Highlight • Lake
Road cycling
4.9
(70)
Cycling
4.6
(23)
The Bartley Reservoir Dam stands as a significant landmark in Bartley Green, Birmingham, within the West Midlands of England. This impressive structure holds back Bartley Reservoir, a vital man-made body of water primarily constructed to supply drinking water to the city of Birmingham. Situated at an elevation of approximately 232 meters, the reservoir and its dam offer a blend of utilitarian purpose and natural beauty, making it a key feature in the local landscape.
Visitors consistently praise the tranquil atmosphere…
Tips
April 22, 2019
Road cycling
May 5, 2020
Road cycling
April 24, 2019
Road cycling
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 2 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Bartley Reservoir Dam
4.4
(5)
116
riders
77.9km
04:03
880m
880m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(2)
97
riders
63.2km
03:20
700m
700m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
75
riders
71.8km
03:34
880m
880m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 230 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Tuesday 17 March
14°C
7°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
While the exact perimeter path length can vary slightly depending on your chosen route, a full circuit around Bartley Reservoir is generally around 4-5 kilometers (2.5-3 miles). Most walkers can complete this in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours at a moderate pace, making it a good option for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk.
Generally, no specific permits are required for public access to the walking trails around Bartley Reservoir Dam. It is managed by Severn Trent Water, and visitors are welcome to enjoy the public footpaths. However, for watersports activities at the Bartley Sailing Club or Andrew Simpson Charity Midlands Watersports Centre, specific memberships or bookings will be necessary.
Parking at Bartley Reservoir can be limited, especially during peak times. There are a few pull-in spots along the roads surrounding the reservoir, but these can fill up quickly. Community tips suggest that arriving earlier in the day, particularly on weekends or during good weather, is advisable. Some visitors also mention cycling to designated grass landing areas if they plan for a picnic, indicating that main parking areas might be scarce.
Yes, Bartley Reservoir offers several family-friendly walking paths, particularly the perimeter routes which are generally flat and easy. While some areas might be unpaved, many sections are suitable for pushchairs. The tranquil environment and opportunities for birdwatching make it an enjoyable outing for families. For a more immersive nature experience, Bromwich Wood Local Nature Reserve nearby also offers diverse flora.
Dogs are generally welcome on the public footpaths around Bartley Reservoir. However, as it is a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation and a drinking water reservoir, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, to protect wildlife and maintain water quality. Always clean up after your dog to help preserve the natural environment for all visitors.
While Bartley Reservoir itself is primarily a natural and recreational area, there are cafes and pubs in the surrounding Bartley Green and Frankley areas. For specific recommendations, it's best to check local listings. Accommodation options, ranging from guesthouses to hotels, can be found in the wider Birmingham area, which is easily accessible from the reservoir.
Bartley Reservoir is renowned for its diverse wildlife, particularly birds, due to its status as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation. You can spot a wide variety of wildfowl and migratory birds throughout the year. Autumn and winter are often considered the best times for birdwatching, as migratory species make their stopovers. The reservoir holds cultural significance in the birdwatching community, with naturalist Bill Oddie having conducted early observations here.
The terrain around Bartley Reservoir Dam is generally considered easy to moderate. The perimeter paths are relatively flat, with the reservoir itself situated at an elevation of approximately 232 meters. While there are no significant climbs directly around the reservoir, some surrounding trails, especially those leading into ancient woodlands like Bromwich Wood, might have gentle inclines. Comfortable footwear is always recommended for exploring the various trails.
Bartley Reservoir remains a popular destination in winter. It's an excellent time for birdwatching, as many migratory species visit. The walking paths offer crisp, scenic strolls, and the tranquil atmosphere can be particularly appealing. While watersports might be less frequent due to colder temperatures, the Andrew Simpson Charity Midlands Watersports Centre may still offer some activities. Always check local conditions and opening times before visiting.
Bartley Reservoir Dam was constructed between 1925 and 1930 to meet the increasing demand for drinking water for Birmingham's growing population. It was built alongside the Frankley Reservoir and is supplied with water from the Elan Valley in Mid-Wales via the 73-mile-long Elan Aqueduct. This engineering marvel was crucial in providing clean water, helping to prevent water-borne diseases that were prevalent during the industrial revolution.
Bartley Reservoir is located in Bartley Green, Birmingham, and is accessible via local bus services. Several bus routes operate in the surrounding areas, with stops within walking distance of the reservoir. For the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules, it's advisable to consult local public transport websites or apps.