10 brilliant places to enjoy autumn in the West Midlands, including Cupcake Lane in Wolverhampton
Summer might be on the way out, but that does not mean you have to say goodbye to the great outdoors until next year.
The autumn months may bring chillier weather, but it also brings a beautiful blend of colours to the scenery across the West Midlands, and the Express and Star has compiled a list of some of the best places to visit to make the most of nature.
While thousands upon thousands of people visit our region's beauty spots each and every week, often times people miss out on some places that are absolutely worth the visit in our eyes.
So, to help encourage our readers to make the most of these areas of natural beauty this autumn, here's our list of ten lovely and local spots that are brilliant to visit during the next few months.
This list is in no particular order.
1. Bratch Locks, Bratch Lane, Wombourne
Take a walk around the picturesque and historic Bratch pumping station and Bratch Locks. This amazing location includes exciting nature trails and plenty of opportunities to spot some wildlife, including the fantastic otters.
2. Kinver Edge, Stourbridge
With quirky homes carved into sandstone, Kinver Edge is a must-visit walk in the West Midlands. It's Iron Age hillfort, heathland and woodland escarpment with viewpoints over Shropshire, Staffordshire and Worcestershire provide the perfect autumn sunset photo opportunity too.
3. Walsall Arboretum, 139 Broadway N, Walsall
This rural retreat at the heart of Walsall town centre opened in 1874, and spans 170 acres including Hatherton Lake, the country park and the extension. The park includes gardens, green spaces, play areas, and sports facilities too.
4. Himley Plantation, Dudley
Himley Plantation in Wombourne, UK offers a peaceful woodland walk with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a tranquil stroll through the woodlands and take in the beauty of nature, crunching those autumn leaves as you walk.
5. Baggeridge Park, Gospel End Road, Dudley
A beautiful and popular area of countryside, providing an ideal setting for those looking for wildlife and those wishing to enjoy some peace and quiet in the great outdoors. It also offers a large playground for the children, as well as a cosy park tea room.
6. Haden Hill House, Halesowen Road, Cradley Heath
This grand Victorian location offers plenty of history, culture and amazing walks to help create the perfect day. Get involved with the venue's hands-on experiences, or take a walk around the lovely grounds as you enjoy a spot of sunshine.
7. Bantock House Museum and Park, Finchfield Road, Wolverhampton
Restored to its Edwardian glory, Bantock House is a popular destination for families set within 43 acres of parkland and surrounded by delightful formal gardens. Whether it's a walk around the grounds, a visit to the museum or just an hour or two on the playground, Bantock is a guaranteed win this autumn.
8. The Wyre Forest
Wyre Forest, the largest woodland National Nature Reserve in the country, is bursting with life this autumn. Over 75 square miles of woodland and several popular walks, it is sure to be another popular destination for hikers this autumn.
9. Cupcake Lane, Smestow Nature Reserve, Wolverhampton
Whether you're sipping tea by the fireplace or enjoying the weather outdoors, Cupcake Lane is the perfect spot to relax and treat yourself. Located on the grounds of the old Tettenhall Station, this spot blends history and nature, and is the most 'hidden' gem on this list.
10. Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
With way marked trails for woodland walks, children’s play areas, Go Ape, orienteering trails and even a dog activity trail, you will not be stuck for something to do at Cannock Chase Forest this autumn.
