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Elliott Brown History & heritage
20 Feb 2023 - Elliott Brown
Did you know?

West Bromwich - Take a Tour with us!

Head on the tram to Sandwell from Birmingham and get off in West Bromwich (Zone 2). There are some fascinating places to experience out in the neighbourhoods. Here's a look at West Bromwich. Well worth a visit. For history, there's some fascinating places to visit. There are some wonderful open spaces and some great places to relax.

Take our article.

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West Bromwich - Take a Tour with us!





Head on the tram to Sandwell from Birmingham and get off in West Bromwich (Zone 2). There are some fascinating places to experience out in the neighbourhoods. Here's a look at West Bromwich. Well worth a visit. For history, there's some fascinating places to visit. There are some wonderful open spaces and some great places to relax.

Take our article.


On your My Metro app, buy an off peak return Zone 1 - 2 ticket. Make your way to either Corporation Street or Bull Street tram stops (or any Zone 1 tram stops) in Birmingham City Centre. Catch an Urbos 3 or Urbos 100, West Midlands Metro tram towards Dudley Street Guns Village Tram Stop, where this tour will begin of West Bromwich!

 

Dudley Street Guns Village Tram Stop

Dudley Street Guns Village Tram Stop is at Dudley Street, West Bromwich B70 9LY

This will be our stop in West Bromwich, as you can start the walk from the top of the High Street. The tram stop is at Dudley Street in West Bromwich. This is good starting point for the Farley Clock Tower. The no 74 bus also stops near here. And there is the West Bromwich Parkway.

dndimg alt="Dudley Street Guns Village Tram Stop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMM%2045%20Dudley%20St%20Guns%20Vil%2019012023.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

From Dudley Street,  turn right, and walk towards Carters Green and the West Bromwich High Street. Directly in front of you is the Farley Clock Tower.

 

St Andrew's Carters Green

St Andrew's Carters Green is at 18 Dudley Street, West Bromwich, B70 9LR. At the junction with Carters Green.

A church at Carters Green in West Bromwich which is shared by both The Church of England and The Methodist Church. It was built from 1915 to 1924.

dndimg alt="St Andrew's Carters Green" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/St%20Andrews%20CG%20WB%20(Jan%202023)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Farley Clock Tower

Farley Clock Tower at Carter's Green, West Bromwich, B70 9LG

This Grade II listed red brick and terracotta clock tower dates to 1897, and was named after Reuben Farley (1826 - 1899), who was the first Mayor of West Bromwich, and served four terms. Located at Carters Green. There is three reliefs, a portrait of Reuben Farley, one of Oak House and one of West Bromwich Town Hall.

dndimg alt="Farley Clock Tower" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farley%20Clocktower%2019012023%20(10).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Old Hop Pole

The Old Hop Pole at 474 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 9LD. Corner of Guns Lane.

A traditional West Bromwich High Street pub near Guns Village called The Old Hop Pole.

dndimg alt="The Old Hop Pole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Old%20Hop%20Pole%20(Jan%202023)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Wheatsheaf

The Wheatsheaf at 379 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 9QW

A Real Ale public house on the High Street in the West Bromwich called The Wheatsheaf with Pure Black Country Holder's Golden.

dndimg alt="The Wheatsheaf" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Wheatsheaf%20WB%20(Jan%202023)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Garden of Remembrance

The Memorial Gardens in West Bromwich aka the Garden of Remembrance. High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8RJ.

A place for reflection in West Bromwich for those lost in conflicts of the past. The gardens is in front of the Sandwell Register Office at Highfields House.

dndimg alt="Memorial Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Mem%20Gardens%20WB%20(Apr%202011)%20(7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Highfields House

Sandwell Register Office at Highfields, High Street, West Bromwich. B70 8RJ.

This building is the location of the Sandwell Register Office, it is called Highfields, or Highfields House. A Grade II listed building since 1985, was four houses, now offices, probably built in the 1830s.

dndimg alt="Highfields" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Mem%20Gardens%20WB%20(Apr%202011)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Take a minor detour down Lodge Road, for a couple of former Sandwell College buildings, that used to be part of the West Bromwich Campus.

 

West Bromwich Grammar School

The former West Bromwich Grammar School was at Lodge Road, West Bromwich, B70 8DY

The West Bromwich Municipal Secondary School was built in 1902 as the West Bromwich Institute at Lodge Road, funded by George Kenrick. The school was expanded several times, and later became a Grammar School in 1944. The actress Madeleine Carroll was a pupil here. The school moved to new buildings in Clarkes Lane in 1964. For a period from at least the 1990s to the early 2010s, the building was part of Sandwell College as the Hair Beauty and Holistic Centre. The college moved out in 2012 to a purpose built building on the West Bromwich Ringway. The building was empty until about 2018 when Ideal Travel Services took up a unit in the building.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Grammar School" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB%20Gram%20School%20(Apr%202011)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Ryland Memorial School of Art

What is now the British Muslim School is at Lodge Road, West Bromwich, B70 8NX

This red brick building on Lodge Road in West Bromwich, was built as an Art school in 1902 by Wood & Kendrick of Birmingham. It had been part of Sandwell College, as the Ryland Building until the early 2010s (before the college moved to a modern building on the West Bromwich Ringway). Empty for a few years, by 2017 it had become the British Muslim School and Latifiah Fultali Complex.

dndimg alt="Ryland Memorial School" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Ryland%20Mem%20School%20(Apr%202011)%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Head back to the High Street, for the Town Hall and Library next.

 

West Bromwich Town Hall

West Bromwich Town Hall is at High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8DJ. Corner with Lodge Road.

