Five of the best walks in the West Midlands – and a country pub to match
The West Midlands might be famous for its vibrant cities and industrial heritage, but step beyond the hustle and you’ll discover a patchwork of canals, woodland trails, rolling parks and peaceful village paths that make for the perfect countryside escape.
Whether you're craving a family day out, a bit of fresh air with friends, or a solo ramble with the dog, there are plenty of walks in the West Midlands just waiting to be explored.
Thanks to our partnership with AllTrails, planning your route has never been easier, and when the walking’s done, there’s nothing quite like rounding off your adventure at a cosy Chef & Brewer pub. Traditional, welcoming and always ready with a tasty meal and a well-earned drink, we’re here to make every great walk even better.
Birmingham’s Waterside Circular
Right in the heart of Birmingham, there’s a peaceful escape that often takes people by surprise. Birmingham’s Waterside Circular is a 9km loop, weaving together canal towpaths, leafy green pockets and glimpses of the city’s rich industrial past.
It’s perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon, whether you're strolling solo, walking the dog or introducing visitors to the city’s quieter charms. Thanks to surfaced paths, it's an easy route to enjoy all year round.
For anyone seeking pub walks in the West Midlands that blend urban scenery with countryside calm, this route ticks every box.
Pub pairing: Garden House, Edgbaston
Just beyond the city centre sits the Garden House, a welcoming hideaway in leafy Edgbaston. Behind its classic façade, you’ll find a warm atmosphere where locals and visitors settle in for delicious pub food or lighter plates.
On sunny days, the spacious beer garden is the place to be, while inside offers a cosy retreat when the weather turns. It’s dog-friendly, family-ready, and the perfect spot to toast your Birmingham adventure.
Himley, Lydiates Hill and Baggeridge Trail
If you're craving open countryside, woodland paths and far-reaching views, the Himley, Lydiates Hill and Baggeridge Trail offers one of the best walks in the West Midlands. This 5.5km circular route gently leads you through wildflower meadows, ancient woodlands and up to scenic hilltop vantage points.
It's a breath of fresh air for families, nature lovers and those looking for a bit of a challenge. After rain, the paths can turn muddy, so a good pair of walking boots will serve you well.
Pub pairing: Himley House, Himley
Right next to the grand Himley Hall, Himley House is steeped in history of its own. Once a Georgian manor, today it offers a relaxed, elegant space to unwind after your walk.
Settle into one of the inviting armchairs or enjoy the fresh air in the beer garden, depending on the season. From traditional Sunday roasts to seasonal specials, there’s something for every appetite. And with dogs welcome, it’s ideal for the whole family - paws included.
Worcester and Birmingham Canal
Stretching out for a peaceful 15.3km, this out-and-back trail offers one of the more tranquil West Midlands walks. Starting from Redditch Road in Hopwood, you’ll soon find yourself alongside the quiet waters of the Worcester and Birmingham Canal.
Narrowboats glide gently by as the towpath carries you past Alvechurch and through the wooded calm of Shortwood Rough Grounds. The route is wonderfully flat, making it ideal for a steady-paced hike, weekend walk or even a run.
It’s open all year and remains picturesque whatever the season, though a pair of sturdy boots will come in handy in the wetter months when the towpath can become muddy. With fewer crowds along the way, it’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful stretch of countryside - and dogs are welcome too, with some off-lead sections to enjoy.
Pub pairing: Peacock Inn, Forhill
Close to the trail’s start and finish, the Peacock Inn is a natural spot to rest and refuel. Nestled among rolling countryside, the pub has long served as a welcome landmark for walkers and locals alike. Its traditional brick exterior and peaceful rural setting reflect the quiet charm of the surrounding canal walk.
Inside, period features and rustic touches hint at the building’s rich heritage, offering a sense of warmth that invites you to linger over an impressive food menu. With dogs warmly welcomed, this is a pub where muddy boots and wagging tails can feel right at home.
Hillfield Park Circular
Tucked away in Solihull, the Hillfield Park Circular is a peaceful 2.1km loop that’s ideal for a quick dose of fresh air. Taking around half an hour to complete, this easy route winds through quiet green spaces, alongside wildlife ponds and beneath shady trees.
It’s one of the more relaxed West Midlands walks, ideal for families with little ones, casual dog walkers or anyone looking for a simple, calming stroll close to home.
With its flat paths and gentle surroundings, Hillfield Park offers a lovely way to enjoy nature without needing to venture far - a little pocket of countryside in the heart of town.
Pub pairing: Drum & Monkey, Dorridge
Not far from the park, the Drum & Monkey sits quietly in leafy Dorridge, a village known for its woodland edges and relaxed pace of life. The pub itself carries a rustic feel, with timber beams and cosy nooks inside.
Outside, families will appreciate the dedicated play area, offering little ones a chance to burn off some energy while the grown-ups relax nearby. Dating back to its coaching inn roots, it still holds a sense of its old-world character, making it an inviting place to pause after a morning or afternoon outdoors.
Meriden and Berkswell Circular
Known as the traditional centre of England, Meriden offers a countryside walk rich with quiet beauty. The Meriden and Berkswell Circular is a 10.6km loop that winds through farmland, village lanes and colourful wildflower trails.
With its mix of open fields and shady stretches, this route is perfect for a spring or summer ramble. Expect a few uneven sections across fields, so sturdy footwear is a good idea, especially after rain.
If you’re after dog-friendly pubs in the West Midlands combined with peaceful rural paths, this trail makes for a lovely day out with plenty of space for four-legged companions to roam.
Pub pairing: Bear Inn, Berkswell
Set along the Heart of England Way in the peaceful village of Berkswell, the Bear Inn has been welcoming visitors since the 16th century. Steeped in history, its story remains closely tied to the Aldenham House Estate, with roots reaching back to the 1800s.
Inside, centuries-old beams and period features create a timeless, inviting atmosphere, while outside, the spacious beer garden is a lovely spot to relax after your walk.
With its dog-friendly policy, accessible facilities and ample parking, the Bear Inn offers an inviting slice of countryside calm, whatever the occasion.
Planning your West Midlands pub walk
Whether you’re setting off on a gentle loop or a longer countryside trail, a little preparation will help you make the most of your day.
Comfortable walking boots are a must, especially on routes that can turn muddy after rain. Layers are always a wise choice to stay comfortable as the weather shifts, and it’s worth packing a few snacks and a bottle of water for the journey.
All the routes featured are dog-friendly, though some may have local signs guiding you on leads or livestock areas — so keep an eye out along the way.
And as our pubs can get busy on weekends and sunny days, booking ahead is always a good idea to secure your table when it’s time to rest and refuel.
Find the best pubs in the West Midlands
There’s something wonderfully simple about pairing a day outdoors with a visit to a welcoming country pub. Whether you’ve wandered along a peaceful canal, crossed open fields, or strolled through village lanes, you’ll find a wonderful pub nearby, ready to welcome you in.
From rustic countryside inns to cosy village favourites, we take pride in offering homely spaces for all kinds of outings. Explore more great walks in the West Midlands and start planning your next countryside escape - complete with good company, great walks and a perfect pub to round it all off.