7 Best Spots For A Picnic In Or Near Birmingham
Looking for the best picnic spots in Birmingham? You’re in luck!
Birmingham truly is a city with something for everyone. From vibrant nightlife and a delicious food scene to over 8,000 acres of parks and open space, there’s always something new to try.
Today, let’s dive into the best spots for a picnic in Birmingham. With so much green space, locals are seriously spoilt for choice. So, we’ve collected the most popular picnic areas in and around the city centre and listed them all in one place.
Just remember to check the weather forecast before you pack your picnic!
1. Highgate Park
First on the list is Highgate Park, an inner city park with greenery, games and sports areas, and seating.
Highgate gives you the best of both worlds if you want to enjoy some fresh air without travelling too far from the city. This Digbeth-based park is only a 10-minute drive from the centre.
However, there aren’t any public toilets on this site.
Enjoy Highgate without extra picnic baggage! Cafe Lovelife is a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from this Birmingham park. We’ve got brunch, tapas, cocktails — and toilets!
2. Castle Vale Centre Park
Located in the northeast corner of the city, Castle Vale Centre Park is home to 6 acres of open space and some intriguing aviation history.
This picnic spot in Birmingham was originally an RAF airfield and Spitfire aircraft factory, both renowned for their roles in the Battle of Britain. Sandwiches and history, anyone?
Castle Vale Centre Park reopened in 2003 with a new, picnic-friendly look. Today, the site has a formal garden, seating areas, conservation zones, play areas, and sports pitches.
3. Cannock Chase Forest
Let’s move a little further from the city centre.
Cannock Chase Forest is one of the best spots for a picnic in Birmingham. The park has over 3,000 acres of land, woodland walks, outdoor activities, and plenty of wildlife. In fact, it is one of the largest country parks in England!
Parking charges start at £3.50 for up to one hour or £11 for all-day parking.
4. Canal Old Main Line
It’s not a best picnic spot in Birmingham list if we don’t mention the city’s iconic canals!
If you want to enjoy a meal deal while enjoying waterside views and the poignant canal history, the Old Main Line is the place to be. This line has 6.6 miles of walkways and plenty of canal-side benches.
Driving? The closest car parks to this canal include Q-Park Brindleyplace, Arena Central Car Park, and Paradise Circus.
5. New Hall Valley Country Park
Looking for a picnic spot in Birmingham that’ll wow your Instagram followers? Introducing New Hall Valley Country Park — an award-winning space and wildlife haven.
This spot is a 15-minute drive or 30-minute public transport journey from the city centre, right next to the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield. You can also access it from Pype Hayes Park.
So, why’s this park great for picnics?
New Hall Valley Country Park has over 200 acres of land, a 13th-century manor house, grazing meadows, and plenty of walking trails. Not to mention, there’s also a dedicated picnic area and two children’s playgrounds! Perfect.
6. Victoria Common
You’ll find Victoria Common, a 20-minute drive south of Birmingham city centre in Northfield.
First opened in 1897, this park consists of grassland, gardens, play areas, picnic areas, and sports facilities. It’s a local favourite for picnics and laid-back drinks in the summer months!
The nearest public toilets are available at the Northfield Shopping Centre next door.
Mark your calendars: Victoria Common is also home to the annual Northfield Carnival, a free family-friendly event featuring fairground rides, entertainment, and plenty of stalls.
7. Malvern Hills
Last but not least, the Malvern Hills.
The Malvern Hills are undoubtedly one of the best picnic spots around Birmingham and are the place to enjoy uninterrupted countryside views.
Here, you’ll find over 3,000 acres of land, winding walking trails, and lots of gorgeous picnic spots. Perfect if you’re planning a picnic in the busy summer season.
Planning a day with the little ones? You can also pop into the Malvern Museum to learn about the local prehistoric history or visit Boundless Outdoors for an activity day.
It takes 1 hour to reach this area from the city centre. The best carpark for this Birmingham picnic area is Upper Beacon Road, which costs £5.50 per day.
Last Thoughts on the Best Spots for a Picnic in Birmingham
So, there we have it!
The best picnic areas in Birmingham and the surrounding areas are ready and waiting for your visit. Pack your picnic, or you might end up with a hungry day at the park!
Swap picnic packing for chef-approved Mediterranean bites with Cafe Lovelife. We’re a Digbeth-based restaurant inspired by our team’s experience living and working across the Med.