We are the South Birmingham Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Astrid L
The walk is in 2 parts: First we'll see the pithead of the former Hamstead Colliery, the monument to the 1908 mining disaster and we'll visit the interesting Mining Museum at Tanhouse Library (where there are toilets) to learn more.
Then we'll walk through Sandwell Valley RSPB reserve (toilets) with the opportunity to visit their hide to see the birdlife close-up. We'll have our coffee break at Forge Mill Farm Visitor Centre (more toilets). We return via the Tame Valley Way. Along the river there will be banks of flowers and woods full of birdsong. There is also some lane walking.
There are no stiles but a short ascent up to the canal near the beginning of the walk along a road and steps with rails. For those who cannot manage this, I can show them how to meet us at Tanhouse Library (a flat walk).
New walkers are welcome.
Start: Hamstead Train Station, Rocky Lane, Hamstead, Perry Barr, B42 1NJ. There are no facilities at Hamstead Station. From the South Birmingham area, take the 9.32 WM Railways from Selly Oak Station which arrives at New Street Station at 9.42. Go upstairs to the Blue Zone and take the 10.00 WM Railways from platform 2A direction Walsall which arrives at Hamstead at 10.15.
