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Lickey Hills Country Park adventures

Lickey Hills Country Park Adventures

Lickey Hills Country Park is a significant green space offering scenic hills, woodlands, and panoramic views just south of Birmingham, England. It is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying natural landscapes close to urban areas.

524
Acres Protected
approx. 20
Miles of Trails
500,000+
Annual Visitors
1919
Year Established

About Lickey Hills Country Park

 

Lickey Hills Country Park covers approximately 524 acres of mixed woodland, heathland, and grassland set on a sandstone ridge that rises above the surrounding urban area of the West Midlands. The park features varied geology, including some of the oldest exposed rock formations in the region, such as quartzite and volcanic rocks dating back over 300 million years. The hills reach a height of 298 meters at Beacon Hill, which provides expansive views over Birmingham and the surrounding countryside. Ecologically, the park supports a range of habitats including mature broadleaf woodlands dominated by oak and birch, heath areas with heather, and pockets of ancient woodland, providing habitat for diverse wildlife including birds such as woodpeckers and kestrels, as well as foxes and badgers. Historically, the hills have been used since prehistoric times, with evidence of Iron Age hill forts and quarrying areas visible today. The park was purchased for public use in the early 20th century and has since become a valued recreational area for walking, picnicking, birdwatching, and mountain biking on its well-maintained trails. Popular landmarks within the park include the Lickey Hills Visitor Centre, Jubilee Viewpoint, and Old Rose & Crown pub, offering visitors both nature immersion and amenities. Lickey Hills Country Park provides an accessible outdoor escape for locals and visitors seeking scenic beauty combined with historical interest within easy reach of Birmingham.

Highlights

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Beacon Hill vantage point with panoramic views over Birmingham and Worcestershire

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Diverse habitats including heathland, ancient woodlands, and grasslands

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Remains of Iron Age hill forts and historic quarry sites

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Popular mountain biking routes weaving through forest and hills

Notable Natural Features

Beacon Hill

The highest point in the park offering sweeping views across the West Midlands and into the Cotswolds.

Lickey Hills Visitor Centre

Provides educational exhibits, maps, and information on the park's natural and cultural history.

Iron Age Hill Fort

Ancient earthworks evidencing prehistoric human activity on the hilltops.