Kingsbury Water Park
Sightseeing attraction | Sutton Coldfield | England | United Kingdom
Outdoor activities in nature park
Kingsbury Water Park in Sutton Coldfield, England, is a vast nature and leisure park spanning over 240 hectares and is one of the most popular attractions in the West Midlands. Located near the town of Sutton Coldfield in Warwickshire district, the park consists of 15 interconnected lakes that were formed from former gravel pits. These waters shape the landscape and provide an idyllic setting for outdoor activities, relaxation, and nature observation. The park is a paradise for families, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts alike, and has become an essential part of the region since its creation in the 1930s.
Family-friendly attractions at park
The history of Kingsbury Water Park began when gravel extraction in the area ceased and the resulting pits were filled with water, creating a landscape of lakes. Over the following decades, the land was taken over by the local authorities and converted into a public park accessible to the population. Today, the park is managed by the Warwickshire County Council, which takes care of maintaining the paths, facilities, and ecological balance. The original industrial use has left traces that now harmonize with the natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Birdwatching spots in Kingsbury Park
A key feature of the park is the numerous lakes that serve various purposes. Some are reserved for anglers, who can find one of the largest and most diverse fisheries in the Midlands here, while others are used by water sports clubs for activities such as sailing, jet skiing, or model boating. For visitors looking to be active, there is the option to rent bicycles and explore the miles of well-maintained paths winding through the park. These trails pass by hidden corners, offer views of the water, and allow for enjoying the expansive landscape to the fullest. For the more daring, there is also a horse riding trail along the park's southern edge.
Recreational activities in Sutton Coldfield
Families will find a wealth of activities at Kingsbury Water Park. Two adventure playgrounds, including one near the information center and a larger one at Far Leys, offer swings, slides, climbing frames, and other play equipment to keep children entertained for hours. The Echills Wood Railway, a miniature train operated by volunteers, is another highlight popular with younger guests. This railway runs through a section of the park and is regularly expanded, with new tunnels serving as shelter for bats. In the summer, seasonal attractions such as donkey rides, pedal boat rentals, and bouncy castles complement the offerings.
Fishing opportunities in nature reserve
Nature lovers will also be delighted. The park is a hotspot for birdwatching, with several bird hides strategically placed around the lakes. Species such as swans, ducks, herons, and occasionally rare birds like grebes can be spotted here. The wetlands and woodland areas also host a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a range of insects that make the park an ecologically valuable area. A permanent orienteering course, which can be used with maps from the information center, invites visitors to explore nature in a playful way.
The park also offers cultural and social experiences. The information center serves as a starting point for visitors and, in addition to maps and advice, offers a small gift shop with sustainable products and locally made items. An on-site café serves fresh sandwiches, hot meals, and drinks, while picnic areas along the lakes invite for relaxed meals in nature. Broomey Croft Children's Farm, a separate area within the park, allows children to pet friendly animals like goats, sheep, and donkeys and learn more about farm life. Additionally, events take place in the park throughout the year, from organized walks to children's festivals led by rangers.
Kingsbury Water Park is designed to be accessible, with paved paths and facilities such as disabled toilets, although some remote areas may be more challenging for wheelchair users to access. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash in certain areas such as playgrounds and picnic zones. The park places a strong emphasis on sustainability and safety, with strict rules in place, such as the prohibition of private watercraft or drones, to protect nature and visitors.
