Top 7 Lakes around Catshill and North Marlbrook CP

The area primarily features significant reservoirs and smaller ponds, many of which were originally constructed to supply drinking water to Birmingham. These water bodies, such as Upper Bittell Reservoir and Bartley Green Reservoir, now offer valuable recreational and ecological features.

Yes, several spots are great for families. Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort is within a large country park offering woodlands, a children's adventure playground, and easy walking trails. Upper Bittell Reservoir also has designated picnic areas perfect for a family outing.

Upper Bittell Reservoir is excellent for hiking and picnicking, with designated areas to enjoy the waterside. It's also a hub for water-based activities through the Barnt Green Sailing Club, offering dinghy cruising, racing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Fishing is popular, and birdwatchers can observe various wildfowl and waders.

Bartley Green Reservoir is renowned as a birdwatcher's delight, attracting many species. The Bittell Reservoirs (including Upper Bittell Reservoir) are also particularly attractive to wildfowl and gulls, especially during winter, and are good for observing terns and waders during migration.

Yes, there are numerous walking opportunities. Lickey Hills Country Park offers marked trails of varying difficulty. Around Bartley Green Reservoir, green spaces like Bartley Meadows and Bromwich Wood Local Nature Reserve provide trails for nature walks. Upper Bittell Reservoir is also a great spot for hiking.

You can find various cycling routes in the vicinity. For gravel biking, explore routes like the 'Alvechurch Marina – Tardebigge Reservoir loop' or the 'Kings Norton Junction – Dickens Heath Canal Waterfront loop'. Mountain biking options include the 'Lickey Hills loop' or routes around Tardebigge Reservoir. For more details, check out the Gravel biking, MTB Trails, and Cycling guides for the area.

Many of the trails and green spaces around the lakes are dog-friendly. For instance, Lickey Hills Country Park is a popular spot for dog walkers, offering varied terrain and woodlands. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow local signage regarding leash requirements.

Yes, Lickey Hills Country Park Pond and Stone Fort is located within Lickey Hills Country Park, which has a rich history, including being a former Royal hunting ground. The park also features the Beacon Hill Toposcope, offering historical context and panoramic views.

Lickey Hills Country Park is well-equipped with a visitor center, a children's adventure playground, a golf course, and two cafes. It also has helpful rangers who can advise on the best walks and provide maps.

Open water swimming is available at Upper Bittell Reservoir, but it is generally restricted to members of the Birmingham Running, Athletic and Triathlon Club (BRAT club) during the summer season.

The lakes offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying water activities, picnicking, and vibrant wildflowers. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to areas like Lickey Hills Country Park, while winter is excellent for birdwatching at reservoirs like Upper Bittell Reservoir and Bartley Green Reservoir, though trails can be muddy after rain.

Parking is available at key locations. Lickey Hills Country Park has dedicated parking areas. For the reservoirs, public access points often have nearby parking, though it's advisable to check specific locations beforehand, especially for Upper Bittell Reservoir where immediate access is restricted but public footpaths are accessible.