A town hall in West Bromwich from 1874 to 1875, on what was the Lodge Estate. It was the headquarters of the county borough of West Bromwich and remained the seat of local government after Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council was formed in 1974. However, the council moved to a modern facility in Oldbury in 1989. The building has been Grade II listed since 1987.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Town Hall" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/West%20Brom%20Town%20Hall%20(Apr%202011)%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

West Bromwich Central Library

West Bromwich Central Library is at 316 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8DZ

Originally a library was built into the town hall of West Bromwich of 1874-5. But a purpose built public library was built next door in 1907, by Stephen J Holliday, of red brick with yellow terracotta dressings. The building was a gift of Andrew Carnegie to the Borough. It has been a Grade II listed building since 1987, and is known as the Central Library, West Bromwich.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Central Library" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB%20Central%20Library%20(Jan%202023).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Kenrick & Jefferson Building

The Kenrick & Jefferson Building is at 1, Astle Park, High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8NS

Red brick and terracotta offices built on the West Bromwich High Street in 1883 for Kenrick & Jefferson. It was a Printing Works founded by John Arthur Kenrick and Frederick Jefferson. They bought the Free Press newspaper in 1878 to help promote Liberalism.

dndimg alt="Kenrick & Jefferson" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kenrick%20Jefferson%20(Jan%202023).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Cross in Hand

The Cross in Hand sculpture outside the Wesley Methodist Church,  291 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8ND

The sculpture called Cross in Hand was originally unveiled in October 1989. It previously stood at the entrance to the Duchess Parade, but was removed in 2012 to make way for improvements to the pedestrian High Street, carried out by Fitzgerald Civil Engineering Contractors. It was created by Chris Dunseath and is dedicated to John Wesley, preacher and religious reformer, who preached many times in the 18th century in West Bromwich, Wednesbury and Tipton. His biblical teaching resulted in a revival of the Christian Church and the founding of the Methodist movement. The hand and cross is a symbolic representation of his message being accepted by the people.

dndimg alt="Cross in Hand" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Cross%20Hand%20(Jul%202017)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Now briefly turn onto St Michael's Street for the Billiard Hall.

 

The Catholic Church of St Michael and the Holy Angels

The Catholic Church of St Michael and the Holy Angels is at 260 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8AQ. On the corner with St Michael Street.

A Roman Catholic Church in West Bromwich Town Centre. The Roman Catholic Church of St Michael and The Holy Angels West Bromwich was built from 1875-77 by Dunn and Hansom. The tower and spire was added by 1911 by Edmund Kirby. Built of  Red brick with some stone dressings and tile roof. A Grade II listed building since 1974. It is close to the West Bromwich High Street.

dndimg alt="St Michael and Holy Angels" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/St%20Michael%20HA%20WB%2007022023%20(3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Billiard Hall

The Billiard Hall is at St Michael's Street, West Bromwich Ringway, West Bromwich, B70 7AB

Built as a snooker and billiard hall in 1913 in West Bromwich, since the early 21st century, the building has been used as a JD Wetherspoon Free House.

dndimg alt="Billiard Hall" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Billiard%20Hall%20WB%20(May%202017).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Head up New Street from St Michael's Street towards New Square shopping centre.  Perhaps stop for a coffee at Costa Coffee? On sunny blue sky days, it does get a bit bright in that Costa. There is other venues for lunch here including Nandos and a pub called the Interceptor.

 

The Sandwell

The Sandwell is at 277 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8ND. Corner with New Street.

A corner public house in West Bromwich at High Street and New Street. Now called The Sandwell. It was known as The Goose until at least 2015-16. And was associated in the past with Mitchells & Butlers. Now owned by Great UK Pubs.

dndimg alt="The Sandwell" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The%20Sandwell%20WB%20(Jan%202023)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Madeleine Carroll Memorial

The Madeleine Carroll Memorial on New Street, West Bromwich, B70 7PG

A 2006-7 memorial to the actress Madeleine Carroll (1906-87), in the shape of a lollipop stick. It's located outside of The Public (now Central St Michael's Sixth Form College) on New Street in West Bromwich. The world famous actress was born in West Bromwich in 1906. She starred in Alfred Hitchock's 'The 39 Steps' amongst many other films. She also won awards for her humanitarian work during the Second World War.

dndimg alt="Madeleine Carroll" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Mad%20Carroll%20The%20Public%20(Jul%202017).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Central St Michael's Sixth Form College

Central St Michael's Sixth Form College is at New Street, West Bromwich, B70 7PG

This building was originally a public arts venue called The Public, designed by Will Alsop. It was fully open by 2009, but it closed it's doors by late 2013 and was handed over to Sandwell College, where it became Central Sixth Sandwell College in 2014. By 2018 it was renamed to Central St Michael's Sixth Form College (following a merger between Sandwell College and Cadbury College). 

dndimg alt="The Public" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Central%20Sixth%20West%20Bromwich%20(July%202017)%20(4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Celebration WBA statue

The Celebration Statue at New Square shopping centre, West Bromwich, B70 7PP

The Three Degrees: Brendon Batson (born 1953), Laurie Cummingham (1956-89) and Cyrille Regis (1958-2018). Three former black football players for West Bromwich Albion during the 1970s and '80s. The bronze statue was unveiled in May 2019, sculpted by the artist Graham Ibbeson. Their appearance in top flight football, led to more black footballers being accepted in the game. Located in New Square shopping centre, West Bromwich.

dndimg alt="The Celebration" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Celebration%20WBA%20(Jan%202023).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Portrait bust of Phil Lynott

The Phil Lynott memorial at New Square, West Bromwich, B70 7PG

A portrait bust / bronze statue of the singer Phil Lynott (1949-86) unveiled in August 2021 on what would have been his 72nd birthday. He was a member of the band Thin Lizzy. It's located in New Square, West Bromwich behind Central St Michael's Sixth Form College (formerly The Public). It was sculpted by Luke Perry.

dndimg alt="Phil Lynott" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Phil%20Lynott%20WB%2019012023%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Walk back along New Street, then turn left onto the High Street. You will walk past the markets and shops. Head towards Dartmouth Square where there is a memorial fountain and a clock.

