Route developed by: HT / Checked by : PW
Edgbaston Reservoir was created in the 1820s to provide water for the city’s canal systems: not drinking water! It was designed by Thomas Telford, who also straightened the nearby canals. Prior to the reservoir the land was parkland, forming part of the same open space as Summerfield Park.
[1] As you exit the Reservoir Lodge, walk towards the water and then turn right. This path takes you underneath the Tower Ballroom, past the Sea Scouts premises and the Buddhist Temple. Carry on along the path and across the dam. At the end of the dam is the Sailing Club on your left, and on your right a path to Icknield Port Road.
[2] Take this path and walk down to Icknield Port Road. You will pass through a narrow entrance gate that may not be suitable for wheelchair users, or large pushchairs. Turn left and cross the road at the pedestrian crossing. Bear left and then immediately right into Coplow Street. Continue along the partly pedestrianised street and go straight on at the staggered crossroads. At the end of Coplow Street there is a T-junction with Northbrook Street.
[3] Turn to your left along the tarmac path that cuts across a grassed area, heading back roughly the way you have just walked. The path continues through new housing and crosses the quiet Barford Road. Continue straight ahead, past Barford Primary School on your left. Cross busy Cknield Port Road using the pedestrian crossing and into Summerfield Park.
[4] After a right hand bend, turn left at the T-junction. Carry straight along this path, ignoring those that turn left and right. You will pass a crossroads, at which you should carry straight on to the end of the park. Ignore the path that branches left, passing under a bridge and keep straight on exiting the park onto Selwyn Road. At the park gate turn left along Selwyn Road. At the junction with Gillott Road, cross and turn left. You will pass a wall on your right after which is the entrance to Edgbaston Reservoir. Pass through the gate and follow the path to the water, over a bridge. Turn right along the path and continue along the edge of the reservoir.
[5] As you walk around the reservoir you will pass through wooded and grassy areas, all of which help to form habitats for birds, bats and newts. After you pass a set of metal railings on your left you will pass the exit for Rotton Park Road. Go past this and walk through another wooded area. You will soon pass the Rowing Club and come to a traffic barrier at the start of the car park. Walk through the car park to return to the reservoir lodge.