Olton Loop (15.26km)

On this trail from Shirley you’ll follow the tranquil towpath of the Stratford- upon-Avon Canal, cross Christmas tree plantations, farmland and forests, and skirt Dickens Heath before reaching Earlswood Lakes.

This trail takes you through Solihull town centre with lovely views of St. Alphege Church, through two beautiful parks and along a stretch of the River Blythe. Keep an eye out for the 15th century Manor House on the high street, the Joseph Boehm statue in Malvern Park, and the blue tits, woodpeckers, long-tailed tits and nuthatches at Parkridge Nature Reserve.

This trail is a short walk between the stations of Shirley and Whitlock’s End, passing by Dicken’s Heath. The route takes you through farmland, a Christmas Tree plantation and crosses the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal.

This trail from Olton follows the towpath along the Grand Union Canal to Tyseley, before turning on to the River Cole and taking you through the four mile long Shire Country Park – Tolkein country – and on into Shirley. You can detour at a couple of points to finish at Hall Green or Yardley Wood stations. As you leave Olton station you’ll see the Saxon King on Horse stainless steel sculpture.

This trail takes you through areas of Solihull’s suburbia and countryside, crossing the M42. Along this trail you’ll also cross the River Blythe, one of the richest rivers in lowland England and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

This trail is a linear walk between the stations of Wythall and Shirley. A wander through the pasture and meadows around the outer Shirley suburbs of Major’s Green and Hollywood (once a wood with some holly in it – no connection with Los Angeles!). Eyes peeled for the Iron Age hillfort!
If spending a little time in Wythall, check out the extensive collections of buses and battery electric vehicles at the Transport Museum or explore the 37 acres of Wythall Park. On the trail you’ll pass the Berry Mound Iron Age Hill Fort and nearby Berry Mound Pastures, a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

A walk starting and returning to Wythall Station, with opportunities to explore further. Fifty species of birds breed here in the woods. Wildflowers to be seen include bluebell, lily of the valley, cow-wheat, and bilberry. The Earlswood Lakes were constructed in the 1820s to provide water to the Stratford upon Avon canal. The labour force included prisoners of war from the Napoleonic wars.

Easy to moderate loop along the lakes and into the woods, ideal for wildlife and train spotting. An alternative and easier route is available avoiding the woodland part.