 

I am the King of the Castle

I am the King of the Castle sculpture on the High Street, West Bromwich, B70 7LX

A bronze sculpture of a Lion King sitting on top of a castle, which is on top of an elephant. It was unveiled originally on the 30th January 1990 by the then leader of Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, Councillor C. R. Davis. The sculptor was Laura Ford and it was name I am the King of the Castle. It was moved from an entrance of the Kings Square Shopping Centre in 2012 for repairs and restoration to this location in 2014 on the High Street in West Bromwich near St Michael Street and New Street.

dndimg alt="I am the King of the Castle" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/King%20Castle%20WB%20(May%202017)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Elizabeth Farley Memorial Fountain

The Elizabeth Farley Memorial Fountain in Dartmouth Square att 161 High St, West Bromwich B70 7QX

This drinking fountain and canopy was originally erected in 1885 in Dartmouth Park by Alderman Farley J.P. the son of Elizabeth Farley, of whom the fountain was in memory of. In 1987, the drinking fountain and canopy was relocated to the High Street at Dartmouth Square, around the time it was granted Grade II listing status. It used to be in a dark red colour, and a canopy over it from the Farley Centre was removed between 2012 and 2014. It was renovated and repainted in blue and green in 2022.

dndimg alt="Farley Fountain" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farley%20Fountain%20WB%2019012023.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Kenrick's Clock

Kenrick's Clock is in Dartmouth Square at High Street, West Bromwich, B70 7QU

This Grade II listed clock dates to 1912, and was presented to the Borough by the then Mayor, Councillor J Archibald Kenrick. The clock was relocated in 2000 from a traffic island to it's current position in Dartmouth Square. In 2022, the clock was refurbished and repainted from it's old red colours to blue and green.

dndimg alt="Kenrick's Clock" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kenricks%20Clock%20WB%2019012023.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

From Dartmouth Square, cross over at the lights at Bull Street, and continue down the High Street. Several Indian / Asian related restaurants and bars down here. The cross over the lights at Trinity Way.

 

The Great Lion Bar & Grill

The Great Lion Bar & Grill is at 43 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 6PB

A red brick and stone building, built as the Lewisham Hotel in 1887. To the rear was the Lewisham Brewery, the architect was Arthur James Price. In recent years the building has been Desi Junction, and since 2021-22, as The Great Lion Bar & Grill, an Indian restaurant.

dndimg alt="Great Lion" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Great%20Lion%20BG%20WB%20(Jan%202023).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

 

Continue down the High Street, which then becomes Birmingham Road. At West Bromwich Interchange, which is M5, Junction 1, there is pavements around it. Wait for the traffic lights to stop the traffic before crossing safely. As you will go past a Georgian landmark, the only surviving building from Sandwell Hall, it's lodge!

 

The Lodge of Sandwell Hall

The Lodge of Sandwell Hall at West Bromwich Interchange, West Bromwich, B71 4EA

This remarkable survival might date to the early 18th century, it was the Lodge of Sandwell Hall. The remains of the hall are at Sandwell Valley Country Park (not far from the Sandwell Priory ruins). It is thought that William Smith designed this lodge. The M5 motorway was opened in stages between 1962 and 1972, and this lodge is a feature in West Bromwich for drivers around the Interchange. You can also see it from the top deck of the no 74 bus.

dndimg alt="Lodge of Sandwell Hall" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Lodge%20Sandwell%20Hall%2019012023%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

From West Bromwich Interchange, walk down Birmingham Road, then cross the footbridge, as you will be approaching the home stadium of West Bromwich Albion Football Club. The Hawthorns. There is also a Starbucks Drive Thru, McDonald's and Greggs nearby.

 

West Bromwich Dartmouth Cricket Club

West Bromwich Dartmouth Cricket Club is at Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B69 4EX

A cricket club founded in West Bromwich in 1834. They are a friendly, sociable and inclusive cricket club. The are close to The Hawthorns (West Bromwich Albion FC) and Sandwell Park Golf Club.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Dartmouth Cricket Club" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB%20DCC%20(Jan%202023)%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Allied Bakeries West Bromwich

Allied Bakeries West Bromwich is at Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B71 4JH

Part of a network of bakeries across the UK, this is the Allied Bakeries located in West Bromwich, opposite The Hawthorns. Allied Bakeries was founded in 1935 when bakery entrepreneur Willard Garfield Weston set up Allied Bakeries and sister company Allied Mills. That group of mills and bakeries is the foundation of what was to become a great British business – Associated British Foods, a global PLC, still run by the Weston family.

dndimg alt="Allied Bakeries West Bromwich" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Allied%20BWB%20(Jan%202023)%20(4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Greggs - formerly The Hawthorns Public House

Greggs is at 2 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B71 4JZ. Corner of Halfords Lane.

A house built in circa 1840. It was a public house called The Hawthorns (used by the WBA Supporters Throstle Club). But has been been part of the Greggs bakery chain since 2015. The building is Grade II listed.

dndimg alt="Hawthorns Greggs" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hawthorns%20Greggs%20(Jan%202023).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Hawthorns - home of West Bromwich Albion

The Hawthorns at West Bromwich Albion Football Club, Halfords Lane, West Bromwich, B71 4LF. Also on Birmingham Road.

West Bromwich Albion has been located at The Hawthorns since 1900, the stadium is located on Birmingham Road, on the corner with Halfords Lane. It is here that you will find the 2014 statue of Tony 'Bomber' Brown, WBA's highest goal scorer!

dndimg alt="The Hawthorns" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hawthorns%20WBA%2019012023%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Tony 'Bomber' Brown WBA statue

The Tony 'Bomber' Brown statue outside The East Stand, The Hawthorns, West Bromwich,  B21 0BH

A bronze statue located at The Hawthorns football stadium, home of West Bromwich Albion. Tony Brown (born 1945) was WBA's highest goal scorer. The statue was sculpted by Jonathan Wylder and unveiled in November 2014. It was removed for cleaning in 2020 before it was returned in 2021. It can be seen from Birmingham Road through the Jeff Astle (1942 - 2002) gates.

dndimg alt="Tony Brown" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hawthorns%20WBA%2019012023%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Hawthorns Tram Stop

The Hawthorns Tram Stop at The Hawthorns Station, between Halfords Lane and Middlemore Road, West Bromwich, B66 2HB

Enter The Hawthorns Tram Stop from Middlemore Road in West Bromwich. There is a path called Roger Horton Way from there. Just head down the steps and wait for your tram back to Birmingham.

dndimg alt="The Hawthorns" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMM%20Hawthorns%2019012023%20(5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

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Elliott Brown History & heritage
25 Jan 2023 - Elliott Brown
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Eastside and Aston University to Nechells - Take a Tour with us!

Here is our second tour around Nechells. This time we start at the University Quarter in Eastside near Birmingham City University (BCU) and Aston University before making our way into Nechells via Aston Cross.  Of course, you could take the tour the other way.

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Eastside and Aston University to Nechells - Take a Tour with us!





Here is our second tour around Nechells. This time we start at the University Quarter in Eastside near Birmingham City University (BCU) and Aston University before making our way into Nechells via Aston Cross.  Of course, you could take the tour the other way.


