Getting There
Leave the M5 at Junction 1 and take the A41 signed Birmingham, Handsworth, Southbound 1st exit Northbound 4th exit.
Drive past West Bromwich Albion football ground on the right, and take the first left signed Sandwell Valley, Black Country (Park Lane). Note: if you reach a roundabout – you've gone too far.
Pass a cemetery on the right, driving into open countryside and turn right at the sign to Forge Mill Lake and Farm – part of the Sandwell Valley Country Park.
Return to M5 Junction 1
Turn left out of the park and stay on this road until the junction with the A41. Turn right here to return to the motorway.
Tip – in very heavy traffic it is possible to turn left at the junction to circle round a roundabout and return, avoiding the right turn.
Sandwell Valley Lakeside Walk
Length of walk: 35 minutes
Go through the gate at the end of the car park on the right hand side, and you will see a walkers' sign marking the River Tame Way. Walk forward along the concrete road towards the lake, past the welcome sign, cross over the bridge and turn right to walk around part of the lake. The lake is on the left and the River Tame to the right as the path winds around the lake.
There is a steep drop from the river bank to the water here, which is really difficult for dogs to get out from. Water-loving Jem had a massive struggle to get out – and it was hard to grab his collar to haul him up. Suggestion is that you don't let your dog go swimming in the first place!
After 10 minutes or so, the path continues through land given over to the RSPB so dogs need to be on leads here. The RSPB are evidently doing a great job – the flashing of bright plumage and shrilling bird song in early Spring was sensational.
When you reach the head of the lake, turn around to retrace your steps.
Facilities
Free car park – but take care with the innovative speed/size limiting pyramids.
WCs, childrens' play area, snacks, visitor centre, farm demonstrations.
To reach the visitor centre, go to the back left corner of the car park, through a metal gate, and follow the path to the visitor centre and farm shop.
Useful Links
Sandwell Valley Country Park
Visit website
RSPB: Sandwell Valley
Visit website