Spring is upon us! And that only means one thing: The pastel pink flowers of cherry blossom trees are returning. Japanese cherry blossom, also known as sakura, is well suited to the British climate and adds a much-needed pop of colour and beauty. You’ll have to act quickly, however, as it only hands around from the end of March to the start of May. So if you’re heading out for a walk or day trip soon, keep an eye out for the cherry blossom in Birmingham this spring.
1. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
From as early as late February sometimes, the treetops of Birmingham Botanical Gardens are dotted with pink blossoms – but by April and May they’re utterly laden with flowers. Sweet-scented cherry blossom trees can found around the main lawn, which is a beautiful spot for picnics, as well as near the rock pool. You’ll find them integrated as part of the gardens’ seasonal walking trail which highlights the best of the blooms, including magnolias, azaleas and rhododendrons too.
2. Oozells Square
Head for sort art and culture at the Ikon Gallery and you’ll be welcomed by these beautiful cherry blossom trees in Oozells Square. This spot is where nature meets the urban jungle of Birmingham as it’s possibly the most central area in the city to find these gorgeous, springtime trees.
3. Worcester Cathedral
For a lovely day trip out, head south of Birmingham to Worcester, by the cathedral, you’ll discover the spire poking through the abundant pink leaves. You can also visit the Vale of Evesham in Worcestershire where you can discover a whole trail of cherry blossom trees. The area looks like a picture-perfect postcard with cute chocolate box cottages and rolling hills as well as cherry blossom to make it extra special.
4. Ironbridge
OK, so it’s not in Birmingham but Ironbridge in Shropshire is less than an hour’s drive, or a two-hour train journey if you’re looking to make a day of it. The pop of pink against this industrial and iconic bridge is a sight to behold, especially on a warm, sunny day. But be quick as this beauty won’t be around for long.
5. Clun
A slightly longer trip from Birmingham but it seems Shropshire is the county for cherry blossom. In the cute village of Clun, close to the Welsh border, you’ll find an adorable pack horse bridge surrounded by the flower also known as sakura.
6. Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens
Located in Solihull, Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens is another green space to find cherry blossom blooming. Plus, not only will you find the pink variety of cherry blossom in these Birmingham gardens but also the white variety too. In normal times, visitors can enjoy a picnic under the blossom trees, which is a great day out and an escape from the city for all.
7. Tattu
Ok, so it’s technically not a natural tree in some lovely country park, but it’s still pretty – and this one, you can see all year round. Sitting front and centre in Birmingham’s Tattu restaurant is a gorgeous, looming cherry blossom tree. Bringing a slice of the Far East to Brum, the tree is amplified by gorgeous pink mood lighting and is the subject of many an Instagram post. The best part about this cherry blossom tree? You can enjoy it alongside delicious Chinese food. You’ll also find indoor cherry blossom at the halal restaurant Alam.