Nechells Tour Two: Eastside via Aston University and Aston Cross to Nechells

Arrive in Birmingham City Centre, get off your bus near Moor Street Queensway, or off your train at Birmingham New Street or Birmingham Moor Street. From Moor Street Queensway, walk down Albert Street between the Clayton Hotel and HS2. Then head onto Park Street before entering the park.

 

Eastside City Park

The park opened alongside Millennium Point and Curzon Street in 2012, and was the first new City Park for a century. Part of the park in recent years hase been taken over by HS2.

dndimg alt="Eastside City Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Pink%20cherry%20blossom%20ECP%2017042022%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Woodman

A public house on the corner of New Canal Street and Albert Street (now part of Eastside City Park). It was built in 1896-97 by James & Lister Lea. It was the only pub to survive the HS2 works, but it sadly closed down in the summer of 2022.

dndimg alt="The Woodman" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curzon%20St%20Stn%20wraps%2029012022%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Curzon Street Station

This was the original terminus of the London & Birmingham Railway opening in 1838 at the corner of New Canal Street and Curzon Street. It's use declined when Birmingham New Street opened in 1854, and it closed for passengers in 1893. It was used for goods until 1966. And Parcelforce used the rear of the site until 2006. It is now part of the HS2 redevelopment, and the building will be fully restored, hopefully reopening by the 2030s, almost 200 years since it was first built!

dndimg alt="Curzon Street Station" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curzon%20St%20Station%2024072022%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Millennium Point

A mixed use venue, it opened in 2001 near Curzon Street in Eastside. It is home to Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum, as well as Birmingham City University and Birmingham Metropolitan College. There used to be a IMAX cinema / Giant Screen Cinema here, but is now Platform, a venue hire space.

dndimg alt="Millennium Point" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Millennium%20Point%20(Apr%202021)%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum

A paid for science museum located within Millennium Point, it opened in 2001. The main entrance used to be via the escalators to Level 2, but after the pandemic was moved to the ground floor. It replaced the Birmingham Museum of Science & Industry that used to be on Newhall Street in the Jewellery Quarter from 1951 to 1997. Most contents from that was moved here, other than those that went to the Birmingham Museum Collection Centre.

dndimg alt="Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Thinktank%20BSM%20MP%2017072021.JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Parkside Building

Starting from 2011, Birmingham City University started to move their main campus from Perry Barr to Eastside. The Parkside Building next to Millennium Point was the first building to be completed and opened in 2013. On the corner of Cardigan Street with Eastside City Park (and near Curzon Street).

dndimg alt="The Parkside Building" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Parkside%20Building%20BCU%20(Jun%202013).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Curzon Building

The second BCU Central Campus building to be built was The Curzon Building from 2013 to 2015, on the corner of Cardigan Street and Curzon Street. It was followed by Curzon B to the back from 2016 to 2018, near Gopsal Street and the Digbeth Branch Canal (between Ashted locks 4 and 5).

dndimg alt="The Curzon Building" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curzon%20Building%20BCU%20(Jul%202015).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Now walk up to the end of Curzon Street to Curzon Circle. Then cross over at the traffic lights towards Compass.

 

Compass Birmingham 

New student accommodation at Curzon Circle, between Vauxhall Road and Lawley Middleway. It was completed in 2022, and close to the HS2 line. It replaced the Curzon Gate student accommodation that HS2 demolished in 2019. Compass Birmingham was built on the site of Professional Music Technology (who moved to the Trident Retail Park in 2019) between 2021 and 2022.

dndimg alt="Compass" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/20221226_120452[1].jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

The White Tower

The White Tower aka Moriarty's is a traditional public house at the corner of Vauxhall Road and Lawley Middleway at Curzon Circle. It is near Eastside and the HS2 development.

dndimg alt="The White Tower" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/20221226_120117[1].jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Next walk up Lawley Middleway and cross back over to Eastside, then pass University Locks, and walk down Penn Street to Belmont Row.

 

Lock Keepers Cottage

A cottage on the Digbeth Branch Canal, near the Ashted Locks flight (close to Ashted Lock 4). It might date to 1891. The last owner moved out by 2007, after the property was compulsory purchased by the Council, ahead of the Eastside Locks redevelopment. In 2019 Lucy McLauchlan (Beats 13) painted her distinct street art in the boarded up windows and door.

dndimg alt="Lock Keepers Cottage" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Photo%2009-01-2023,%2013%2054%2018%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Now walk along Gopsal Street, before heading up Cardigan Street.

 

Eagle & Ball by BCUSU

An Ansell's pub built in the 1840s. By the 1960s it was renamed to the Moby Dicks. Now a Grade II listed building, lovingly restored and incorpoated into Birmingham City University. It was renamed back to The Eagle & Ball. It is on the corner of Penn Street and Gopsal Street, and near The Curzon Building, as well as the Joseph Priestley Building.

dndimg alt="Eagle & Ball" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Photo%2009-01-2023,%2013%2054%2018%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Steamhouse by Birmingham City University

The Belmont Row Works built in 1899 as the Headquarters for the Eccles Rubber and Cycle Company, and it housed rubber manufactory. By 1918 it was occupied by the Co-Operative Society, which used the premises to make underwear. In 1931 the factory was making pianos, and by 1941 bedsteads. Was destroyed by a fire in 2007. Derelict for over a decade until Birmingham City University had it restored and extended as Steamhouse from 2020 to 2022.

dndimg alt="Steamhouse" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Steamhouse%20BCU%2008012023%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Cross over Jennens Road between Cardigan Street and Woodcock Street. Turn left towards the Student Accommodation, then walk past the Aston Brain Centre to the Aston University main building on Aston Street.

 

Aston University Green

If walking past Aston University Library, on the left is the University Green. When the student accommodation was rebuilt in the 2010s here, the area was re-landscaped. The Chancellor's Lake has been there for decades and the Peace sculpture dating to 1985 in the lake was by William Pye. The Students Union relocated to a new building on campus in 2019 called the Sir Adrian Cadbury Building. 

dndimg alt="Aston University Green" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Aston%20Uni%20Green%20(May%202021)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Aston University

Aston University was founded in 1966, but it began as the College of Advanced Technology with buildings dating to 1949-55 and 1957-65. The University celebrated it's 50th birthday in 2016, and was The Guardian University of the Year 2020. The campus at Aston Triangle has been redeveloped over the 2010s.

dndimg alt="Aston University" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Aston%20Uni%20Green%20(May%202021)%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

If you want a drink, pop into Costa Coffee on Aston Street. Tesco Express is next door. There is a view in Costa towards the Sacks of Potatoes pub.

