Cannon Hill Park
A 250-acre Victorian park in Birmingham, offering boating, mini-golf, arts, and wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Cannon Hill Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 250-acre Victorian park in Birmingham, offering boating, mini-golf, arts, and wildlife.
"A perfect blend of nature, culture, and recreation, highly recommended for locals and visitors."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Holders Lane car park might be free! Check it out before opting for paid spots.
🦢 Swan Boat Rides
A must-do! Enjoy a leisurely paddle on the lake.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swan Boat Lake
Boating Lake
Glide across the water on a charming swan boat, a classic park activity for all ages.
Midlands Arts Centre (MAC)
Within the park
Explore exhibitions, catch a performance, or enjoy a coffee with a view at this cultural hub.
Mini Golf Fun
Mini Golf Course
Challenge friends and family to a round of mini-golf amidst the park's scenic surroundings.
Wildlife Conservation Park
Adjacent to the park
Discover a variety of animals and learn about conservation efforts at this family-friendly attraction.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Holders Lane car park might be free! Check it out before opting for paid spots.
🦢 Swan Boat Rides
A must-do! Enjoy a leisurely paddle on the lake. +2
⛳ Mini Golf Challenge
Fun for all ages, perfect for a friendly competition. 
🎨 MAC Arts Centre
Explore art, performances, and grab a coffee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Holders Lane car park might be free! Check it out before opting for paid spots.
🦢 Swan Boat Rides
A must-do! Enjoy a leisurely paddle on the lake. +2
⛳ Mini Golf Challenge
Fun for all ages, perfect for a friendly competition.
🎨 MAC Arts Centre
Explore art, performances, and grab a coffee.
🚶♀️ Walking Club Meetups
Join local groups for walks and to make friends.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of benches and green space for a relaxing picnic.
📱 Use Public Transport
Buses stop nearby, potentially cheaper than parking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cannon Hill Park for its beautiful, expansive green spaces, perfect for relaxing walks and picnics. The variety of activities, from swan boat rides to the MAC, appeals to all ages. While parking can be an issue and food queues long, the park's natural charm and cultural offerings make it a highly recommended Birmingham gem.
"A Perfect Sunny Day at Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham
My wife and I recently spent a sunny afternoon at Cannon Hill Park in Birmingham, and it was truly a wonderful experience. From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the park's stunning natural beauty – wide open green spaces, beautiful flowerbeds, and the gentle sound of birds singing and water trickling through the stream. It’s the perfect escape from the noise of the city.
We took a long, relaxing walk through the park, and every step was a joy. The fresh air, peaceful atmosphere, and scenic views made it feel like a small piece of countryside right in the heart of Birmingham. Along the way, we passed several charming coffee shops and an ice cream van, which added a lovely touch to our visit – ideal for taking a short break and enjoying a treat.
One of the highlights is the presence of the historic MAC (Midlands Arts Centre), located within the park. It offers exhibitions, performances, and a café with outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a drink while soaking in the view. There are also picturesque bridges, boating lake areas, and even a small funfair for families.
Whether you’re going for a walk, having a picnic, or just sitting on a bench to relax, Cannon Hill Park offers something for everyone. We truly enjoyed every single minute and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Birmingham – it’s a hidden gem that captures both the beauty of nature and the charm of the city's history.
You can see my photos and reviews on my Instagram: @h_albermani"
H H
"A nice balance between a old-fashioned (and very good) parkland, with big old trees, including a Redwood, and totally fun things for all ages. I really enjoyed this park - the rides looked like fun, and "Swan Lake" was spotless. Toilets & cafés were good."
calamitysteph
"Cannon Hill Park is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and recreation. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, exercise, or entertainment, this park delivers on all fronts. Highly recommended for both locals and visitors to Birmingham. The park is beautifully maintained, with expansive lawns, woodlands, and ornamental gardens. The vibrant flower beds and tranquil lakes provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is especially picturesque during spring and summer, offering numerous photo opportunities."
Aakrish Poudel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Several bus routes serve Cannon Hill Park. The 47 and 45 buses stop on Pershore Road, and others on Edgbaston Road, making it accessible via public transport.
