By bicycle from Birmingham to Bartley Green

Get ready for a scenic spin from Birmingham’s vibrant city centre out to Bartley Green, a peaceful suburb to the southwest. This 14.3 km route promises a pleasant mix of landscapes—a good chunk (about 59%) follows dedicated cycleways, so you’ll enjoy a safe and relaxed ride most of the way.

You’ll start in Birmingham, famous for its canals and diverse food scene, and gradually swap the city buzz for greener vistas. The ride takes you through patches of quiet roads and some gravelly stretches (so skinny tyres might want to be a bit careful). There’s a moderate climb with a total ascent of around 127 meters, but nothing too dramatic.

Bartley Green is a residential area that sits close to the scenic Bartley Reservoir, a local spot popular with walkers and birdwatchers—well worth a quick detour. With mostly paved and asphalt surfaces, it’s a comfortable jaunt for most bikes. Perfect if you want to escape city life for a bit, without venturing too far from home!