 

Sacks of Potatoes

A traditional public house in what was the Gosta Green area of Birmingham, it probably dates to the late 19th century. It's near Woodcock Street, on the Aston University campus.

dndimg alt="Sacks of Potatoes" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Sacks%20of%20Potatoes%2008012023%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute

The building opened as the Delicia Cinema in 1923, next to the Sacks of Potatoes pub in Gosta Green, Birmingham. After the war the cinema closed and was taken over by the BBC as television studios until they moved to Pebble Mill in 1971. Aston University took over the building, later housing the Birmingham Arts Lab in 1976. Various other uses until it was a Dillons (later Waterstones) bookstore. The building was empty from 2003, but was converted into the Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI)  in the 2010s. Only the facade of the cinema survives.

dndimg alt="EBRI" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/EBRI%20(Jan%202023).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Gosta Green

A public house in a red brick building dating to 1906, originally built as offices for Ansells, later the Holt Brewery. After the brewery closed down in the early 1970s, the building was converted into a pub called the Pot of Beer, but was later renamed to the Gosta Green. It is on the corner of Woodcock Street and Holt Street.

dndimg alt="The Gosta Green" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The%20Gosta%20Green%2008012023%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Walk down Lister Street, then turn left at Dartmouth Middleway, and walk towards Dartmouth Circus. Head down the subway, where you will find the Boulton & Watt Engine of 1817.

 

Dartmouth Circus - site of the Boulton & Watt Engine of 1817

This is a Grazebrook Engine built to the designs of James Watt in 1817 at a foundry in Soho, Birmingham, by Grazebrook & Whitehouse for their Netherton foundry in Dudley, Worcestershire (now West Midlands). It was retired in 1912, remaining on site as a standby engine. It was dismantled in 1964, and is now on display at Dartmouth Circus. Made of cast iron, it is 28 feet high, and weighs 10 long tons.

dndimg alt="Boulton & Watt Engine" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/bolton%20&%20watt%20engine.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown
 

Leave Dartmouth Circus via a subway for Aston Road North. Follow the pavement towards Aston Cross, where you will find a clock.

 

Aston Cross Clock

A Historic landmark. The Aston Cross Clock Tower was made in 1891 of iron, and has four clock faces. It was near the Ansells Brewery (on site from 1881 to 1981) and the HP Sauce factory (late 19th century until 2007). The site today is East End Foods. The island is between Aston Road, North, Park Lane, Rocky Lane and the Lichfield Road.

dndimg alt="Aston Cross Clock" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Aston%20Cross%20Clock%20Jack%202021.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Aston Cross Tavern

A former public house, Aston Cross Tavern  (also called at one point The Golden Cross) was on the corner of the Lichfield Road and Rocky Lane at Aston Cross, Birmingham. It was last called O'Reillys, closed by 2012, now flats. There has been a pub on this site since the late 18th century, but this building probably dates to the late 19th century. It was built for the Holt Brewery, and later owned by the Ansells Brewery.

dndimg alt="The Golden Cross" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Golden%20Cross%20AC%20(Dec%202016)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Aston Cross Library

A public library built on the Lichfield Road in Aston in 1903. It was opposite the Ansells Brewery and HP Sauce factory (until they closed down). The building hasn't been a library for a long time, there is rooms to let inside. Funds to built it was provided by Andrew Carnegie, on a site gifted by William and Edward Ansell. The library closed during the 1970s.

dndimg alt="Aston Cross Library" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Aston%20Cross%20Library%20(Dec%202016)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Next walk along Rocky Lane, turn onto Chester Street, then Avenue Road, and Rupert Street.

 

Nechells Wellbeing Centre

This facility is located on Rupert Street in Nechells. It shares a building with the Nechells Community Sports Centre.

dndimg alt="Nechells Wellbeing Centre" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/20221126_112232[1].jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

St Matthew's Church

St Matthew's Church is a Grade II listed building, built 1839-40 by William Thomas of Leamington. The first of 5 churches to be built by the Birmingham Church Building Society. Near Nechells Parkway and Duddeston Manor Road.

dndimg alt="St Matthews Church" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Nechells%20St%20Matthews%20Church%20-%2023rd%20November%202022.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Loxton REC Play Park

Located in Nechells near Duddeston Manor Road, Wardlow Road, Howford Grove and Little Hall Road. It features a basketball court and play area.

dndimg alt="Loxton REC Play Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Nechells%20Loxton%20Rec%20Play%20Park%20Basketball%20Court%20-%2023rd%20November%202022.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

The Nimab Welfare Trust

A mosque and cultural centre, located in a former pub called The Winning Post. The Nimab Welfare Trust appears to have opened here around 2010, on Great Francis Street.

dndimg alt="Nimab Welfare Trust" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/20221207_125223[1].jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Heartlands Academy

A secondary school located on Great Francis Street in Vauxhall, near Nechells, for children aged 11 to 16. Now an E-Act Academy.

dndimg alt="Heartlands Academy" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/20221208_132308[1].jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Erksine Street Park

A small park located between Erksine Street, Great Francis Street and Pitney Street in the Vauxhall / Nechells area of Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Erksine St pocket park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Erksine%20Street%20PP%20(Sept%202018)%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Birmingham Museum Collection Centre

The Birmingham Museum Collection Centre is located on Dollman Street in Nechells near Duddeston Station. The store of the Birmingham Museum Trust's collection that is not on display. Sometimes open to the public on open days.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Museum Collection Centre" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BMCC%20Warehouse%20(Sept%202018).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Walk up Dollman Street, Duddeston Mill Road, Little Hall Road, then go onto Duddeston Manor Road, cut past High Tower to Nechells Parkway, then cross over to Bodmin Grove and into Oliver Street.

 

Masjid Quba

A mosque and Islamic Centre on Oliver Street in Nechells. It was previously home to the United Reformed Church, but has been a mosque since at least 2015.

dndimg alt="Masjid quba" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Masjid%20quba%2017012023%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Nechells POD

A community centre on Oliver Street in Nechells. It is also where the Bloomsbury Library is based now.

dndimg alt="Nechells POD" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/20221125_094221[1].jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Walk up Rupert Street, pass Cromwell J & I School (see Nechells tour 1), then Walter Street and Long Acre.

