What do I love about autumn? The changing of the seasons brings beautiful burnt colours, from the skies to the trees, as well as an excuse to warm up by an open fire with a pint. And a relaxing stroll beside Earlswood Lakes offers both in spades—where you can also go fishing, try sailing and spot plenty of wildlife.
What is Earlswood Lakes?
A stone’s throw from Birmingham, in Warwickshire, Earlswood Lakes consists of three 22-acre reservoirs together—Terry’s Pool, Windmill Pool and Engine Pool—built in the 1820s to supply water to the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal. Nowadays, it’s home to everything from woodpeckers and muntjack deer to owls and otters, as well as sailors, fishermen and birdwatchers.
What is the walk like?
There’s an easy and accessible 2.6-mile walking trail around the lakes—with a litany of cafés, pubs, picnic spots, and play areas around it for use. Take in the turning of the trees and the crisp autumn air hovering above the water, with one eye on the breathtaking surroundings and another on the path ahead. And, don’t miss out on the historic engine house on your way around!
There are a few places you could start your stroll, but heading out from a pub car park is never a bad idea. Set off from either The Bulls Head or The Red Lion, to loop back around and enjoy a well-earned pint by a roaring fire at a cosy, country pub—both offer traditional British food, too, for those after a pub lunch.
To make your walk a little longer and a little more adventurous, delve into Clowes Wood (which is renowned for its bluebells in spring). Thought to be wooded since the last ice age, this ancient woodland is home to fifty-something bird breeds—like chiffchaff, nuthatch and treecreeper—as well as badgers, foxes, muntjacs and hares.
How do I get there?
You can drive to Earlswood Lakes in 30 to 45 minutes via the A38 using the postcode B94 5JH. Alternatively, hop on a 30-minute train from Birmingham Moor Street to The Lakes station, where it’s then a 15-minute walk to Earlswood Lakes.