If you’ve made a pledge to yourself to get active in 2025 then hold your horses before you throw your credit card number at a gym membership. We’ve got a ‘truly amazing’ destination right here in Birmingham, with loads and loads of space where you can keep fit, explore new hobbies and get your heart racing, all for free.
For years, Brummies have been heading to Sutton Park for wellness. Not only is it a popular Parkrun destination, a dog-walkers dream, filled with cycle paths and adventure routes, but we even took a hike to bathe in the mystical spring that once ‘healed’ eye hospital patients.
Whether you’ve never been there before, or you’ve visited a hundred times, the 2,400 acre National Nature Reserve just six miles north of the city centre is a gift that keeps on giving. With open heathland, lakes, woodlands, wetlands, marshes and more, you will always find something new to experience while staying fit and well.
Read more: I bathed in the mystical ancient spring that ‘healed’ countless Brummies and felt the magic
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Local Joseph Lewis told potential visitors on Google: “I’ve lived in Sutton all my life and there are endless things to do. I go here with friends, family and school, never gets boring.
“I’ve been going to the park often for 13 years, still finding new places to explore after all that time. Truly amazing place, strongly recommend.”
Rahim Abdul explored it on two wheels. He wrote: “We went to do a bike ride and it was our first time visiting. Very easy to find parking but directions for the trail were quite hard to find. The park itself is great for a ride around, although quite steep.
“Plenty of ice creams van dotted around the park so great to stop and treat yourself.”
Parkrunner Paul wrote: “Visited here for the Saturday morning Parkrun. Loads of free parking and short walk from the car park to the start.
“Course is largely gravel paths, under trees, with a few hills thrown in. Very well organised event, friendly volunteers, and good attendance.”
David S added: “Great place for hiking and running! Close to Birmingham but feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere. Lots of routes and places to explore just remember to take waterproof boots if going of the main paths.”
Given the park is so large, work has been done to make it as accessible as possible for all Brummies, regardless of ability. AccessAble has a great guide to exploring the nature reserve for those with access needs.
Reviewing the space, Stephen Harvey wrote: “A brisk stroll on a winters afternoon in these very beautiful surroundings. Good pathways for those who need them.”
Brogan Nolan added: “.Lots of parking and at least eight disabled bays at the end of the road next to the accessibility centre. You can rent a mobility scooter and there is water for dogs and a little café.
“Bins for dog waste and trails/paths to use. Benches dotted around and toilets near the main entrance, along with a fenced in kids play park.”
As well as the play space, finding fun in Sutton Park is easy. Reviewer Steve Jeffcoat wrote: “We visited for a stroll around the park with a silent electric powered radio controlled model car. We had several excellent interactions with interested members of the public.
“All in all it was a great experience in lovely weather looking at the beautiful autumn colours. Sutton Park is a priceless gem.”
Google Reviewer Carpe Diem wrote: “Sutton Park is a great place if you just fancy time out of the busy world. Places you can walk long paths. Or walk among the huge trees. A happy place with plenty of wildlife to watch.”