Birmingham has been granted the status of the first city of nature in Britain: what will be shown to tourists.

Birmingham has been granted the status of the first city of nature in Britain: what will be shown to tourists
Birmingham has been granted the status of the first city of nature in Britain: what will be shown to tourists

According to The Sun: Does Birmingham come to mind when you think of nature? Probably not, but this city in the Midlands has plenty of green spaces.

Recently, Birmingham was awarded the title of the first official 'City of Nature' in the UK by a group that includes the National Trust and Natural England.

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Birmingham is home to nearly 600 parks, and the total area of green spaces exceeds 3,500 hectares—more than any other city of similar size in Europe.

Here, James Marsh tells you where to find them.

CANNON HILL PARK

This park is just two miles from the city center, next to the Edgbaston cricket ground, and is the best family park in Birmingham.

Its soft green slopes feature wildlife conservation areas, tennis courts, mini-golf, and a boating lake.

In summer, the Midlands Arts Centre hosts open-air film screenings, theatrical and musical performances in a small amphitheater.

LICKEY HILLS

Located on the southern edge of the city, Lickey Hills Country Park offers stunning views.

Since Birmingham is quite flat, it is one of the few places where you can enjoy the landscape from a height.

The park's tangled forests are perfect for walks, and from the viewpoint near the Visitor Center, the misty silhouette of Birmingham is visible.

From Beacon Hill, there is also a view of the rocky Malvern Hills, which are said to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien in creating some landscapes in 'The Lord of the Rings.'

BOTANICAL GARDENS

The four Victorian greenhouses on 15 acres of Birmingham Botanical Gardens showcase exotic plants from around the world. It's a cozy place for a winter visit.

Outside, the green slope is home to Alpine and Japanese gardens, and in summer, film nights are often held here.

If you're hungry, the Medicine café on site is one of the best in Birmingham.

WINTERBOURNE HOUSE AND GARDEN

Located near the University of Birmingham, Winterbourne House and Garden is a rare example of an early 20th-century country villa and garden.

While the cozy interior is impressive, the true beauty is represented by the gardens here.

Start with a stroll through the shaded Nut Walk and colorful flowerbeds, and then take a look at the greenhouses where plants from China, North, and South America are displayed.

There's also a lovely café.

ASTON PARK

If you've visited the famous Villa Park stadium, you've probably walked past this grand park.

The centerpiece of the park is the 400-year-old Aston Hall—this beautiful Jacobean mansion is open for visits from Friday to Sunday.

The impressive Long Gallery and King Charles's room are the most luxurious places. Don't forget to check out the famous bullet hole in the stairs left by a cannonball during the English Civil War.

HIGHBURY PARK

Kings Heath is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city, filled with fantastic bars and restaurants.

But if you're looking for a peaceful retreat, Highbury Park is a great choice.

Its winding paths pass through lush woods and lakes, leading to the elegant Victorian mansion, Highbury Hall.

This large red brick building was once home to politician Joseph Chamberlain, the father of future Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain.

Birmingham, with such a number of green spaces, demonstrates a significant contribution to environmental conservation and residents' recreation. The official recognition as a 'City of Nature' underscores the importance of green spaces in urban life, as well as their impact on residents' quality of life.

This title will certainly set the stage for new initiatives to improve the environmental situation and encourage residents to actively visit parks and recreational areas, which will positively impact the health and well-being of the community.


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