 

St Joseph's Church

St Joseph's is a Grade II listed building and a Roman Catholic church. Was built as a cemetery chapel in 1850 by Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin. Enlarged in 1872 by Edward Welby Pugin. Restored in 1945 by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. Long Acre in Nechells.

dndimg alt="St Josephs Church" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/1669134657781.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

Church of God of Prophecy Nechells Outreach Centre

The Nechells Outreach Centre is located in this historic church building on Long Acre in Nechells. It was formerly a Presbyterian chapel of 1888-9, now the Church of God of Prophecy.

dndimg alt="Nechells Outreach Centre" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/ProPhotography_Picture_2023_Photo%2005-01-2023,%2014%2026%2010.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Jack Babington

 

From here, either walk to Aston Station, or find the nearest bus stop to return to Birmingham City Centre. You should be able to catch the no 66 bus from Long Acre.

 

End of tour.

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60 passion points
Elliott Brown People & community
31 Oct 2022 - Elliott Brown
Inspiration
Northfield - Take a tour with us!

Northfield - Take a tour with us!

Birmingham has much more to offer than its magnificent city centre. There are some fascinating places to experience out in the neighbourhoods. Here's a look at Northfield. Well worth a visit. For history, there's St Laurence's Church and the Great Stone. Victoria Common is a great open space and not far away is Manor Farm Park.

Take our article.

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Northfield - Take a tour with us!





Birmingham has much more to offer than its magnificent city centre. There are some fascinating places to experience out in the neighbourhoods. Here's a look at Northfield. Well worth a visit. For history, there's St Laurence's Church and the Great Stone. Victoria Common is a great open space and not far away is Manor Farm Park.

Take our article.


How to get to Northfield?

Take the no 61 or 63 bus from Birmingham and travel along Bristol Road South to Northfield High Street; catch a train on the Cross City Line to Northfield station; or take a cycle ride which will take in some great sights along the canal.

If travelling by train, we recommend you buy a ticket in advance using the West Midlands Railway app and you will get a QR code to scan at the ticket gates at Birmingham New Street. Paper tickets are still available to buy at the automatic ticket machines or at staffed ticket desks.

The train takes a scenic route via Five Ways, Birmingham University, Selly Oak and Bournville, before arriving at Northfield. Some sections of this run alongside the Worcester & Birmingham Canal.

 

Northfield Station

Welcome to Northfield Station. You get off the train at Platform 4. Head towards the exit via the subway. You can either take the exit towards Station Road, or via the subway head to the station building and exit at Copse Close via Quarry Lane.

dndimg dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Northfield%20Station%20(Apr%202018)%20(2).JPG" />

Take the Station Road exit if you want to head to the old Northfield Village, where you will find St Laurence's Church and the Great Stone Inn.

From Station Road, walk up to Church Hill Road. Walk under the railway bridge, until you get to St Laurence's Church.

 

St Laurence's Church

St Laurence's Church has origins going back to the 12th century, with elements dating from the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries. The church is part of a conservation area.

The last major change to the church took place in the year 1900, when G F Bodley built the north aisle in the 14th century style.

The major 13th century feature is the chancel. The south chancel and lower stage of the west tower also dates to the 13th Century.

A 4 bay octagonal pier arcade at the south chancel dates to the 14th Century.

The upper tower was built during the 15th Century.

The roof is most likely a 15th century replacement of an earlier 13th century nave roof.

The church has Royal Arms from the Hanoverian period. The church was built of sandstone.

dndimg alt="St Laurence's Church, Northfield" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/St%20Laurence%20Church%20Northfield%20(5).jpg" />

After the church, it is a short distance to the Great Stone Inn and the Village Pound, at the corner of Church Hill and Church Road.

 

The Great Stone and the Village Pound

The Great Stone Inn is an historic public house at the corner of Church Hill and Church Road.

The Inn probably dates back to the 18th century. 

It is a timber-framed building with painted brick and a tile roof.

The Inn is close to St Laurence Church in the historic old Northfield village. It is now a traditional pub with a beer garden run by Great Pubs.

dndimg alt="The Great Stone" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Great%20Stone%20Inn%20Northfield%20(2).JPG" />

A few meters away on Church Road is The Village Pound, and the current location of the historic Great Stone which the Inn was named after.

Dating back to the 17th century, The Village Pound was a high walled structure used to keep livestock in, such as stray cattle, pigs and sheep.

The Village Pound is now the home of the Great Stone, moved by Birmingham City Council to this site in 1954. It is a glacial bolder formed in a volcanic eruption 450 - 460 million years ago. 

For generations The Great Stone was at the corner of Church Road and Church Hill in Northfield, where it protected the Inn wall. A glacial erratic bolder that was former in an explosive volcanic eruption during the Ordovician period, 450-460 million years ago. During the ice age, possibly up to 400,000 years ago, it was carried by an ice sheet from the Snowdon area of North Wales and deposited with many others around Northfield when the area was a frozen wasteland.

Birmingham City Council moved the boulder to this site in 1954 for road safety reasons.

dndimg alt="Village Pound" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Village%20Pound%20Northfield%20(3).jpg" />

Next, we recommend taking a short walk up Church Road towards Great Stone Road.

Cross over the road at the traffic lights, then walk towards Northfield Library.

Walk up Meeting House Lane to get into Victoria Common Recreation Ground.

 

Victoria Common

This is a great recreation ground hidden behind Northfield Shopping Centre.

You will find playgrounds and tennis courts here plus paths for walking. There's plenty of green open spaces to enjoy.

dndimg alt="Victoria Common" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Victoria%20Common%20Northfield%20(Jun%202010)%20(2).JPG" />

After your walk round Victoria Common head to the path that leads to the Bristol Road South, and walk down Northfield High Street for a bit of retail therapy. 

You can alternatively walk down Sir Herbert Austin Way and pop into the Starbucks Coffee Drive Thru. Alternatively, there are many cafes and places to eat in Northfield.

If you fancy a meal in a traditional pub, in addition to the Great Stone Inn, there's The Black Horse located on Bristol Road South (near Frankley Beeches Road).

 

The Black Horse

The Black Horse opened on the 1st December1929  and was designed for the Davenport Brewery,by Francis Goldsbrough (from the local architectural practice of Bateman and Bateman).

