Brutalist Birmingham?
12 people attending
13 places left
Back by popular demand!
We shall make our way from the start point past the Art Deco Styled Greyhound Stadium and Home of the Brummie Speedway before passing over the River Tame on a Grade II listed scheduled monument Zig-Zag parapet bridge, into Perry park to the reservoir and Alexandra Stadium.
This is where we shall join our first canal (Tame Valley) and its 13 locks, then we shall venture into Birmingham’s largest Cemetery. Upon departing the cemetery, we shall then join the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal passing under the Gravelly Hill Interchange (Spaghetti Junction) to Aston reservoir. From here we shall continue to Aston Hall, a grade I Jacobean House for the possibility of tea and cake. After refreshments we shall complete the loop passing “The Villa” and returning to Perry Barr Station.
The route takes in many hidden gems of a small northern suburban area of Birmingham (recently having regeneration following the Commonwealth Games of 2022.) Collisions of nature and wildlife, open green spaces and waterways sandwiched between historical industrial buildings and monuments, Urban art, residential areas, resting rounds and modern networks of roads.
This is a relatively easy walk, mostly flat terrain along the canal and footpaths, with an incline in a residential area. The canal path is well-trodden, and mainly paved or tarmac in construction. However, if it rains it could get slippery so, please wear appropriate footwear.
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What to bring
Please keep an eye on the forecast and dress appropriately.
Below is a standard kit-list you may wish to draw from:
Suitable well-fitted walking footwear is most important to keep you safe and comfortable. Sturdy trainers with cushioned soles and a good grip are often suitable if dry weather; but proper walking boots or shoes in wet conditions or on uneven ground are preferable. Smooth soles with no grip are not suitable. Thick, well-fitted socks cushion your feet, help to keep you dry, and prevent blisters.
Layers of clothing you can easily put on and take off according to changing temperature and weather conditions help to keep you warm and comfortable. Choose a base layer (vest or t-shirt), a mid layer (micro-fleece or long-sleeved shirt), and in cooler weather add an outer layer (windproof jacket or thick fleece). Breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry more quickly. Synthetic trousers are lighter and dry quicker than denim. Large pockets are useful. Demin jeans become heavy and cold in the rain and take ages to dry out. On warm days shorts may be suitable, but consider rough foliage such as brambles or nettles on some routes. Check for ticks when walking through long grass, etc. with bare legs. A hat or cap keeps your head and eyes shaded in direct sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from glare and make it easier to see where you are going. Sun block is advisable during prolonged exposure. In colder weather or a biting wind, a hat, scarf and gloves are essential.
Bring waterproofs to stay dry in wet weather. Water resistant fabric loses effectiveness over time. It will need to be re-proofed or replaced periodically. Bring a towel and a set of dry clothes to change into if possible. A backpack rain cover helps to keep belongings dry. Gaiters are optional and help to keep lower legs and feet dry. An umbrella is impractical while walking.
A comfortable backpack (with suitable capacity for your gear and lunch), allowing you to use your arms freely, is suitable for most day walks.
Walking sticks are optional, the walk is along predominently even laid track.
Bring any essential medicine you may need during the day for hay-fever, diabetes, or any on-going ailments or conditions.
Food & drink
Bring drinks of your choice (hot or cold) snacks and a packed lunch for the walk.
There is Greggs, Costa and Asda in the shopping centre if you need to grab anything before we set off. There are a few convenience stores en-route if needed or if additional hot/cold drinks or possibly ice creams are required.