Stirchley Squiggle Walk
Bourne Brook Inn, 1273 Pershore Road, Stirchley, Birmingham, West Midlands, B30 2YT
From the Bournbrook Inn the walk will visit Hazelwell Park which was originally part of the Hazelwell Estate. After checking the view from the top, the walk descends to follow the River Rea path south passing a community orchard and vegetable gardens. After crossing the outer circle, the route leaves the River Rea to join the Worcester canal briefly to The Breedon Cross before making its way to Cotteridge Park. Cotteridge Park is community run and volunteers host a small cafe and many events and manage a community orchard. After Cotteridge park we’ll visit the Ladies’ Garden before returning to Stirchley. Due to several mills along the Rea, its proximity to the Canal from 1815 and suburban railway from 1876, Stirchley developed an industrial base around metal rolling and engineering later to become GKN. Being close to the new transport systems Cadbury’s arrived 1897 and had very close links with the workers and industries on the “other side of the track”.
There are toilet facilities at the start and finish. We can stop for a short rest in Cotteridge Park. Bring your own snack or drink or purchase at the cafe, (there may be a long queue). The walk is 3 ½ miles. Please wear sturdy footwear. The route is mostly footpaths but there is some meadow walking in parks and orchards. Since the walk is organised under the auspices of the Ramblers, we are unable to accommodate dogs other than assistance dogs on the walk.
Bourne Brook Inn, 1273 Pershore Road, Stirchley, Birmingham, West Midlands, B30 2YT