There are paid car parks available, but they can get busy. Some visitors suggest Holders Lane car park as a potentially free alternative for walks.
Yes, the park is generally accessible with wide paths suitable for walking and strollers. Paid parking is available, and blue badge holders may have specific parking benefits.
Cycling is a great option, with many visitors enjoying bike rides through the park. There are likely cycle racks available, though specific locations may vary.
The postcode for Cannon Hill Park is B13 8RD.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cannon Hill Park itself is free to enter and explore.
Yes, activities such as swan boat hire and mini-golf typically require separate tickets or fees. +1
The park is generally open from dawn till dusk. Specific attractions within the park, like the MAC or the Wildlife Conservation Park, will have their own operating hours.
Yes, the park frequently hosts events, from community gatherings and walking clubs to outdoor cinemas and markets. It's worth checking local listings for upcoming events.
It's advisable to check the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) website for their specific ticketing and booking procedures for performances and exhibitions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include swan boat rides on the lake, mini-golf, the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC), a large playground, and the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park.
Yes, there is a large playground that is very popular with families.
Absolutely! You can rent swan-shaped pedal boats for a fun experience on the lake. +2
The park offers extensive walking trails and paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll, jogging, or cycling.
Yes, the park is very dog-friendly, but owners are reminded to keep their dogs under control.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes and food carts scattered throughout the park. However, some reviews mention long queues and potentially expensive options.
Definitely! The park has ample green space and benches, making it an ideal spot for picnics.
Besides park cafes, the nearby areas like Moseley offer various dining options. Some local pubs, like The Prince Moseley, are popular after park activities.
While specific menus vary, cafes within the park and the MAC often have a range of options. It's best to check their current offerings.
Yes, you'll find ice cream vans and snack vendors, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The boating lake with swan boats, the flowerbeds, picturesque bridges, and the MAC building offer great photo opportunities.
With its mature trees, diverse plant life, and water features, the park provides excellent opportunities for nature photography.
General photography for personal use is fine, but always be mindful of privacy, especially when photographing individuals or events.
There are no widespread restrictions on photography for personal use. However, commercial photography may require permission.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) offer beautiful lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 Don't miss the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park located nearby for an educational and exciting animal encounter. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the vast green spaces, which is often more budget-friendly and allows for flexibility.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Friends
+1 Joining a walking club or a running group that meets at the park is a great way to connect with locals and make new friends. +2Challenge each other to a round of mini-golf or simply relax by the lake with a book. The park's vibrant atmosphere, especially on sunny days, makes it an enjoyable place to spend time alone or with company.
❤️ Couples
+1Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of the many benches or grassy areas, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Rich History
The park's design reflects a traditional Victorian parkland aesthetic, featuring expansive lawns, mature trees (including a notable Redwood), and ornamental gardens. This blend of natural landscapes and manicured areas creates a visually appealing environment. The presence of the Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) within the park grounds further enhances its cultural significance, offering a space for arts and performance alongside natural beauty.
Over the years, Cannon Hill Park has become a beloved fixture in Birmingham, hosting various events and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. From family fun days and community gatherings to sports clubs and walking groups, the park continues to serve its original purpose as a vital green lung for the city.
+2Activities for Everyone
+1Beyond these classic attractions, the park boasts a large playground that keeps younger visitors entertained for hours.
+1 Additionally, the Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park is adjacent to the park, providing an opportunity to see a variety of animals. For the more active visitor, tennis courts are available, and the park's extensive network of paths is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling.
Community groups also utilize the park for walking clubs and running events, fostering a sense of community and shared activity. +2Navigating Parking and Transport
When it comes to parking, it can be a point of contention, especially during busy periods. While there are paid car parks, some visitors have found success with Holders Lane car park, suggesting it might be free and conveniently located for walks.
The park's expansive nature means that even if one car park is full, there might be other options or the possibility of a short walk from a nearby street. Planning your arrival time, especially avoiding peak weekend hours, can also help mitigate parking challenges.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit