Birmingham, with its massive investment in cycling infrastructure through initiatives like the Birmingham Cycle Revolution, offers a great way for families to explore the city. One of the best ways to explore this bustling city is by bike. Not only does biking promote physical activity, but it also allows children to immerse themselves in Birmingham’s diverse neighborhoods and landscapes and it’s also a pretty cheap day out too. . There are lots of fantastic spots where children can ride their bikes in and around the city, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience for the whole family and I have collated a list of the best cycle routes for children in Birmingham. From parks to scenic trails, explore safe and fun biking adventures for all ages! I also have some ideas for places to enjoy a family bike ride in and around the west midlands if you’re looking for somewhere a little further afield.
From quiet roads to bustling city centers, there are lots of places to explore on wheels, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience for the whole family. We have been putting lots of practice in some parks and flat open spaces ready to attempt some more adventurous challenges in the summer holidays.
Cannon Hill Park
Location: Birmingham, B13 8RD
Cannon Hill Park, located in south Birmingham, offers a diverse range of cycling routes suitable for families. With its flat terrain and well-maintained paths, it’s a great place for children of all ages to ride their bikes. Families can explore the park’s expansive green spaces, picturesque lakes, and scenic gardens while enjoying a leisurely ride. The park also features playgrounds, picnic areas, and cafes, making it an ideal destination for a day out with the family and one of the best cycle routes for children in Birmingham learning to ride a bike or alternative .
Sutton Park
Location: Sutton Coldfield, B74 2YT
Sutton Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, offers miles of scenic cycling trails through its stunning natural landscapes. Families can ride along the park’s designated cycle paths, passing by woodlands, heathlands, and wetlands. With its flat routes and gentle terrain, it’s suitable for riders of all skill levels, including young children. The park also features designated picnic areas and playgrounds, providing ample opportunities for rest and recreation. This is perhaps one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces and a lovely place to explore on a bike.
Birmingham and Fazeley Canal
Location: Birmingham, B1 2JT
The Birmingham and Fazeley Canal provides a scenic cycling route through the heart of Birmingham. Families can pedal along the canal towpaths, passing by historic landmarks and charming neighborhoods. With its traffic-free paths and flat terrain, it’s a great place for children to ride their bikes safely. As long as you’re careful near the water’s edge – so this requires more competent steering ability. The canal also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting and boat watching, adding to the adventure.
Pipe Hayes Park
Location: Pipe Hayes Park, Chester Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 0AA
Pipe Hayes Park, situated in Erdington, Birmingham, is a delightful destination for family bike rides. With its well-maintained paths and flat terrain, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal through the park’s open green spaces, enjoying views of the surrounding woodlands and playing fields. Pipe Hayes Park also features playgrounds, sports facilities, and ample parking, making it an ideal spot for a day out with the family.
New Hall Valley Country Park
Location: New Hall Valley Country Park, Wylde Green Road, Sutton Coldfield, B76 1QU
New Hall Valley Country Park, located in Sutton Coldfield, offers a peaceful escape for family bike rides. With its network of traffic-free trails and diverse landscapes, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal through woodlands, meadows, and along the banks of the River Tame, enjoying views of wildlife and natural habitats. New Hall Valley Country Park also features picnic areas, play areas, and historical landmarks, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Malvern Park
Location: Malvern Park, New Road, Solihull, B91 3EA
Malvern Park, situated in Solihull, is a charming spot for family bike rides. With its scenic pathways and gentle gradients, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal through the park’s manicured gardens, enjoying views of the ornamental lake and floral displays. Malvern Park also features playgrounds, tennis courts, and a cafe, making it an ideal destination for a day out with the family.
Kings Heath Park
Location: Kings Heath Park, Vicarage Road, Birmingham, B14 7TQ
Kings Heath Park, located in the heart of Birmingham, offers a green oasis for family bike rides. With its flat paths and tranquil surroundings, it’s perfect for a family ride, especially children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal through the park’s mature woodlands, enjoying views of the ornamental ponds and flower beds. Kings Heath Park also features playgrounds, sports facilities, and a tea room, providing plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
Grand Union Canal
Location: Grand Union Canal, Birmingham, B1 1LX
The Grand Union Canal offers a leisurely ride through Birmingham’s picturesque countryside. Families can pedal along the canal paths, passing by quaint villages and historic landmarks. With its flat routes and scenic views, it’s a great place for people of all ages to explore. The canal also features designated picnic spots and cafes, perfect for a relaxing break along the way.