The Black Horse is one of the largest and finest examples of a Brewer’s Tudor-style public house in the country.

It was registered a Grade II listed building in 1981. JD Wetherspoon refurbished the pub in May 2010. 

dndimg alt="The Black Horse" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black%20Horse%20Northfield%20(Oct%202020).jpg" />

If you are not too full, next have a walk to Ley Hill Park. Leave the Black Horse, and head past Sainsbury's via Sir Herbert Austin Way. Or if you had a toastie or panini with your coffee at Starbucks, you just have to walk up Vineyard Road, past Bellfield Junior School. The park is at the top of the hill.

 

Ley Hill Park

You can enter this park from the entrance at Merritt's Brook Lane. Take any path you want for your walk, or walk onto the grass if it's not too wet. Head up to the top of the hill for views down to the Northfield High Street.

There is a play area, plus benches to sit on.

You can exit the park at Merritt's Hill and walk down the road towards Brookside.

dndimg dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Ley%20Hill%20Park%20(April%202017)%20(5).jpg" />

Now head into Merritt's Brook Greenway, and walk along the path, following the Merritt's Brook towards Bell Hill. Cross over the road at the traffic lights near Whitehill Lane and enter Manor Farm Park.

 

Manor Farm Park

This park was once the home of George and Elizabeth Cadbury, who lived at the Northfield Manor House (until their respective deaths).

The park opened to the public in 1951.

Follow the paths around the park with a 2 kilometre walking route. See our suggested trail HERE.

You will walk past a lake. The Manor House is nearby. The park also has a play area and old farm buildings. dndimg dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Manor%20Farm%20Park%20(April%202017)%20(1)%20.jpg" />

If you exit near the lake at New House Farm Drive, perhaps have a detour up to the Northfield Manor House? Just walk until you get to Manor House Drive.

 

Northfield Manor House

The original house was built in the early 1800s.

George Cadbury purchased the property in 1890, and he moved in with his wife Elizabeth in 1894.

They named it Manor Farm.

The lived here until his death in 1922 and her's in 1951.

The University of Birmingham took it over, and converted it into a hall of residence from 1958, but it ceased this function by 2007.

Years of dereliction lead to arsonists (teenagers) burning it down in 2014.

Partial demolition in 2015, followed by a full restoration between 2019 and 2021.

dndimg alt="The Manor House, Northfield" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Northfield%20Manor%20House%2010042022%20(6).jpg" />

Head down Manor House Drive, back onto New House Farm Drive and onto Bristol Road South.

Leave the park at Bristol Road South. A short walk away is another property once owned by George Cadbury. This is the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

 

Royal Orthopaedic Hospital

A house called The Woodlands was built on this site around 1840.

It was later to become one of George Cadbury's homes, who in 1907 gave it to the then named "Cripples Children's Union".

After various mergers, what has now become known as the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, was firmly based on this site.

At one point they had an Outpatients Department on Broad Street at Islington House (this lasted until the end of the 20th century). One of the surgeons based here was Mr Naughton Dunn (from 1913 to 1939), who was a national pioneer and Birmingham's first orthopaedic specialist.

The hospital has been part of the NHS since it's founding in 1948.

dndimg alt="Royal Orthopaedic Hospital" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/ROH%20Northfield%20(Mar%202012)%20(4).JPG" />

We hope you enjoyed this tour of Northfield. 

If you have return tickets on the train, walk back to Northfield Station. Alternatively, head to a bus stop on Bristol Road South. If getting a bus, we recommend that you have a Swift card, and buy your ticket at National Express West Midlands in advance. Otherwise, you will need to pay a cash fare, or use contactless. Alternatively, you can have the NXWM app and buy your ticket on there. Bus routes include the 20, 61 and 63 from National Express West Midlands or the 144 from First Midland Red.

dndimg dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Northfield%20BRS%20(Feb%202019)%20(3).jpg" />

Photography by Elliott Brown

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80 passion points
Daniel Sturley Rivers, lakes & canals
02 Aug 2021 - Daniel Sturley
Inspiration

A Short Walk along the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal Between Newhall and Livery Street

One of the most interesting stretches of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal can be found in the City Centre between the Newhall Street Bridge and the Livery Street Rail Bridge, unless you are somewhat claustrophobic! Mind your head and enjoy a great urbanscape away from the bustle of the Jewellery Quarter.

A gallery of photos along this route on 27th July is in the full article.

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A Short Walk along the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal Between Newhall and Livery Street





One of the most interesting stretches of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal can be found in the City Centre between the Newhall Street Bridge and the Livery Street Rail Bridge, unless you are somewhat claustrophobic! Mind your head and enjoy a great urbanscape away from the bustle of the Jewellery Quarter.

A gallery of photos along this route on 27th July is in the full article.


Starting at the Newhall Street Bridge and tunnel and heading east will take you down to where the canal passes under Brindley House. From here you eventually reach the tiny tunnel under the Livery Street Road Bridge and immediately into the cavernous Livery Street Rail Bridge Tunnel. A spiral staircase will take you back up onto Livery Street.

To start the trail, take the steps down from Newhall Street to the canal towpath. Alternatively join the canal from Fleet Street by crossing the bridge opposite the Michell's and Butler building. 

 

Looking down the tunnel under the Newhall Street Bridge.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2193b_CANL.jpg" />

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dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2212b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Looking back the other way (west).

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2223b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Here's the canal as you emerge underneath Brindley House.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2213b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2225b_CANL.jpg" />

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dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2262b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Here we look back at the tunnel under Ludgate Hill.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2269b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2283b_CANL.jpg" />

 

This is the much smaller Livery Street Road tunnel which sits directly alongside the cavernous rail tunnel.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2276b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Here we looki back from the Liver Street road tunnel.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2286b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Now we emerge into the massive rail tunnel.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2292b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2297b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Here there is a spiral staircase up to Livery Street.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2303b_CANL.jpg" />

Photography by Daniel Sturley.

We hope you enjoyed this trail created with the help of our great Birmingham community. 

Go HERE to see other trails and maps you may enjoy. 

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70 passion points
Elliott Brown Green open spaces
07 Jun 2021 - Elliott Brown
Inspiration

Cannon Hill Park - a green space trail

This trail takes you through this wonderful park to some great landmarks and includes the option (which we most certainly recommend) of a visit to the Nature Centre and the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park. 

