Sandwell Valley dog walk, West Midlands

B71 3SZ

Sandwell Valley dog walk, West Midlands - Dog walks in the West Midlands
Sandwell Valley dog walk, West Midlands - Dog walks in the West Midlands
Sandwell Valley dog walk, West Midlands - Dog walks in the West Midlands
Sandwell Valley dog walk, West Midlands - Dog walks in the West Midlands

Description

Short, and pleasant walk through a bird sanctuary. The visitor centre has lots of interesting info, and there's plenty for kids to do (apart from walking the dog).

Disabled Access Not Available
Refreshments Available
WC Available
Free Parking Available
Children's Activities Available
Height Restriction
Sleep Not Available

Details

GPS coords for car park: 52.5316, -1.9593  Free car park but take care with the innovative speed/size limiting pyramids.  WCs, childrens' play area, snacks, visitor centre, farm demonstrations.  To reach the visitor centre, go to the back left corner of the car park, through a metal gate, and follow the path to the visitor centre and farm shop.

Full Walk Details

Go through the gate at the end of the car park on the right hand side, and you will see a walkers' sign marking the River Tame Way. Walk forward along the concrete road towards the lake, past the welcome sign, cross over the bridge and turn right to walk around part of the lake. The lake is on the left and the River Tame to the right as the path winds around the lake.

There is a steep drop from the river bank to the water here, which is really difficult for dogs to get out from. Water-loving Jem had a massive struggle to get out – and it was hard to grab his collar to haul him up. Suggestion is that you don't let your dog go swimming in the first place!

After 10 minutes or so, the path continues through land given over to the RSPB so dogs need to be on leads here. The RSPB are evidently doing a great job – the flashing of bright plumage and shrilling bird song in early Spring was sensational.  When you reach the head of the lake, turn around to retrace your steps.