Kingsbury Water Park
Location: Kingsbury Water Park, Sutton Coldfield, B76 0DY
Kingsbury Water Park is a popular destination for family-friendly cycling adventures. With its miles of multi-use trails and flat routes, it’s perfect for young children and beginners. Families can ride around the park’s scenic lakes, spotting wildlife and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The park also features picnic areas, adventure playgrounds, and cafes, making it an ideal spot for a day trip out with the family. There are bicycle hire opportunities here toomaking this the best cycle routes for children in Birmingham when you’re looking to inlcude the whole family.
Lickey Hills Country Park
Location: Lickey Hills Country Park, Warren Lane, Rednal, Birmingham, B45 8ER
Just a short drive from the city center lies Lickey Hills Country Park, a natural oasis nestled amidst rolling hills and ancient woodlands. This picturesque park boasts a variety of cycling trails, with great scenery ranging from gentle paths to more challenging routes for older children. This is one of the highest points and boasts a great view of the city. As they explore the park’s diverse landscapes, young riders can discover hidden ponds, meandering streams, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the city below.
Cannock Chase
Location: Cannock Chase, Staffordshire, WS12 4PW
Cannock Chase is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a range of cycling trails for families to explore. From gentle woodland paths to more challenging mountain bike trails, there’s something for riders of all abilities with new pedal and play zones along the Gruffalo trail. Families can pedal through diverse terrain along miles of trails including ancient forests, heathlands, and valleys, as well as purpose-built trails ideal for mountain bikes, and you can also enjoy breathtaking views along the way. The Chase has a great cycling community with the Birches Valley also featuring visitor centers, cafes, and bike shops, providing everything families need for a memorable cycling adventure. The sheer number of trails here makes this one of the best cycle routes for children in Birmingham if you have a family of different ages and abilities to inlcude.
Edgbaston Reservoir
Location: Edgbaston Reservoir, Icknield Port Road, Birmingham, B16 0AA
Edgbaston Reservoir offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Situated just west of the city center, this scenic reservoir is encircled by a flat, paved path, making it perfect for family bike rides. Children can pedal along the water’s edge, taking in views of sailboats gliding across the reservoir and lush greenery lining the shores. With plenty of benches and grassy areas for picnics, it’s an ideal spot for a day of outdoor adventure and suitable for kids of all fitness levels.
Woodgate Valley Country Park
Location: Woodgate Valley Country Park, Clapgate Lane, Bartley Green, Birmingham, B32 3DS
Located on the western outskirts of Birmingham, Woodgate Valley Country Park is a hidden gem, a lovely part of Birmingham waiting to be explored. The park features a network of cycling trails meandering through meadows, woodlands, and wetlands, providing endless opportunities for discovery. On site, there is also the riding school and urban farm which is worth paying a visit. Children can ride alongside babbling brooks, through shady forests, and past wildflower meadows, immersing themselves in the beauty of the natural world.
Rea Valley Route
Location: Rea Valley Route, Birmingham
For families seeking a longer biking excursion, the Rea Valley Route offers an exciting adventure through Birmingham’s urban landscape. This 12-mile cycling route follows the course of the River Rea, connecting the city center with suburban neighborhoods and green spaces along the way. Children can pedal through leafy parks, historic districts, and vibrant communities, experiencing the city from a unique perspective.
Ackers Adventure
Location: Ackers Adventure, Golden Hillock Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B11 2PY
Ackers Adventure offers a thrilling biking experience for children looking to test their skills on two wheels. This outdoor activity center features a purpose-built mountain bike trail suitable for riders of all levels, from beginners to experienced cyclists. With a series of twists, turns, and obstacles, the trail provides an exciting challenge for adventurous kids seeking an adrenaline-fueled biking adventure.
Sheldon Country Park
Location: Sheldon Country Park, Ragley Drive, Birmingham, B26 3TU
Sheldon Country Park is a tranquil retreat located on the eastern outskirts of Birmingham. This sprawling parkland boasts a network of scenic cycling trails, offering children the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes including meadows, woodlands, and wetlands. As they pedal through the park, young riders can encounter grazing sheep, historic farm buildings, and even remnants of medieval fishponds, providing a glimpse into Birmingham’s rural past.
