Barrow Hill Local Nature Reserve — Attraction in Dudley

There are a few on-road parking spaces in Vicarage Lane on the approach to St Mark’s Church, but the Reserve also has a small free off-road car park in Merryfield Road near the Himley Road. I frequently bring relatives for appointments at Russells Hall Hospital, which is only a short distance away, and instead of parking at the hospital or driving home for the 1 to 2 hours wait, I often come here and spend the time walking in the countryside. There are many good walks possible though varying terrain. If you like a challenge you can climb the hill to the Cross above the St Mark’s which can be seen from the hospital car park. Longer walks are also possible from here linking onto the path along the disused railway line. Going south, this path takes you to Fens Pools Local Nature Reserve. If you follow the old railway line to the North West you should be able to make your way to the Crooked House, but I haven’t had the time to try that route out yet! On the whole it is a lovely site with a good variety of flora and fauna, which many people drive past without even realising it is there. The only downside is that the paths close to the car park are popular with dog walkers, the type who don't clean up after their dog. So even if you think you have been treading carefully it is prudent to check/change your shoes before getting back...

Barrow Hill Nature Reserve in Dudley seems to offer a rather pleasant escape into nature. Tucked away in Pensnett, it perhaps doesn't draw the large crowds you might find at some other spots, which can make for a more tranquil experience. It's the kind of place where you can often enjoy the sounds of singing birds, adding a lovely soundtrack to your stroll. For those with canine companions, it appears to be a good choice for a walk, offering space to explore. As with any nature reserve, it's generally wise to keep dogs under control to protect the wildlife and show consideration for other visitors. One of the particularly fascinating aspects of Barrow Hill is its geological history. The hill itself is actually the eroded remnant of an ancient igneous intrusion, effectively the roots of what was once a volcano around 315 million years ago. It's quite remarkable to think you're walking on ground shaped by volcanic activity from such a distant past. The hard rock, known as dolerite, which forms the hill, was even quarried for road building many years ago. Overall, Barrow Hill Nature Reserve offers a blend of natural beauty, a sense of peacefulness, and some truly intriguing geological facts, making it a worthwhile destination for...

Great local wildlife spot, over the years i have seen roe deer, munjac deer, grass snakes, woodcock, newts and many other amazing species over there. Lots of pools and ponds. Quiet other than local neh do wells on motor bikes and quad bikes. The large and ornate st marks church is situated amoungst the woodland, which still has some very old trees. You can walk from pensnett on the fens pools nature reserve into barrow hill nature reserse, down the old railway line straight to the location of the now missing iconic crooked house, then on to himley and baggeridge country parks. Wish barrow hill would get some funding and security to maintain, develop and...