Runners, joggers, and walkers across the West Midlands looking for a fresh start in 2026 are in luck. A new list highlights nine breathtakingly beautiful locations across the region, ideal for a revitalising morning run to begin the new year.
Escape the Urban Buzz on Picturesque Trails
The West Midlands is rich with local and national nature reserves, offering the perfect escape from city life. Birmingham alone boasts more than 3,500 hectares of parks and open spaces, ranging from peaceful urban parks to scenic riverside paths. These havens provide stunning views and invigorating routes for every type of runner seeking a New Year fitness challenge.
Top Picks for Your New Running Routine
The curated selection includes diverse landscapes to suit all preferences. Here are some of the standout locations ideal for lacing up your trainers.
1. Cannon Hill Park
This park offers expansive green spaces perfect for a run in any weather. A beloved spot for Birmingham residents, Cannon Hill Park first opened to the public in September 1873 and has been entertaining Brummies ever since.
2. Handsworth Park
An expansive spot near the heart of the city, this is a 63-acre Victorian park. It features a boating lake, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a well-stocked leisure centre, providing a varied and interesting route.
3. Malvern Hills
For a more challenging run, the Malvern Hills offer a remarkable location on the border of Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Runners can enjoy open hilltops, wooded slopes, and picturesque scenery, including a small stream flowing into a lake.
4. Kingfisher Country Park, East Birmingham
This park features a wide variety of habitats, including ancient woodland, grassland, and wetlands. Its key attraction for runners is an 11 km stretch through the River Cole valley, offering consistently perfect scenery along the route.
Kickstart Your Fitness Journey in Nature
These locations demonstrate that starting a new running habit doesn't mean being confined to city pavements. With such a wealth of accessible natural beauty and historic parkland on the doorstep, West Midlands residents have every incentive to embrace outdoor exercise in 2026. Whether seeking the gentle trails of a Victorian park or the invigorating climbs of the Malvern Hills, there is a perfect scenic run waiting to be discovered.
