Edgbaston Reservoir: I visited Birmingham's hidden gem and found a serene oasis in the heart of our city

Edgbaston Reservoir is a hidden gem in the heart of Birmingham, offering a serene oasis for nature lovers, joggers, and picnickers.

I visited this beautiful spot on a crisp March morning and had a wonderful time exploring its charms. The reservoir has a long and rich history, dating back to the 19th century when it was built as a canal feeder reservoir.

It was originally called Rotton Park Reservoir and is sometimes known as Ladywood Reservoir. It is now managed by the Canal & River Trust and provides a peaceful retreat from the busy city life. 

The reservoir is located at Reservoir Road, Birmingham B16 9EE and is easy to reach and popular among locals and tourists.

My time at Edgbaston Reservoir

I enjoyed walking along the reservoir’s edge, admiring the scenic views. 

The water shimmered in the early spring sunlight, and the trees around it stood proudly, waving their branches in the breeze. The path around the reservoir was well-kept and allowed me to appreciate the reservoir’s beauty at my own speed. 

It is a haven for birdwatchers, as it hosts a variety of bird species. I stood quietly and watched the elegant swans glide on the water, creating stunning reflections and the ducks quacked cheerfully.

The reservoir’s appeal has been increased by the recent improvements to the path and the establishment of a community orchard. The orchard features fruit trees that add colour and invite visitors to enjoy the seasonal changes.

I chatted with a mother of two, Sarah who enjoys the reservoir’s tranquillity with her loved ones. “I come here very often with my family and even for a run, by myself, to take in the scenery, watch the birds by the lake, or simply get away for a bit” 

The reservoir is not only a beautiful spot for nature lovers, but also a centre for leisure activities and sports. The reservoir offers a range of water-based activities, such as angling, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking and rowing.  

What are the future plans for Edgbaston Reservoir?

One of the exciting developments that will happen at the reservoir is the launch of the new Midlands Boat Station in spring 2024.  It will be a modern watersports training and residential centre for Sea Cadets, offering various inshore boating activities. It will also be the new home of the local Birmingham Vernon Sea Cadets, who will learn various skills. The building will be a stunning venue for community groups, schools and charities. The boat station will serve 1,500 sea cadets in the Midlands and offer over 30,000 boating and activity sessions and over 1,000 residential places for local young people. 

Anna, a student, expressed her appreciation for the reservoir improvements. She said, “This is a great place to study and unwind, especially since the upgrade paths. It’s very calm and quiet. It helps me to  clear my mind and focus on my work. I’m looking forward to the summer, especially with the new things coming here soon.”

My trip to Edgbaston Reservoir was a refreshing experience. Whether you’re looking for solitude, a leisurely walk, or a peaceful picnic, this urban oasis has it all. As the seasons change, I can’t wait to come back and see the cherry trees in bloom and the vibrant life that flourishes here.