Handsworth Park
Location: Handsworth Park, Holly Road, Handsworth, Birmingham, B20 2BY
Handsworth Park is a vibrant green space nestled within the heart of Birmingham’s diverse Handsworth neighborhood. The park features a picturesque lake, landscaped gardens, and a variety of recreational facilities, making it an ideal destination for a family bike ride. Children can cycle along paved pathways, passing by colorful flower beds, playgrounds, and sports fields, while soaking in the lively atmosphere of this community hub.
Harborne Walkway
Location: Harborne Walkway, Harborne, Birmingham
The Harborne Walkway is a scenic green corridor stretching along the route of a former railway line, providing a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle. This linear park offers a flat and traffic-free cycling route, perfect for young riders looking to explore Birmingham’s industrial heritage. As they pedal through tunnels and over bridges, children can enjoy views of lush greenery and urban landmarks, making for a memorable biking adventure.
Brueton Park
Location: Brueton Park, Warwick Road, Solihull, B91 3HW
Brueton Park, situated in Solihull just a short distance from Birmingham, offers a tranquil setting for family bike rides. The park features flat routes and leisurely paths, making it ideal for children of all ages and fitness levels. Families can pedal around the park’s scenic lake, enjoying views of wildlife and lush greenery. Brueton Park also boasts picnic areas, playgrounds, and an adventure playground, providing ample opportunities for rest and recreation. With its convenient location near Solihull town center and accessible parking, it’s the perfect spot for a family day out on bikes
Chase Water
Location: Brownhills, Walsall, WS8 7NL
Chase Water offers a scenic destination for family bike rides. With its flat free route and traffic-free paths, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal along the shores of the reservoir, taking in views of the water and surrounding woodlands. Chase Water also features picnic areas, play areas, and cafes, making it an ideal spot for a day out with the family.
Monsal Trail
Location: Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1NW
The Monsal Trail, located in the Peak District near Bakewell, offers a spectacular route for family bike rides. Following the path of a former railway line, the trail provides gentle gradients and stunning views of the Derbyshire countryside. Families can pedal along the trail ride, through picturesque valleys, passing by old railway tunnels and viaducts. With its flat terrain and well-maintained surface, it’s suitable for riders of all ages and abilities.
Rutland Water
Location: Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8BT
Rutland Water, situated near Oakham in the East Midlands, offers a beautiful setting for family bike rides. With its miles of traffic-free paths and gentle gradients, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal along the reservoir’s shoreline, enjoying views of the water and surrounding countryside. Rutland Water also features picnic areas, birdwatching hides, and a visitor center, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Draycote Water
Location: Kites Hardwick, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV23 8AB
Draycote Water, located near Rugby in Warwickshire, is a popular destination for family-friendly bike rides. With its flat routes and scenic views, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal along the reservoir’s perimeter, taking in views of the water and surrounding countryside. Draycote Water also features picnic areas, play areas, and a visitor center, making it an ideal spot for a day out with the family.
Ryton Pools
Location: Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV8 3BH
Ryton Pools Country Park, situated near Coventry in Warwickshire, offers a peaceful setting for family bike rides. With its miles of traffic-free trails and diverse landscapes, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, enjoying views of wildlife and natural habitats. Ryton Pools also features picnic areas, play areas, and a visitor center, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Sandwell Valley Nature Reserve
Location: West Bromwich, Sandwell, B71 4BG
Sandwell Valley Nature Reserve, located in West Bromwich, offers a natural oasis for family bike rides. With its flat routes and scenic views, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, enjoying views of wildlife and natural habitats. Sandwell Valley also features picnic areas, play areas, and a visitor center as well as an urban farm, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation making this one of the best cycle routes for children in Birmingham on a summers day.
Hicks Lodge
Location: Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, LE65 2UP
Hicks Lodge, situated near Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire, offers a family-friendly destination for bike rides. With its miles of traffic-free trails and diverse landscapes, it’s perfect for children and beginner cyclists. Families can pedal through woodlands, meadows, and former mining areas, enjoying views of wildlife and natural habitats. Hicks Lodge also features picnic areas, play areas, and a visitor center, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Last Updated on 4 months by Lavania Oluban