If you're looking to escape the urban buzz and reconnect with nature, the West Midlands boasts an incredible array of scenic walking trails right on your doorstep. From historic parklands to rugged hills with breathtaking views, there's a perfect path for every pace and preference, all waiting to be explored in 2025.
Top Rated Trails for Hiking Enthusiasts
For those seeking a rewarding challenge, the region offers several highly-rated circular routes that promise a fantastic day out. Lace up your boots and discover some of the most popular paths, each with its own unique character and stunning landscapes.
Kinver Edge Circular is a standout choice, earning an impressive 4.7-star rating on All Trails. This 6.4-kilometre loop near Stourbridge is generally considered a moderate challenge, taking walkers an average of one hour and fifty minutes to complete. As a very popular area for hiking, you're likely to meet fellow explorers along the way. The trail is beautiful year-round, and your canine companions are welcome, though they must be kept on a lead.
Another fantastic option is the Walton Hill, Clent Hill and Four Stones Circular. Located approximately 10 miles from Birmingham, this 5.6-kilometre trail offers expansive views and minimal light pollution, making it ideal for those seeking wide-open spaces. With a 4.5-star rating on All Trails, this moderately challenging route takes about one hour and forty-three minutes to complete. Dogs are also welcome here but must be kept on a lead.
Perfect Parks and Hills for a Day Out
For a slightly shorter adventure or a brisk walk, the West Midlands is home to iconic hills and one of the largest urban parks in Europe, providing easily accessible natural retreats.
The Clent Hills Circular is a beloved 3.9-kilometre trail near Halesowen. This moderately challenging route typically takes one hour and eleven minutes to finish and is a hub for birding, hiking, and running. It also holds a 4.5-star rating on All Trails. A great feature for dog owners is that your four-legged friends are welcome and may be off-lead in certain designated areas.
For a more substantial exploration, Sutton Park Circular is a must-try. This 10.9-kilometre trail near Sutton Coldfield is a moderately challenging route that takes an average of two hours and forty-three minutes to complete. As a popular spot for birding, hiking, and running, it's a vibrant place to visit. Dogs are welcome and may be off-lead in some areas, and it too boasts a 4.5-star rating on All Trails.
Lace Up and Get Exploring
All the highlighted trails are open throughout the year and are beautiful to visit in any season, whether you're after a quick lunchtime wander or a full-day outdoor escape. The consistent high ratings on platforms like All Trails are a testament to their quality and the enjoyment they bring to thousands of visitors.
So, why wait? With options ranging from the heathland of Kinver Edge to the ancient woodlands of Sutton Park, there has never been a better time to pull on your walking shoes, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the stunning natural beauty that Birmingham and the West Midlands has to offer.