Explore a few places on the trail over an hour or two or spend a full day at Cannon Hill Park.  

Enjoy!   

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Cannon Hill Park - a green space trail





This trail takes you through this wonderful park to some great landmarks and includes the option (which we most certainly recommend) of a visit to the Nature Centre and the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park. 

Explore a few places on the trail over an hour or two or spend a full day at Cannon Hill Park.  

Enjoy!   


Can we recommend you start the trail at The Midlands Art Centre (The MAC).

 

The Midlands Art Centre (The MAC).

Grab a coffee and a bite to eat at the cafe.  Explore this wonderful arts complex which hosts a mix of theatre, dance, and music, complete with its own cinema and workshops. 

dndimg alt="The MAC Cannon Hill Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/MAC Bham Cannon Hill (Feb 2021) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Explore more about the MAC HERE

From the Mac you pass the Outdoor Arena and The Children's Adventure Playground.

The Outdoor Arena and The Adventure Playground.

450-seater open-air performance space with an exciting series of outdoor events planned. Next to this, there's a great open space for the youngsters to enjoy at the park's Adventure Playground. 

dndimg alt="" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/IMG_4550b_ARCV.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Now walk on past the Fishing Lake on your left.

Fishing Lake.

Go and enjoy a range of recreational activities on the lake including boating and fishing,

Maybe the swans have tempted you.

dndimg alt="Cannon Hill Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Boating Lake Cannon Hill Park (May 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

From here you could take a small detour out of the park to enjoy an hour or two at Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park.

Boy Scouts War Memorial.

On your way to what was formerly called the Nature Centre is the Boy Scouts War Memorial, Grade II listed. Unveiled in July 1924, in the form of an obelisk. In memory of the lives of the Boy Scouts lost during the First World War. Designed by local architect William Hayward.

dndimg alt="Boy Scouts War Memorial" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Boy Scouts War Memorial Cannon Hill Park (July 2018).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Continue along the path towards the Pershore Road.

Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park.

The Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park is home to a unique collection of animals including Red Pandas, Lemurs, Reptiles, Wallabies, Meerkats, Otters, Birds and a large collection of Monkeys. Some of the animals at this park are endangered and the park plays an important role in protecting and preserving many species.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park " dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park (Aug 2014).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Explore more about the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park HERE.

Now on to explore the wonderful woodlands at Cannon Hill Park.

Woodlands at Cannon Hill Park.

Cannon Hill Park is made up of 80 acres of formal parkland and 120 acres of conservation area and woodland plantation. Enjoy a wonderful stroll through the woodland! 

dndimg alt="Centenary Woodland Cannon Hill Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Woodland CHP (Aug 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

From here on to the Sons of Rest.

Sons of Rest.  

Sons of Rest was a movement established by a group of retired working men in 1927. They met to play cards, dominoes and enjoy each others company. The Cannon Hill Sons of Rest was built in 1937.

dndimg alt="Sons of Rest Cannon Hill Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Sons of Rest CHP (Nov 2009) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

From here on to The Golden Lion.

The Golden Lion.

The Golden Lion was originally built in 1520 in Deritend.  The original site is believed to have been a clergy house and a school before becoming an Inn.  It was moved to Cannon Hill Park in 1911.  Sadly over the last couple of decades, the pub has been behind scaffolding, and is in a poor statue of disrepair. Campaigners are hoping to get it restored, or moved back to Digbeth?

dndimg alt="The Golden Lion Cannon Hill Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Golden Lion CHP (Nov 2009) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The Friends of the Golden Lion have a Facebook page HERE.

From here on to The Bandstand.

The Bandstand.

This is a Grade II listed Victorian bandstand built in the 19th century with a blue-brick and stone base, cast iron columns and a curved pavilion roof.  It dates to circa 1880 to 1890.

dndimg alt="Bandstand Cannon Hill Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bandstand CHP (May 2020).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Now go and see a fascinating sculpture and Sousse memorial.

"Infinite Wave".

Prince Harry unveiled this memorial dedicated to those killed and affected by the two terrorist attacks in Tunisia in 2015.  Infinite Wave was designed by George King Architects.

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How about a bit of fun at the Park's International Mini-Golf course.

Mini Golf at Cannon Hill Park.

36 holes of fantastic mini golf fun complete with water hazards.  An 18 hole mini golf course previously opened in 2012. It is now Golden Putter Mini Golf.

dndimg alt="Golden Putter Mini Golf Cannon Hill Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Mini Golf CHP (Apr 2017) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

More information on Golden Putter Mini Golf HERE.

Now for something a little different.

Train Station.

Fancy a ride on the park's train. You can pick it up at the park's train station. 

dndimg alt="Cannon Hill Park Station" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Cannon Hill Park Station (Nov 2009) (4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Now for a detour to the Boer War Memorial.

Boer War Memorial.

This statue is in memory of the British lives lost during the Second Boer War (1899 - 1902) in South Africa. When Joseph Chamberlain was the British Colonial Secretary. The bronze memorial was sculpted by Albert Toft and unveiled in Cannon Hill Park in 1906. It was cleaned and restored in 2012, now Grade II* listed. Surrounded with benches where you can sit down and relax.

dndimg alt="Boer War Memorial" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Boer War Memorial Cannon Hill Park (Nov 2009) (7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Time for a cup of tea or a sandwich?

The Garden Tea Room.

After exploring so much of what's available at this wonderful park, take a break at the tea rooms.

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Now onto remembering a lady who was instrumental to the park's existence as a fantastic open space for us all to enjoy.

Louisa Ryland Monument.

Louisa Ann Ryland (1814 - 1889) gifted the park to the city in 1873.  The blue plaque from the Birmingham Civic Society unveiled at the gatehouse / lodge at 143 Edgbaston Road in 1990. The Rea Valley Cycle Route was officially opened here in 1991.

dndimg alt="Louisa Ryland blue plaque" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gatehouse CHP (Nov 2009) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

On now to a model of the Elan Valley Project in Wales.

Elan Valley Project Model.

Explore the city's connection with Elan Valley in Wales which supplied much of the city's water for more than 100 years.

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Now onto the Canoe Pool.

The Canoe Pool.

More great wildlife to enjoy as we near the end of the trail around the park.

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A short walk back to the Mac.

We hope you have enjoyed our trail. 

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