The Shire Country Park — Attraction in Birmingham

This is a very beautiful place situated right by the River Cole. It runs all the way along the river to Sarehole Mill. It's called the Shire as J R Tolkien spent time living in the nearby area and got inspiration for his Lord Of The Rings books here. Every year they hold a Tolkien Weekend near Sarehole Mill.where there are related activities etc. People dress put twigs and leaves in their hair and dress up. There are lots of birds and butterflies in the right seasons and a Heron. I have seen Kingfishers too. Sometimes I just can't believe just how beautiful the walk from the Shire to the Mill is. The Mill itself is a tourist attraction and has a large and beautiful Mill Pond. I believe the Mill still works you can buy flour made there. As you walk towards the Mill one could still believe you were still in the 1800s and I always liken the vista to the old painting 'February Fill Dyke". The area is served by a Public Space...

A long country path along the side of the River Cole between Small Heath and Yardley Wood. It connects several urban centres but lets you believe you're not in the middle of a built up area. You can see all sorts of wild and bird life. At various times I've seen little deer and kingfishers alongside the more usual denizens. A hugely valuable access to nature for local residents and a triumph for local...

Lovely walk, great for strolls, kids cycling and observing nature. It's very tranquil with the sound of water as you walk along maintained footpaths which flat, and don't get muddy. Paths are ideal for wheelchair users. Although the car park is paved with rough gravel. Will definitely go again, especially when autumn sets in and trees turn to lovely shades of...