Families visiting the bustling Merry Hill shopping centre have a surprising natural oasis waiting right on their doorstep. Directly opposite the retail park lies Saltwells National Nature Reserve, a vast woodland haven that Dudley Council describes as home to ‘probably the largest sculpture park in the West Midlands’.
A Sculpture-Filled Escape from the Shops
This expansive reserve offers a world away from the busy shopping experience. Winding paths through ancient woodland lead visitors on a discovery trail of intriguing sculptures, including a train, dog, frog, dragon, and bat. The site is a haven for wildlife and geology, forming part of the Global Black Country GeoPark and featuring two Sites of Special Scientific Interest for Carboniferous and Silurian geology.
Once a landscape scarred by old clay and coal mining, the area has been transformed into a sanctuary for orchids and butterflies. Its historical significance is further marked by its status as a nationally protected Scheduled Ancient Monument of Medieval coal workings. The reserve's excellence was recognised nationally when it won the first UNESCO UK Man and the Biosphere’s Urban Wildlife Award for Excellence in 1992, an accolade only a handful of places have achieved.
Practical Information for Visitors
Accessing this green lung is straightforward. From Merry Hill, visitors turn left at the traffic lights and continue for half a mile along Coppice Lane before turning left at the sign for the Saltwells Inn. The postcode for satnavs is DY5 1AX. A small, free car park is available, though it closes soon after sunset.
After exploring the nearly 100-hectare, two-and-a-half-mile-long reserve, the perfect pitstop awaits. The Saltwells Inn pub boasts two large family rooms and a big garden with woodland views, two children's adventure play areas, and alfresco dining. Meals are reasonably priced, generally between £6 to £8, with daily specials including kids' deals on Mondays and curry nights on Fridays.
What Visitors Are Saying
The reserve enjoys a stellar 4.4-star rating on Tripadvisor from over 180 reviews. Visitors consistently praise its surprising tranquillity and family-friendly appeal. One reviewer called it "an oasis in a busy area", noting the well-maintained paths make it hard to believe Merry Hill is so close. Another highlighted it as a "varied site with an established forest, clay pits and reservoir", teeming with wildlife. Families particularly recommend it, with one parent stating: "Lots of fun for kids. Beautiful scenery. Lots of statues for kids to find."
Trail guides and an informative leaflet explaining the site's significant geology can be downloaded from the Dudley Council website, making for an educational as well as recreational visit. This unique blend of art, history, and nature makes Saltwells National Nature Reserve a must-visit destination for anyone in the West Midlands.
