub in Smethwick offering diverse stores, extended hours, and ample parking for a convenient shopping experience.
Soho House Museum
4.3 km
Explore the elegant Georgian home of Matthew Boulton, a pioneer of the Industrial Revolution and hub of the Lunar Society in Birmingham.
7th Avenue Manhattan
4.4 km
Explore a vast wildlife safari and adventure park near Birmingham with free-roaming animals, immersive exhibits, and family-friendly rides.
Rowley Hills
4.8 km
Explore the highest hills in West Midlands, rich in nature, history, and panoramic views in the heart of Oldbury’s green landscape.
Springhill Interchange Birmingham
5.3 km
Explore Springhill Interchange, a vibrant hub in Birmingham, where culture, history, and modern urban life converge for an unforgettable experience.
Essential places to dine
Lucarelli Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in stylish private domes at Lucarelli Restaurant, West Bromwich’s culinary gem.
Kopitiam
5.7 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
Cappadocia Restaurant
5.7 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.
The Wilderness
5.8 km
Experience bold British fine dining with innovative tasting menus in a moody, industrial-chic setting at Birmingham’s Wilderness.
24 Carat Bistro
5.8 km
Hidden gem serving slow-cooked goat curry and Punjabi fusion in Birmingham's historic Jewelry Quarter.
The Button Factory
5.8 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.
The Rolling Mill
5.9 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.
Decorum Restaurant Birmingham
5.9 km
Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.
Fiesta del Asado - Edgbaston
6.0 km
Experience the finest Argentinian flame-grilled steaks and vibrant Latin flavors in the heart of Birmingham’s Edgbaston district.
Restaurant Folium
6.1 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
6.1 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
Pasta Di Piazza
6.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Somewhere in Brum
6.2 km
A vibrant bar and brunch spot in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, blending diverse cuisine with a lively social atmosphere.
Locanta italian restaurant
6.3 km
Authentic Italian dining in a historic Victorian setting with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, fine wines, and live music in Birmingham’s city centre.
Modern Restaurant & Cafee
6.3 km
A vibrant modern dining spot in Birmingham offering diverse cuisine and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for small parties and late-night meals.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Disorder Boutique
5.3 km
Discover Birmingham’s exclusive sustainable fashion boutique, where bespoke craftsmanship meets bold, original British designs.
Gingermegs Vintage
5.4 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Design Centre
5.6 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
5.7 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
5.7 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
Top Jewellery UK
5.7 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
5.7 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Quarter Jewellery
5.8 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
SACET
5.8 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Artfull Expression
5.8 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
5.9 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)
Buff Jewellery
5.9 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
5.9 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Great Western Arcade
6.9 km
Explore the Great Western Arcade, where Victorian elegance meets modern shopping in Birmingham's historic heart.
Designer Exchange
6.9 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Red Lion
5.5 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
The Jewellers Arms
5.6 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
The Rose Villa Tavern
5.7 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
The Pig & Tail
5.8 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
Lucky7
5.9 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
1000 Trades
5.9 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Garden House
6.1 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.
40 St Paul's
6.1 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gin speakeasy: 100+ global varieties, intimate vibes, and masterful cocktails in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
The Distillery
6.1 km
Birmingham's canal-side gin distillery pub: rotisserie feasts, wood-fired pizzas, house gins, and terrace vibes from brunch to late-night drinks.
Queen's Arms birmingham
6.2 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
Malt House
6.3 km
A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
Actress & Bishop
6.3 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
All Bar One Brindleyplace
6.4 km
Stylish canal-side wine bar and cocktail lounge in Birmingham’s vibrant Westside, perfect for bottomless brunches and lively evenings.
The Alchemist Brindleyplace
6.4 km
Experience Birmingham’s theatrical cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindleyplace, where molecular mixology meets creative cuisine above the canal.
Slug & Lettuce - Birmingham
6.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindley Place offering vibrant drinks, tasty bites, and late-night fun in Birmingham’s city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
5.7 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
PAVO Birmingham
5.8 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
5.8 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
6.3 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
Reflex - Birmingham
6.5 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.
Popworld - Birmingham
6.5 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Rosies - Birmingham
6.6 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Snobs
6.6 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
What do you mean
6.8 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.
King of clubs
7.1 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.
Bambu Nightclub
7.4 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
7.4 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
7.4 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.
Mango Night Club
7.5 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
suki10c
7.6 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
