Birmingham Family Days Out | Moseley and Edgbaston, south Birmingham
Just outside the city centre, between Moseley and Edgbaston, Cannon Hill Park is one of Birmingham’s best-loved green spaces. First opened in 1873, after heiress Louisa Ryland gave the land to the city, it now covers around 250 acres of formal parkland, woodland and lakes. Here are five reasons to visit.
1. Swan pedalos on the boating lake
The ornamental boating lake is the heart of the park, and you can hire swan-shaped pedalos for a gentle trip across the water. It’s a classic Birmingham family photo, and a relaxing way to spend half an hour.
2. A fun park, crazy golf and a land train
The Fun Park is packed with games, rides and activities for toddlers to ten-year-olds, and there’s crazy golf too. Hop aboard the land train, named after Louisa Ryland, for a lap of the lake and the main attractions. A Fun Pass gives discounted access to several of these.
3. Red pandas and monkeys
Just across the River Rea is the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park, a small zoo home to red pandas, monkeys and more. It’s compact, so it’s ideal for younger children who might find a big zoo tiring.
4. The MAC arts centre
MAC Birmingham sits within the park, with a theatre, cinema, galleries, family workshops and a café and bar. It’s a handy spot for toilets, lunch or a family show if the weather turns.
5. Free to explore, with nature all around
The park itself is free, with woodland walks along the River Rea, swans and ducks on the lakes, playgrounds and picnic spots. It’s a lovely contrast to the busy city centre, and pairs well with a morning at Cadbury World nearby.
Plan your visit
Cannon Hill Park
Russell Road, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8RD
Free entry | Pay-and-play attractions extra
Car parks off Edgbaston Road (by the MAC) and Russell Road
About 2 miles from Birmingham New Street, with buses from the city centre