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] Coming out of the Reservoir Lodge, turn left and follow the path to the end of the car park. There is then a zigzag path leading past Clipper View.
[2] Continue past the Rowing Club into a section of wooded ground. Pass some railings on your right, following a sharp bend you cross one of the small streams that feeds into the reservoir, maintaining it’s water level. Just pass this is a path out to Rotton Park Road.
[3] Carry on past the path, and continue around the reservoir, crossing another inlet stream. Just past this bridge is the path out to Gillott Road. Keep on the reservoir path towards the Sailing Club, and just past this the start of the dam.
As you cross the dam if you look down you can see part of James Brindley’s original canal network, the Icknield Park Loop.
[4] At the end of the dam is the main spillway that carries away excess water during heavy rain. Just past the spillway is a Buddhist temple, the Birmingham Peace Lodge. Follow the path right past the Sea Scout premises and underneath the projecting Tower Ballroom. Carry on, finishing back the Reservoir Lodge.